Can I install additional memory in my PowerBook 3400 computer?

Installing memory in the PowerBook 3400 and G3 computer is possible if you are familiar with electronic components. If you attempt installation, any damage caused by the installation will not be covered by the Apple Limited Product Warranty.

In order to accomplish the installation you will need a Torx T-8 screwdriver and a soft cloth to protect the display. The RAM card must use TSOP low-profile RAM chips only. A card with high profile chips may damage your computer. Verify with the memory vendor that the card is specifically designed for use with a PowerBook 3400 or G3 computer.

All instructions presume you are facing the PowerBook as if you were typing.

First, disconnect all cables from the unit, close and latch the display, and remove the battery. On the bottom side of the PowerBook are three screws which attach the keyboard, remove all three screws. Turn the computer back over to drop the screws out.

Next, open the display and remove the keyboard. You may have to use a small tool to gently lift the keyboard from the PowerBook. Lift the front edge of the keyboard up above the palmrest and gently pull it towards you approximately 3/8 of an inch to release it from the computer. There are two cables which attach the the keyboard to the logic board, pulling more than 3/8 of an inch can damage the cables.

Place a soft cloth over the display to protect it and lay the keyboard face up on the cloth.

Touch the metal area inside the PowerBook to dissipate any static electricity you may have built up on your body before handling the RAM card.

If you are replacing an existing RAM card, remove it by gently lifting up on the lower right corner of the card and rocking it out. The new card will take its place. Align the new card on the socket and press down firmly until you feel the card seat into the connector. Be sure the card is level and firmly installed into your PowerBook to ensure reliable operation.

To reinstall the keyboard, insert the back edge under the speaker grille and press down on the front edge to seat the keyboard into the PowerBook. Adjust the display so it is at a 90 degree angle to the computer and rest the PowerBook display on a table top. In this orientation the bottom of the PowerBook will be facing you, then replace the three screws securing the keyboard. Gently squeeze the keyboard and PowerBook to ensure a close fit while replacing the screws. Be careful not to overtighten them, stop when they are snug.

Turn the PowerBook back over, reinstall the battery and power it on to ensure the PowerBook is functioning properly. Once booted up, choose About This Computer from the Apple menu and check the total amount of memory installed. It should be 16MB plus the size of the card installed. If it is not or if the PowerBook makes the sound of breaking glass or get a memory error message during bootup, there could be a problem with the RAM card and it should be removed.

Note: Macintosh PowerBook G3 Series computers should not be confused with Macintosh PowerBook G3 computers. Though the names are similar, there are significant differences. To visually identify which type of computer you have, close the display and inspect the display case. A Macintosh PowerBook G3 has a small, six-color Apple logo on the display case. A Macintosh PowerBook G3 Series computer has a large Apple logo on the display case that is not six-colored.