Howdy whitlecout-ga,
You will need the Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the original of the PDF
document referenced below. If you do not have it, you can download it
at no cost from the Adobe website.
http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html
The following PDF file has all the instructions you need in order to
add a memory module of your Dell Inspiron 5100 laptop computer.
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/ins5100/en/i5100-om.pdf
First, the safety instructions from that manual.
"...
- Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent scratching
the computer cover.
- Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and then shut
down the computer ...
- Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.
- Wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then disconnect any attached devices.
- Remove any installed PC Cards and the battery.
NOTICE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching
pins and contacts.
Ground yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer.
Continue to ground yourself periodically during this procedure."
Close the lid on your computer, then turn your computer over so the
bottom of the computer is on top.
Towards the center of the bottom of your laptop, there will be a hatch
and it will be closed with a small phillips screw. This will be the
"memory module cover" and it might be marked with the letter "M" next
to the fastening screw.
You will need a small "phillips" style screwdriver, which has a "cross"
shaped tip instead of a flat blade, to unscrew it. The screw is of a
"captive" screw type, which means it will stay connected to the cover
when you unscrew it. Just unscrew it until it turns freely.
It might take some slight pressure to lift the cover once the screw is
loosened, as well as some slight pressure to put the lid back in place
once you are finished. Do not force it!
The instructions in the manual continue:
"If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module:
- Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on
each end of the memory module connector until the module pops up.
- Remove the module from the connector.
Ground yourself and install the new memory module.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may
not boot properly. No error message indicates this failure.
- Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the
connector slot.
- Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and rotate
the module down until it clicks into place. If you do not feel the click,
remove the module and reinstall it.
Replace the cover.
NOTICE: If the memory module cover is difficult to close, remove the
module and reinstall it.
Forcing the cover to close may damage your computer.
- Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to
your computer and an electrical outlet.
- Turn on the computer.
As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically
updates the system configuration information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer, click the Start
button, click Help and Support, and then click Computer Information."
I suggest you look at the illustrations that are in the manual as they
show everthing in usable detail. You will want to refer to the sections
marked "Bottom View" and "Memory" for the needed views and instructions.
If you need any clarification, feel free to ask.
Search strategy:
Did various searches on the Dell Support web site.
http://support.dell.com/
Looking Forward, denco-ga - Google Answers Researcher |
