Fred would like to upgrade the amount of RAM in his PC, but he is not sure how to locate it or how to determine how much RAM is installed. Help him determine how much RAM he has so he can figure out how much more to buy. | Lab Identifying RAM and RAM Sockets Estimated time 40 Minutes Objective This lab will focus on the identification of various types of Random Access Memory RAM and RAM sockets. Equipment The following equipment is required for this exercise A functioning computer system with two DIMMS installed and the proper tools to remove the computer cover Manual for the motherboard used in the computer Optional RAM Tester. If unsure of the operation of the RAM tester ask the instructor for further instruction. Scenario Fred would like to upgrade the amount of RAM in his PC but he is not sure how to locate it or how to determine how much RAM is installed. Help him determine how much RAM he has so he can figure out how much more to buy. Procedure Random Access Memory is memory used by the CPU to store open files and active applications temporarily. RAM is volatile meaning that any information stored in it is lost when the system is powered-down. RAM comes in small expansion board forms with varying numbers of edge connectors. The RAM boards also called sticks are made in 30 72 168 or 184 pin configurations. They are referred to as SIMMs or DIMMs depending on the chip density. Many times the only information to be gained visually is the manufacturer s name. This is why a quality RAM tester is a critical piece of diagnostic equipment for PC repair shops. Observe proper care concerning power supplies and ESD Step 1 Boot the system and record the POST amount of RAM. Step 2 Shut down the system and follow all the safety steps in removing the computer s cover. 1 - 3 IT Essentials I - Lab Copyright 2002 Cisco Systems Inc. Step 3 After gaining access to the motherboard note the position of the RAM slots and whether they are in use making notes in the journal. SLOT TYPE TOTAL NUMBER OF SLOTS NUMBER OF SLOTS OPEN TOTAL RAM CAPACITY Step 4 Record the information about the installed RAM sticks in the table below. MANUFACTURER TYPE CAPACITY each SPEED TOTAL CAPACITY INSTALLED
