How to Increase the RAM of a Dell Dimension

by Joel Douglas
RAM stores information temporarily.

RAM stores information temporarily.

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Dell's Dimension line of desktop computers features advanced multimedia capabilities for watching movies, playing games and editing video. These PCs use high-performance dual data rate memory, which boosts the performance of memory-intensive programs, reduces power consumption and lets you multitask faster. Add more RAM to your Dell Dimension to further increase performance. You can install up to 3GB of RAM if you're running a 32-bit version of Windows, or up to 16GB on the 64-bit Home Premium version of Windows Vista or 7.

Step 1

Turn off the Dell Dimension. Unplug the monitor, power cable and peripherals.

Step 2

Lay the computer on its side. Lift the side panel release latch near the back of the case and remove the side panel.

Step 3

Pull back the two white hooks on either end of an open DIMM slot on the motherboard. The DIMM slots are long and thin, and are typically located near the processor. You can install the RAM into any available DIMM slot.

Step 4

Remove the memory stick carefully from its anti-static package. Handle the stick along the edges, being careful not to touch the memory chips on each side.

Step 5

Turn the memory stick to orient it with the DIMM slot. Align the notch near the center of the memory stick with the notch on the DIMM slot. Place the RAM stick in the slot.

Step 6

Press gently on both ends of the memory stick until it slides firmly into the slot. The white locking hooks on either end of the DIMM slot will snap into place when the RAM is fully inserted into the slot.

Step 7

Stand the case upright. Replace the side panel. Plug the monitor, power cable and peripherals back into the computer. Turn it on. Windows will automatically detect the new RAM and make it available.

Tip

  • Purchase DDR memory rated at the same front-side bus speed as your Dell Dimension's processor. Check the user manual to determine what speed of RAM it requires.
  • Some Dell Dimension models require you to install DDR memory chips in equal pairs. Check the user manual to determine whether your model requires one or two sticks of RAM.

Warning

  • Wear an anti-static wrist strap when installing hardware to protect your computer from static electricity.

About the Author

Joel Douglas has been writing professionally since 2004. In addition to running a music website for several years he also has copy-edited books on social philosophy and produced training materials for a public library. Douglas has a Master of Arts in English.

Photo Credits

  • Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images