NOTICE: Before you install new memory modules, download the most recent BIOS for your computer from the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
DDR2 Memory Overview
Dual-channel DDR2 memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size. If the DDR2 memory modules are not installed with the same amount of memory in each channel, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in performance. See the label in the upper-right corner of the module to determine the module's capacity.
NOTE: Always install DDR2 memory modules in the order indicated on the system board.
The recommended memory configurations are:
A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM1 and DIMM2
or
A memory module installed in connector DIMM1
or
For the mini tower, desktop, and small form factor computers, a pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM1 and DIMM2 and another matched pair installed in connectors DIMM3 and DIMM4
NOTICE: Do not install ECC memory modules. Doing so may cause the system not to boot or affect performance.
Be sure to install a single memory module in DIMM1, the connector closest to the processor, before you install modules in the other connectors.
NOTE: The ultra small form factor computer has only two slots which are considered an interleaved pair. The mini tower, desktop, and small form factor computers have four slots.
A
matched pair of memory modules in connectors DIMM1 and DIMM2 (white securing clips)
B
matched pair of memory modules in connectors DIMM3 and DIMM4 (black securing clips).
Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations
This computer supports a maximum of 4 GB of memory when you use four 1-GB DIMMs or two 2-GB DIMMs. Current operating systems, such as Microsoft® Windows® XP, can only use a maximum of 4 GB of address space; however, the amount of memory available to the operating system is less than 4 GB. Certain components within the computer require address space in the 4-GB range. Any address space reserved for these components cannot be used by computer memory.
The following components require memory address space:
System ROM
APIC(s)
Integrated PCI devices, such as network connectors and SCSI controllers
PCI cards
Graphics card
PCI Express cards (if applicable)
At start-up, the BIOS identifies the components that require address space. The BIOS dynamically calculates the amount of reserved address space required. The BIOS then subtracts the reserved address space from 4 GB to determine the amount of usable space.
If the total installed computer memory is less than the usable space, all installed computer memory is available for use only by the operating system.
If the total installed computer memory is equal to or greater than the usable address space, a small portion of installed memory is available for use by the operating system.
Removing Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade, keep them separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not start properly. You should install your original memory modules in pairs either in connectors DIMM1 and DIMM2 or connectors DIMM3 and DIMM4.
NOTICE: Removing memory modules from DIMM2 and DIMM4 on the desktop computer requires you to remove the optical drive (see "Drives"). Failure to do so may cause damage to the memory module and the DIMM socket.
NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.
Carefully press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
1
memory module
2
securing clip (2)
Remove the memory module.
Replacing/Adding Additional Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.
The computer detects that the new memory does not match the existing configuration
information and generates the following message:
The amount of system memory has changed. Strike the F1 key to continue, F2 to run the setup utility
Press <F2> to enter system setup and check the value for System Memory.
The computer should have changed the value of System Memory to reflect the newly installed memory. Verify the new total. If it is correct, skip to step 9.
If the memory total is incorrect, turn off and disconnect your computer and devices from
their electrical outlets. Open the computer cover and check the installed memory modules to
ensure that they are seated properly in their sockets. Then repeat steps 5, 6, and 7.
When the System Memory total is correct, press <Esc> to exit system setup.
Run the Dell Diagnostics to verify that the memory modules are operating properly.
