by Rick Leigh

Created on: January 16, 2009

"RAM" is an acronym for Random Access Memory and it is one of the most important hardware elements in your computer, second only to the processor itself.

When a program is being executed it is copied from the hard disk drive or other location into the RAM and from there is pulled into the processor as the instructions are processed. So any failure of the RAM can result in either total failure or random crazy behavior of your processor because it scrambles the instructions which are supposed to be presented to the processor. This damage can be obvious or hidden, and can effectively disable your computer.

The most likely source of damage to the RAM is you!

The very touch of your fingers or tools can lead to destruction of the RAM hardware.

A RAM module consists of a small printed circuit board with several ICs (integrated circuits) on it. Each of these devices contains a fraction of the module's total memory capacity. For example, if you have a 1 GB (gigabyte) stick, there are 8 Gb (gigabits) of memory cells (more if the module is error correcting) on that stick. Obviously each of these bits is incredibly small!

These tiny cells can be hurt if a large enough electrical charge is applied to them, and since they are tiny the required charge is small. And if you've ever felt a spark when touching a door knob you know how a charge can get onto a person's hands.

When the module is properly installed in it socket, there are conductive paths on its circuit board that provide a means for excessive charge to be drained away from the delicate RAM chips. But when they are out of their sockets there is no such exit path. So any electrical charge you might put on the module may be passed into the ICs and either damage or destroy those delicate bits.

Here's how to handle your RAM modules (sticks) safely. To avoid damage *always* do the following:

-Avoid touching the RAM module unless necessary.

-When the module is out of its socket, keep it in the special bag in which it comes. It is constructed of a special anti-static conductive plastic which protects the module.

-Have strong light on the RAM sockets as you remove or install the module(s). If necessary use a magnifying lamp or other tool so you can see clearly.

-If you have one, use a conductive wrist strap which is connected to a grounded mat or other ground point (such as an alligator clip to the chassis of the computer or the ground point of the motherboard).

-If you do not have a wrist strap, put both hands onto an unpainted metal

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