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Upgrade Guide

Installing new memory in your machine, step by step.

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Step 2: Locate the Memory

Unplug your PC and remove its cover. If you're facing the front of the system, you'll typically find the memory slots on the left side of the motherboard, toward the front of the case; however, they may be hidden under cables or even under hardware such as a hard drive mounting bay. If you need to disconnect cables or temporarily remove hardware, keep close track of what's connected where and how it all fits back together.

Most PCs come equipped with slots for 72-pin SIMMs. Older PCs (especially those with 486 processors) may use 30-pin modules. The 72-pin SIMMs are 4.25 inches long, while 30-pin SIMMs measure about 3.5 inches; 168-pin DIMMs are 5.25 inches long and usually have memory chips on both sides.

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