Populating Sodimm sockets

The system will automatically operate in single channel mode, dual channel mode, or flex mode, depending on how the SODIMMs are installed. Refer to the following table to identify the SODIMM channel locations.

Table 3-2Identifying SODIMM locations

Location	System board label	Channel

Lower Socket	SODIMM1	Channel A

Upper Socket	SODIMM3	Channel B

●The system will operate in single channel mode if the SODIMM sockets are populated in one channel only.

●The system will operate in flex mode if the memory capacity of the SODIMM in Channel A is not equal to the memory capacity of the SODIMM in Channel B. In flex mode, the channel populated with the least amount of memory describes the total amount of memory assigned to dual channel and the remainder is assigned to single channel. If one channel will have more memory than the other, the larger amount should be assigned to channel A.

●The system will operate in a higher-performing dual channel mode if the memory capacity of the SODIMM in Channel A is equal to the memory capacity of the SODIMM in Channel B.

●In any mode, the maximum operational speed is determined by the slowest SODIMM in the system.

Installing SODIMMs

There are two memory sockets on the system board. To remove or install memory modules:

1.Remove all removable media, such as optical discs or USB flash drives, from the computer.

2.Turn off the computer properly through the operating system, then turn off any external devices.

3.Disconnect the power cord from the power outlet and disconnect any external devices.

CAUTION: You must disconnect the power cord and wait approximately 30 seconds for the power to drain before adding or removing memory modules. Regardless of the power-on state, voltage is always supplied to the memory modules as long as the computer is plugged into an active AC outlet. Adding or removing memory modules while voltage is present may cause irreparable damage to the memory modules or system board.

4.Remove/disengage any security devices that prohibit opening the computer.

5.Place the computer face down on a soft flat surface. HP recommends that you set down a blanket, towel, or other soft cloth to protect the bezel and screen surface from scratches or other damage.

6.Loosen the two captive screws at the bottom of the computer (1) to release the bottom edge of the access panel.

Removing and installing memory 23