For more information on the type of memory used to upgrade your iMac, read article 58007: " iMac (All Models): Memory Specifications and Upgrades ".
Installing Memory in Your Computer
Important: Before you add memory, print these instructions. You won't be able to view this information, because you must turn off your computer to install additional memory.
Installing memory involves four procedures:
1. Turning off the computer.
2. Opening the computer.
3. Inserting the memory module into a specific slot.
4. Closing the computer.
Warning: Apple Computer recommends that you have an Apple-authorized service provider install memory. Apple does not provide telephone support for memory upgrades. Consult the service and support information that came with your computer for instructions on how to contact an Apple-authorized service provider or Apple for service. If you install these items yourself, you risk damaging your equipment, and this damage is not covered by the limited warranty on your computer. See an Apple-authorized dealer or service provider for additional information about this or any other warranty question.
Follow these instructions to install memory. Before installing memory, carefully read the "DRAM Configurations" and "Video Memory Configurations" sections above.
Note: Do not use a powered screwdriver. You may damage the screws on your computer.
1. If your computer is turned on, turn it off by choosing Shut Down from the Special menu.
2. Unplug all the cables from the computer, including the power cord.
Warning: If your internal modem is connected to a telephone line, make sure you disconnect the telephone line from the internal modem port before you open the computer's cover. This prevents electric shock.
3. If the computer is secured, unlock it by removing the security cable from the handle.
4. Place a soft towel or cloth on the desk or surface.
Place a soft, clean cloth under the monitor.
Figure 1 Towel under monitor.
5. Holding the handle with one hand and the front of the computer with the other, slowly lift up and turn the computer so the screen is facing down on the cloth.
6. Use a Phillips screwdriver to unscrew the screw on the lower back cover.
Remove this screw.
Figure 2
Removing screw from back cover.
7. Grab the small plastic handle on the cover and pull the cover away from the computer.
Use this handle to remove the plastic cover.
Remove the plastic cover by pulling it away from the computer as shown.
Figure 3 Removing cover.
8. Set the cover aside.
9. Touch any exposed metal on the logic board/drive assembly. This helps protect the computer from damage caused by electrostatic discharge.
Important:
Always do this before you touch any parts, or install any components, inside the computer. To avoid generating static electricity, do not walk around the room until you have completed the installation of the memory and closed the computer.
Touch the metal part of the logic board/drive assembly computer as shown.
Figure 4 Touching metal to prevent electrostatic discharge.
10. If your computer has clamps over any cables, release the cables underneath the clamp. If the clamp has a screw, unscrew it first, then release the cable.
If your computer has a cable clamp here, release any cables that are underneath it.
If your computer has a cable clamp here, unscrew it to release the cable it holds.
Figure 5 Releasing cable clamp.
11. Disconnect the four cables connected to the main logic board.
Note: You may need to use a screwdriver to disconnect the video cable.
Disconnect these four cables.
Figure 6 Disconnecting cables.
12. Move the cables aside so they are out of your way.
Move the four disconnected cables out of the way.
Figure 7
Moving disconnected cables.
13. Use a Phillips screwdriver to unscrew the two screws inside the plastic handle.
Remove the two screws located inside the plastic handle.
Figure 8
Removing screws inside handle.
14. With one hand on the plastic handle, gently pull the handle straight up and out of the computer.
Use the plastic handle to remove the logic board by gently
pulling it straight up and completely out of the computer.
Figure 9
Removing the logic board.
15. Lay the logic board/drive assembly on a clean surface.
This procedure is continued in article 43013:
iMac: Installing Memory (2 of 2)