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In the following guide I explain how to remove the keyboard and upgrade memory modules in a Dell XPS M1210 laptop.
This laptop has two memory slots. One of them can be easily access from the bottom of the laptop, but the second memory slot is hidden under the keyboard.
A Dell XPS M1210 can take up to 4GB memory total. You can install up to 2GB stick into each slot.
You can use DDR2-533 PC2-4200 or DDR2-667 PC2-5300 memory modules.
Before you start taking apart the laptop, do not forget to turn it off and remove the battery.
STEP 1.
Remove one screw securing the memory cover on the bottom of the laptop. Remove the cover.
STEP 2.
Spread latches on both sides of the memory slot. After the memory module pops up at a 30 degree angle, carefully remove from the slot by the edges.
Now you can replace it with a new 2GB memory module.
STEP 3.
In the following few steps we’ll be removing the keyboard.
Lift up the right side of the power button cover with a small screwdriver.
Continue removing the cover with your fingers.
STEP 4.
Remove the power button cover.
STEP 5.
Remove three screws securing the keyboard.
STEP 6.
Lift up the keyboard as it shown on the following picture.
STEP 7.
Disconnect the keyboard from the motherboard. Do it only if you are replacing the keyboard.
If you follow this guide in order to upgrade the memory module, simply flip the keyboard upside down on the palmrest.
You can access the internal memory slot without disconnecting the keyboard.
Need a new keyboard for your Dell XPS M1210 laptop? You’ll find it here very cheap.
Under the keyboard you’ll find the internal memory module and CMOS battery. Also, you’ll get some limited access to the cooling fan.
If the fan looks dusty, blow it off with compressed air.
Cleaning the cooling fan once in a while will prevent the laptop from overheating.
STEP 8.
Now you can access the memory module installed in the internal slot.
Spread latches on both sides of the slot and carefully pull the memory module by the edges.
Now you can replace it with a new 2GB memory module.
After both memory modules are replaced, you can assemble the laptop back together and turn it on.
You don’t have to change any settings in the BIOS. New memory should be detected and configured automatically.
June 28th, 2010 at 11:17 pm
[...] UPDATE: I just created a new step-by-step disassembly guide for Dell XPS M1210. You’ll find the new guide here. [...]
November 9th, 2010 at 11:04 am
Just wondering if you can tell me WHERE the CMOS battery is on a Compaq V5207NR Laptop.
I know it’s on the motherboard but does the board have to come completely OUT of the case?
I was looking for exploded viewes of this laptop online and can’t find one anywhere! I just replaced a CMOS battery on a Dell Inspiron 1526 and that battery was on the opposite side of the motherboard, requiring the complete removal of the motherboard just to change that bat.
Crazy designs! But, that’s what us computer repair technicians get paid for right? : )
Thanks!!
April 13th, 2011 at 1:12 pm
Hi Friend,
If i have a XPS M1210 with only 1gb RAM (slot hidden under the keyboard.) without Memory in the expansion Slot and i bought a module with 2 gb RAM, ¿in which slot should I install it?
April 13th, 2011 at 8:57 pm
atmoises,
You can install it into either slot. There will be no difference.
You can have 2GB memory in the slot under the keyboard and 1GB in the bottom slot or vice versa.
October 29th, 2011 at 5:44 pm
Hi,
I have 2 (2GB) ram on the front and the back set up (they’re the correct ram from crucial), but once everything is installed, the num lock and cap lock lights blinks 45 times or 45 secs, the hard drive runs but the comp isn’t on. The BIOS have been updated from A01 to A03. Is there anything I’m missing?
Thank you!
- AS
October 29th, 2011 at 6:40 pm
Alicia,
What is your laptop model? Sounds like compatibility issue.
Have you tried those memory sticks one by one in your laptop?
March 16th, 2012 at 8:44 am
Thanks for this. It was useful. Just upgraded my M1210 and … it still works!! I didn’t break it!
Thanks again.
March 31st, 2012 at 10:01 pm
Unfortunately I dropped my xpsm1210 breaking the top cover where the touchpad goes and also the bottom,black part at the back near to slot for the kensington lock and modem jack. In addition to what was shown in this post what else will I have to do to replace these parts. I already have the parts in question but I´m a bit hesitant to attempt it without a guide. Thanks in advance.
September 25th, 2012 at 8:51 pm
Thanks for the awesome guide! Very helpful.
Just in case any one else had the same problem, after adding RAM I got the following message after boot.
The amount of system memory has changed.
If you did not change your memory…
To resolve this issue, try to reseat the memory
The solution was to be patient. After a minute or so it will beep twice and let you enter setup or continue. (from http://www.sysarchitects.com/node/109)