Archive for the ‘Tutorials’ Category

Memory Spec Terms

Tuesday, December 1st, 2009

NON-ECC/Non-parity – Most desktop and laptop computers take NON-ECC or Non-parity memory.

ECC/Parity – ECC or parity modules look for errors in data and are most often found in servers and other mission-critical applications used by large networks and businesses.

Unbuffered – Most PCs and workstations use unbuffered memory which is faster than registered memory.

Registered/Buffered – Registered or buffered modules delay all information transferred to the module by one clock cycle. This type of memory is primarily used in servers.

Fully buffered – Designed for next-generation servers, features an advanced memory buffer.

CL – CAS (column address strobe) latency, which is the number of clock cycles it takes before data starts to flow after a command is received. Lower CL is faster. Modules with different CL can be mixed on a system, but the system will only run at the highest (slowest) CL.

Component configuration – (For example: 64Meg x 64) Indicates the size of the memory chip components on the module.

Voltage – For example 2.6V. Indicates the power used by the module. The lower the better.

How To Install Memory into a Desktop Computer – PC or Mac

Wednesday, July 29th, 2009

Step 1 : Grounding

1. Unplug any cords in the back of the computer that is hindering you from accessing the computer. Do not unplug the power cord. (This prevents static electricity from building in the desktop)

2. Unscrew any screws or unclip any clips needed to take off the cover of the desktop.

3. Touch the power supply for 1 second.

Step 2 : Taking out the Memory

1. Follow the steps in grounding.

2. Notice the clips on the left and the right of the memory module. Push down on these clips until the memory “pops” out.

3. Place the memory into an anti-static bag.

Step 3 : Putting in the Memory

1. Follow the steps in grounding.

2. Make sure the clips for the memory modules are in the down position.

3. Match up the pins of the memory module with the slot on the motherboard.

4. Push down hard with your thumbs until the clips “click.”

Step 4 : Finalizing Install

1. Place the cover of the computer back on the computer. Screw back any screws or clips on the computer.

2. Plug any cords unplugged in the beginning before starting up your computer.

3. Start up your computer. When your operating system is fully loaded, check to see if the memory modules installed show up.

4. If in the event the computer does not start, you may have installed the memory modules incorrectly. Repeat the steps above in taking out memory and putting in memory to make sure they are installed correctly.

5. If this does not solve the problem and your computer still does not turn on, please contact the company you bought the memory from and describe to them what is going on with your computer. They will be able to give you replacements for any defective part.