If I can do it, so can you! (installing RAM)

I recently bought a 20-inch iMac, (not the recently announced ones). It came with 512MB of RAM, and I wanted more RAM because of the programs I use so I ordered a 1GB chip.

I, as do many others, have a tendency to be apprehensive about tinkering with the innards of a computer. Now a computer nerd may say RAM is not considered innards, but for the average person it might as well be.

Fortunately Small Dog’s Tech. staff is very helpful and patient. I brought my iMac to Matt and asked if he would supervise me as I tried to install the RAM myself.

I wasn’t really expecting any problems but I learn by doing and feel the most effective way is to have someone who knows what they’re doing present. True, some people might feel learn by doing and making mistakes along the way makes a bigger impression and the person learning will have a stronger imprint but that is not my learning style, and it’s definitely not the most efficient use of my already limited time!

For the G5 iMac, all you need is a Phillips #2 screwdriver and a soft, clean surface to work on. Follow these steps as taken from Apple’s Support section of their website.

1. Turn off your computer.
2. Disconnect all cable & unplug the power cord.
3. Place a soft, clean towel/cloth on your working surface and slowly lay the computer face down.
4. Raise the stand and use a Phillips #2 screwdriver to loosen the two captive screws on the memory access door.
5. Remove the memory access door and set it aside.
6. Slowly & simultaneously pull the two grey tabs outwards.
7. Now insert the memory module into the slot.
8. Press the memory module firmly and evenly into the compartment. You’ll hear a slight click when the memory is seated correctly.
9. If you already have a second chip of RAM in the computer, make sure it’s seated all the way in.
10. Replace the memory access door using a Phillips #2 screwdriver to tighten the screws.

Presto! You’ve just installed a piece of RAM by yourself! Pat yourself on the back for a job well-done. And trust me, if I can do this, so can you!

(Click here to print out Apple’s PDF. )