The next step in our journey to big company PC freedom, is to mount and set the memory sticks into the mainboard(or motherboard). This is another taks that is done with very little force. But first, lets discuss the two types of memory sticks that are in use today.

Types of Memory in Use Today

When you planned the inventory for your PC that you are building, you purchased one of these two types of memory. The sticks shown are DDR PC2100 (512m), and a SDRAM PCI 133 (512M) stick.

The interesting part to notice is that they are almost identical in appearance, other than the mounting groves at the bottom of each stick, and the identification decals. That's the main physical difference betweeen the two types. If you examine the DIMM slots in your mother board, you will notice a "detent" (or two for PCI) in the rail where the memory stick seats. The grooves on the memory sticks match the detents. Hence, you can only put the stick in one way.

Please be aware that some memory vendors do not put good identification on the stick.

Also, be sure to read the decals (if they are there) and don't remove them if they indicate it will void your warranty. I've called their bluff, and ate the cost of another stick as a result of my rebelious attitude. Finally, the front side bus speed(FSB), and PCI speeds are a matter of great debate, both in this forum, and beyond, but typically overclocker types will go for PC150, or PC2400, and beyond, as they need the higher speeds for their 'application". For the general build, a good stick of memory from any number of known vendors will provide you will reliable service, without any headaches.

Mount the memory stick into the DIMM

Ok, for the Abit board in this "build", the motherboard guide indicates that I need to place the stick into the farthest slot, DIMM 1.

The first step is to open the white (in this case) tabs on each end of the DIMM socket. Gently pull them backward until they rock open, as shown in the photo. You will notice that most DIMM slots have vertical guide rails to help you easily center the stick for seating. Make sure you have the stick in thse rails, and do not force them. Slide the stick all the way down, but do not seat it yet.Inspect the stick to ensure it is fully straight in the socket, and then gently press and seat the memory stick using your thumbs on each end of the stick. The DIMM tabs on each end of the DIMM slot will pop vertical and lock the stick into place.

Some schools of though use only the tabs to seat the chip. The concern expressed for the difference in procedure is undue pressure on the mainbaord to seat the sticks, and it is a valid concern. You will have to decide the best course of action to follow in your situation.


Previous Article Links

  • Should I build, or should I buy?
  • Setting an Inventory and Ordering it All
  • Setting up the Work Area
  • Having the right tools for the job
  • Forming an "Order of Battle"
  • Arranging your parts, and getting started!
  • Case Preparation and Power Supply considerations
  • Main Board Preparation
  • Cpu Alignment and Mounting
  • Thermal Paste Application
  • HSF Alignment and Mounting
  • Motherboard Mounting In Case

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