HP Pavilion memory location

I have plugged in dimms and simms in other computers. I cannot find the memory in my wife's HP Pavilion 4550Z. I want to replace the 64m with 256mg. I have the correct memory but don't see the 64mg. memory.

I was told that I have to open the OTHER side of the case, and the motherboard will swing down. I took off the cover and removed a couple of obvious screws but it would not move. I am concerned about removing the wrong ones for fear that I will detach something on the motherboard from the bottom.

Is there somewhere I can download a diagram of the inside or get instructions of what should be a simple process?

 

Hi tenbob- I have the same Pavilion 4550Z and here is how you do it- After you have taken out the four screws that keep the top and sides cover out, slide the cover back about 3/4 of an inch and lift it off. As you are looking at the box, on the right side, take out the two screws that hold the right side panel tight. There are also a couple of other screws in the back near the bottom center. Pry the right hand side panel away from the case. It will open outward as though it were hinged. When you have it open about a quarter of the way, pull straight away from the case and it will detach, but do it gently as the cables will still be attached. You should be able to pull it away about six inches which is enough to both see and remove/replace the RAM. If you need to pull it further away, just remove the cables, taking note of their location to aid in reassembly. To put the side back on, just keep moving it toward the case and note that in the lower center, there is a flap that you have to slide the panel under. You may have to use a little force here, but it will go and then swing it in again, being careful not to pinch any cables while you close it. It is much easier the second time you do it. Post back if you are still unclear. good luck! Clydeo22

 

Will go at it this morning and let you know. Thanks for the details

 

Did what you said and it was very easy

HOWEVER

The specs on the memory, numbers etc, were supposed to fit that HP but the bottom notch was about 1/4" off so it was not really. I'm going back to change it and bring the HP memory with me to be sure.

 

Hi ten bob- glad it worked out for you! It should use either PC100 or PC133. Either one will work but make sure that whatever you get matches the speed of the one that is already installed. There is no difference in the notches, in fact all SDRAM should have the same notch pattern other than DDR. Be careful toting it around as it is very sensitive to static electricity and should be in the box or bag. Post back when you finish, if you will. Clydeo22
Edit: I should have mentioned that there is a 256MB maximum for RAM on that motherboard (440ZX chipset). Gotta go, the Vikings are on.

 

All worked out fine I did check that 256 was the max and the memory popped right in as expected

I went to Micro Center and brought the 64mg memory with me to compare. The difference made by winxp and 256mg was substantial. She only has a 20G HD and it is over half empty so I am in no hurry to complete the upgrade with a new 80G Maxtor I have in the cabinet.

Thanks for the help and cheering along.