being TJ Rutkowski

I don’t think I really needed it, but for $62 delivered from Amazon I couldn’t resist upgrading from 2GB to 4GB. Sure, Apple sells the 2 X 2GB SIMMS for $300, but Crucial, Kingston, and even Samsung offer the same chips for far less. Think of computer memory like gas for your car (if you have a car). As long as you are looking at the same quantity and grade, you’re putting the right stuff in. My only suggestion is to stick with a name brand.

Installation is a snap

Apple is nice enough to include simple instructions online, even if you buy your memory from someone else. If you want a second opinion, see my steps and tips below. It took more time to get the new memory out of the package than it did to install it.

Here are the simple steps that anyone should feel comfortable following. I have a MacBook Pro 15″ 2.6 GHz Core Duo 2, but these steps are generally the same for most MacBooks. 

1. Power down the notebook and unplug anything that may be attached.
2. Remove the battery–if it’s hot, wait 10 minutes.
3. Touch something metal in the battery cavity to ground yourself.
4. Near the center of the MacBook, there are 3 small screws and a plate covering the memory. Remove the screws and cover.
5. The memory is rectangular in shape. It is clipped in on the short sides. Gently spread the clips, and the memory will pop up.
6. Slide the memory out, noticing the angle because you will insert the replacement chip at the same angle. 
7. Set the chip down near the socket without changing its orientation. This helps you remember which way the replacement chip needs to be inserted.
8. Repeat steps 5-7 for the second chip (if you have one).
9. Insert the replacements gently, but firmly. If you know you have the notches in the right place, you should be comfortable applying some pressure as you insert the chip. Push in at the angle you pulled in step 6, then press down and it will snap right in.
10. With both chip installed, replace the cover, screws, and battery. 
11. Turn it on and go to About This Mac to confirm you job is complete.
12. If you don’t see GB you expected, go to More Info. Click Memory, and see if both banks are registering. Chances are that you didn’t get the chip deep enough in the socket–an easy problem to remedy by taking the chip out and reinserting it.

That’s All

I removed 2 X 1GM Samsung chips (let me know if you want them) and installed 2 X 2GB Kingston chips. You can do it, too! Now, I’m looking forward to even faster video editing and 3D design.