Content

• Steps
• What do you need

Additional random access memory or random access memory (RAM) can be plugged into or installed into the memory slots on your iMac at any time. Additional RAM for iMac computers is available in the form of SO-DIMM cards, which can be inserted into the memory slots on your computer after removing the cover with a screwdriver. This guide applies to any iMac computer except the 2012 21 "iMac.

Steps

1. 1 Prepare your iMac for RAM installation.
   • Turn off your iMac and disconnect the network cable and all other cables from the computer. This will prevent electric shock.
   • Let the computer stand for at least 10 minutes after turning it off. This will allow the hot parts inside the iMac to cool down before you can install the RAM.
   • Place a soft, clean towel on a flat work surface, then gently place your iMac face down on the towel. This is to avoid scratching the screen while installing the memory.
2. 2 Open the RAM compartment.
   • Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the compartment cover on the bottom of your iMac. The RAM compartment looks like an oblong rectangle and is located directly under the stand of your iMac.
   • Set aside the RAM compartment cover and inspect the compartment for plugs or clips. If you are using a 2007 iMac or later, there will be blanks to secure the RAM in the compartment. If you are using a pre-2006 iMac, there will be clips on each side of the compartment.
   • "Fold back" the two end caps by carefully lowering them. If there is already a SO-DIMM board in there, you will see one dummy under the SO-DIMM board that can be removed to remove the inserted RAM. If there are clamps, open them, place your thumbs on the inside of the clamps, and then push down on them from the inside of the RAM compartment.
     
     
3. 3 Install RAM.
   • Insert the memory into the memory slot with the memory modules facing up. You will hear a small click when the memory is inserted correctly.
     
     
   • Replace the plugs. If clips are used, close them on the inserted memory card.
     
     
   • Use a Phillips screwdriver to close the RAM compartment cover.
   • Return your iMac to its normal position, reconnect the cables and power cord, and then turn on your computer.
4. 4 Test the new RAM. After you insert new memory into your iMac, you can make sure it is correctly installed and recognized by your computer.
   • Wait for the desktop to appear after turning on the computer.
   • Click on "Apple" from the menu in the upper left corner, select "About This Mac." You will see the amount of memory in your iMac that should increase based on the amount of RAM you added.
5. 5 That's all!

What do you need

• Soft, clean towel
• crosshead screwdriver
• SO-DIMM memory card