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You are here: MacNN Forums > Hardware - Troubleshooting and Discussion > Consumer Hardware & Components > installing RAM on an iMac DV400 SE 13GB

installing RAM on an iMac DV400 SE 13GB
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Fresh-Faced Recruit
Join Date: Apr 2001
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Apr 14, 2001, 07:23 AM
 
I have bought 256Mb RAM (168 pin 3.3v PC100 SDRAM DIMM) for my Graphite iMac 400DV SE. It does not seem to fit properly into the lower slot, the upper slot already appears to have RAM installed in it, the clips do not 'automatically' go back, do I need to take a hammer to it to get it in properly, or could there be something wrong with the RAM, clips or iMac?

I have followed all the instructions to the letter, but it really doesn't look as if the RAM can go in any further without using excessive force. The iMac did not register any more RAM when it was turned back on, can anyone help?

Thanks
     
Clinically Insane
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Apr 14, 2001, 08:24 AM
 
The lower slot will only accomodate low profile RAM, I think - or was that only with the older iMacs?
Is it with the rev 2's as well?

Well, assuming it is, you can only put LP or "low profile" RAM in the lower slot, and any kind in the upper slot... sorry...

Don't take my word though, I may well be wrong.


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Mac Elite
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Apr 14, 2001, 08:39 AM
 
I added RAM to a bondi iMac and the fit was definitely "snug". I had to rock the module a bit, pushing straight down on one corner and then the other. Eventually the clips snapped into place with a satisfying clunk. How far are the notches in the RAM module from the clips?

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iDisk: rseijas
Homepage: homepage.mac.com/rseijas
     
Senior User
Join Date: Jul 2000
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Apr 14, 2001, 08:53 AM
 
Both Cipher and Rambo are referring to the original design of the iMac. Those used SO DIMMs while the new DV generation iMacs use full sized DIMMs. There is no lower slot underneath the open slot as with the first generation, just two slots next to each other. To the best of my knowledge, there is no issue with chip size, as long as it's 168-pin, PC100, etc., etc.

It could be just a very tight fit. Give it a little effort, but not so much that you think you will break the chip or machine. If that doesn't work, move the original RAM to the other slot and try your new RAM in the first slot. If that doesn't work, you may need to exchange the RAM for a new chip. All of this is assuming you have the notches in the chip lined up with the slot.
     
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Apr 14, 2001, 08:55 AM
 
On the iMac slot loading it dosen't matter which slot you put the new memory in and it is a very tight fit.Just make sure it that the notches on the bottom are aligned correctly and push until the clips snap back.The first time I installed memory in an iMac I was sure that I had the wrong size chip but in finally snapped into place.
     
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Apr 14, 2001, 09:26 AM
 
Just to reassure you, RAM modules can require a surprising amount of force to seat. As the man said, make sure everything is lined up. Make sure the clips are fully opened. I find it helpful to press down with two thumbs, one towards each end of the module (if you do one end at a time, the other end tends to pop back out). Press straight down, evenly but very firmly. You'll get the hang of it after a couple of successes.
     
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Apr 15, 2001, 07:15 PM
 
Thanks for the tips, I finally had success this morning, I gently eased it in, and finally the clips snapped into place with a very satisfying click. It was good to have the reassurance that slight force was necessary, but luckily I didn't need a hammer!

Anyone need any RAM fitting?
     
Naz
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Sep 6, 2001, 08:57 PM
 
same problem here...

this thread helps (I feel much better)... I'm about to shut down my iMac and try again...

I will be back if I can't get it
Nazaire's Art - -- iMac 500 DV SE --- 17" PB
     
Naz
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Sep 6, 2001, 09:16 PM
 
i love this SITE!!!

I have a very happy iMac with new RAM

Nazaire's Art - -- iMac 500 DV SE --- 17" PB
     
   
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