Upgrade System Memory
Aptiva 1xx and 3xx Memory
Upgrading the memory in an
Aptiva 1xx and 3xx is very easy and definitely the first system upgrade
you should undertake. If your system has less than 16 Meg under Windows
95, nothing besides upgrading the processor will get you such significant
speed improvements.
As with most Pentium systems, memory must be upgraded in pairs. If you
want to add 8 Meg, you need to purchase two 4 Meg SIMMs (Single Inline
Memory Modules). If you want to 16 Meg, then you need to purchase two 8
Meg SIMMs.
You must obtain SIMMs with the following specifications:
- 72 Pin
- 32 or 36 bit
- 70 nanoseconds (60 nanoseconds reportedly works
but is not supported)
- IBM suggests gold contacts but I'm running tin
contacts without problems.
- DRAM or EDO
To install the SIMMS:
- Carefully remove the case. I have found this
is easiest by removing the screws, placing the edge of a thin book against
the base, resting the other edge of the book against my body, and pulling
forward on the case.
- Find the open Simm bank. They are located about
where #1 is in the diagram below. (Aptiva desktop (2144) owners: Imagine
the diagram is on it's side)
- If no SIMM bank is open, you will have to remove
one set of SIMMs to make room for your new set.
- Press the SIMMs into place until they "click".
They are inserted at a 90 degree angle to the motherboard and tilted to
an approximate 45 degree angle to install.
- Replace the cover and restart the system. The
Power On Startup Tests should show the new memory.
- If the tests do not confirm the new memory, then
the SIMMs are not seated correctly in their sockets or they are the wrong
type.
- If you have installed EDO memory, you need to
enter the BIOS system setup and change the memory settings to reflect this.
To enter the setup, press the F1 key when you see the IBM screen at power-on.
Special Note:
It is apparently possible to mix SIMM speed when
upgrading the RAM on the Aptiva. However, it is vital when doing so to
install the slower SIMMS in the first SIMM bank ( ie. sockets 1 & 2).
Otherwise you will get memory errors, GPFs, etc..... All the other cautions
re using same manufacturer's chip, same speed, type, etc. in each bank
apply.
mokyde@ibm.net, who provided this information,
is running with (2) 4MB 70 ns standard SIMMS in sockets 1 & 2 and (2)
8 MB 60 ns EDO SIMMS in sockets 3 & 4.
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