Populating SODIMM sockets
There are two SODIMM sockets on the system board, with one socket per channel. The sockets are labeled
DIMM1 and DIMM3. The DIMM1 socket operates in memory channel B. The DIMM3 socket operates in memory
channel A.
Table 4-5
Memory module socket locations
Item
Description
System Board Label
Socket Color
1
SODIMM1 socket, channel B
DIMM1
Black
2
SODIMM3 socket, channel A
DIMM3
Black
The system automatically operates in single-channel mode, dual-channel mode, or flex mode, depending on
how the SODIMMs are installed.
●
The system operates in single-channel mode if the SODIMM sockets are populated in one-channel only.
●
The system operates in a higher-performing dual-channel mode if the memory capacity of the SODIMM in
Channel A is equal to the memory capacity of the SODIMM in Channel B.
●
The system operates in flex mode if the memory capacity of the SODIMM in Channel A is not equal to the
memory capacity of the SODIMM in Channel B. In flex mode, the channel populated with the least amount
of memory describes the total amount of memory assigned to dual channel and the remainder is assigned
to single channel. If one channel has more memory than the other, assign the larger amount to channel A.
●
In any mode, the maximum operational speed is determined by the slowest SODIMM in the system.
Replacing SODIMMs
IMPORTANT:
You must disconnect the power cord and wait approximately 30 seconds for the power to drain
before adding or removing memory modules. Regardless of the power state, voltage is always supplied to the
memory modules as long as the computer is plugged into an active AC outlet. Adding or removing memory
modules while voltage is present may cause irreparable damage to the memory modules or system board.
IMPORTANT:
When handling a memory module, be careful not to touch any of the contacts. Doing so may
damage the module.
The memory module sockets have gold-plated metal contacts. When upgrading the memory, it is important to
use memory modules with gold-plated metal contacts to prevent corrosion, oxidation, or both, resulting from
having incompatible metals in contact with each other.
Static electricity can damage the electronic components of the computer or optional cards. Before beginning
these procedures, ensure that you are discharged of static electricity by briefly touching a grounded metal
object.
Before removing the memory modules, follow these steps:
1.
Prepare the computer for disassembly (
Preparation for disassembly on page 16
).
2.
Remove the access panel
Remove the memory modules:
1.
To remove a SODIMM, press outward on the two latches on each side of the SODIMM (1) then pull the
SODIMM out of the socket (2).
26
Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures
