Installing Computer Memory on the Motherboard

Computer memory is one of the easier components to replace. It is a modular product, meaning that the replacement will generally snap into the slot vacated by the old memory with no modifications required. It is also one of the least expensive parts on a machine. Memory is responsible for a large part of the computer's overall "speed" and, therefore, it is generally quite worth it to replace it on a regular basis. At least every couple of years, updates to current programs are released that require machines to be upgraded, as well.

Computer memory is purchased in amounts that must match with one another when they're placed on the circuit board. One cannot, for example, install one board of 1GB in size on a PC alongside another board of 512MB. In some cases, the computer may boot but the entire available memory will not be used by the machine. One must also make certain to purchase the same type of memory in terms of it being DDR, SDRAM and so forth. Mixing and matching will not work on a computer motherboard.

Installing the memory is really quite easy. One starts by removing the old memory, which involves nothing more than a couple of plastic tabs. The tabs are located at the foot of the memory, alongside the socket which attaches it to the motherboard. These sockets will release in various ways, but one simply releases the memory and pulls it free of the motherboard to start. The new cards are inserted at a slight angle until it fits snugly into the socket. It is depressed straight in until the plastic tabs grasp the circuit board. Once the it is snug in the socket, it's time to boot up the computer and test it.

The computer will run a self test as it starts. The computer memory will be tested as part of this procedure. If there is a problem, the computer will usually offer an alert or simply fail to boot at all. The memory can be removed and the computer restarted to see if it is the cause of the problem. Most often, reseating the memory in the socket will take care of the problem. If the computer memory will not work, check to make sure that it's compatible or return it.

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Installing the Motherboard-Step 8 of 21 in Building Your Own PC

If you've been following along then by now the CPU, fan and memory should already be installed onto the motherboard. Installing the whole setup as one piece is tricky but very doable. REMEMBER to take your time. Motherboards, especially those with extra weight included, crack easily if dropped.

Start by locating the holes on the motherboard and the holes on the case or motherboard mounting plate. I find it is easier to hold the board just above the mounting plate and see how all the holes are going to line up. Move any components out of the way if you have to. If it looks OK visually then you should be alright.

Screw the metal spacers into the holes in the case or mounting plate that lined up with the holes on the motherboard. Tighten them by hand in most cases or use a small wrench (usually a 3/16 socket). If you are using snap-in spacers simply push them through the back of the case until they click into place.

Now slide the motherboard into the case. Make sure everything lines up. If you have a case with a detachable motherboard mounting plate, simply place the board over the previously placed spacer screws on the plate, and make sure they all line up with holes through the motherboard. As you do this, you will need to make sure that the Input/Output (I/O) connectors face backwards and properly align and go through the holes in the back of the case. Some cases have a flimsy removable plate in this back area that allow you to poke out the holes you need. When this step is complete, you should have a motherboard sitting in your case, with everything aligned and the I/O connectors should be sticking out of the holes through the back of the case without being twisted or crimped.

Now go ahead and tighten the board down...gently. Tighten the screws down by hand first as mentioned earlier, finish them with a screwdriver. Make sure you do not tighten them too much. Just make them snug so that the board doesn't wiggle around in the case. If you were installing the board to a removable mounting plate, install the motherboard mounting plate back into the case.

Double check your work.

Check to be sure that the back of the motherboard is not touching any part of the case or mounting plate. And definitely be sure that the board is rigid and tight. If anything looks askew then I suggest taking it all apart and redoing the process.

Chuck Lunsford is an owner and developer of CCSPartner.com. He offers advice on how to get design and build your own personal computer. Visit his website and learn more about designing a computer system for your own personal or private use.

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Building a Computer - The Basics of Choosing & Installing a Motherboard

Building a computer is something any computing enthusiast can try. It's much easier than it looks and the advantages include being able to choose the components you need and want instead of buying an off the shelf PC with things you don't need, and you can save some money as well. The processor is the brains of any computer, but the first component you should select is the motherboard as it will affect every other decision you make when building your machine.

The motherboard has slots for the processor, RAM, expansion cards, and more. Depending on which motherboard you choose, many devices may be included right on the board as integrated chips including the sound card, video card, and wireless networking capabilities!

You should buy a motherboard depending on your needs. Consider if you want a computer for basic office productivity, or if you want a gaming and multimedia powerhouse. These considerations can make a great difference in which motherboard you should select.

If you just need a basic office machine, a low end board that can accept most modern processors is fine. Check for on board sound and video, and that should be more than enough. Gamers might want to look for more capabilities such as the choice to run two video cards in tandem (like Nvidia's SLI), Wireless internet, infrared remote control, and the speed of RAM that can be used.

Once you've got your board, you need to mount your chosen processor to it. Follow the instructions that came with your processor to do this, and always remember you should be wearing an anti-static wristband when doing any internal computer work. Installing the CPU before you put it in the case can make your job a lot easier.

Next you should have small riser screws to place in the case that your motherboard will mount to. If you mount directly to the bottom of the case, you risk shorting out the board, plus the case slots on the back won't match up. Screw in these risers at the screw points on your case. Then mount the motherboard screwing into these risers. Remember, use a screwdriver without a magnetic tip.

Now your motherboard has been mounted, you can plug in the case power supplies to the designated spots, and you're ready to install the rest of your parts. The hardest part is over and you're now on your way to enjoying your own custom built PC.

This story was written by Ross D Taylor, an expert author with more than 10 years experience in internet copywriting. Bret has a wide range of interests varying from internet marketing to very specific niches like how to find a Disc Jockey Service and budgeting for a Disc Jockey Service.

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Installing Your Computer's Motherboard

So you finally decided to build your own computer?! Took you long enough, did someone convince you? You are soon to realize that it is not as hard as you initially thought! Installing a motherboard for the first time can seem like a daunting task but by following these steps outlined below you can do it just like an expert.

Have you static protection gear ready. You do not want to make a mistake this early in the game, frying your motherboard would totally suck. You might think "Oh I don't have any static electricity" but the truth is, even carpet causes static electricity so don't take the risk.
Prepare your working space. Lay out a towel or some paper so that you do not scratch your PC or the surface you will be building on. From this point you should be able to see the slot where your motherboard is suppose to slid into. If in doubt referring to your case manual would not be a bad idea since I am not there to help you.
Once you are sure you found the right slot for your motherboard, carefully pick it up and gently slide it into position. Make sure it is properly aligned or else it will just fall our which is definitely something we don't want to happen! Make sure it is the right side up. Look for memory sockets or adapter slots as this is a good indicator of the top.
Carefully line up the case screw holes line with with the motherboard's. You need to have these lined up correctly so that you can screw it in securely. Make sure they all line up because you will need to take the motherboard out one more time before you actually leave it in for good.
Take out the motherboard. Install plastic spacers that came with the motherboard to prevent sliding and contact with the case. If you are not sure where they should go look at the instructions that came with your motherboard.
It is now time to slide the motherboard back in and secure it in place with screws. Make sure that you do not make them too tight. With too much force you may crack it and if not will definitely have trouble taking it out again if needed.

There you go! You did it. That was pretty easy, wasn't it? Now your 1 step closer to having a new PC built. 

Jonathan has a passion for computers, Search Engine Optimization, and Internet Marketing. Visit his site at http://breakfastnookfurniture.net/ which helps people find breakfast nook furniture and information about kitchen furniture.

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