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7812
April 25th, 2009 09:00
Inspiron 8100 memory module access
Hi, my Inspiron 8100 laptop is still kickin' after all these years. Recently I've considered upgrading the RAM from the original 256mb to the max. 512mb. I just tried removing the K/M panel per the Solution Guide to ascertain if there is currently a single 256mb module or two 128s. After removing the single screw the panel would not budge. I tried prying till it felt like something was about to break. It seems to be further secured by some notches or tabs not visible. I found a guide at the Dell site which mentions disengaging two metal tabs at the opposite end of the panel from the screw, but no amount of careful sliding or prying has worked.
Is there some trick to this I'm jut not seeing, or is it a case where I just have to grit my teeth and pry till something gives. I admit I have a tendency to be perhaps too gentle with this sort of thing, but this machine is still in very decent condition, and I'd like to keep it that way.
Thanks for any advice on the matter :-)
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ieee488
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11.1K Posts
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April 25th, 2009 11:00
I have no clue what you are talking about with the K/M panel.
Per http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/ins8100/en/sm_en/remove.htm#1075961 it is simple removal of a cover on the bottom of your laptop.
Also, if you go to support.dell.com and enter your service tag number it will tell you what was the original configuration of your laptop.
DeeDeeG
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April 25th, 2009 14:00
Thanks for the reply ieee488. I had been to that page you linked. It makes removal of the memory module access (K/M) panel look simple, but it hasn't been that way for me. After removing the screw the panel still will not budge with prying or lifting. It feels like there may be clips or tabs on the sides securing it in place. I wondered if there was some external release for the clips, similar to the release for the battery. It just doesn't feel right to keep prying till something gives (breaks).
Thanks for the directions to locating the original configuration. It was shipped with two 128mb modules.
ieee488
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April 25th, 2009 16:00
I have replaced RAM in various models of Dell laptops, and I haven't encountered the difficulty you are having.
In general the covers should lift up on the side closest to the screw. There are two small tabs that go under the case on the opposite end.
Be glad yours isn't under the keyboard. The D400 has one module like that, and I haven't had the courage to replace that one.
Good luck.