RAM install in a Quadra 650

#1 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 - 12:47 68kMLA

I recently picked up a Quadra 650 from the trashbin. Can someone give me some pointers on how to access the RAM under the drives?

Thanks in advance

#2 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 - 14:18 68kMLA

you have to remove the cage which holds the drives and the power supply.

quote from LEM:

The 7100 is a pain, because you will need to completely unscrew the metal bracket system which holds the CD-ROM, floppy, and hard drive. You will also need to remove the power supply screw and then the power supply. There are a few cables to disconnect as well.

the PM7100 and Q650 have the same case.

#3 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 - 14:53 68kMLA

Man that sucks.

#4 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 - 19:46 68kMLA

Let your silver lining be that it could be worse. Replacement of RAM or PRAM battery in the 8500/9500 is an exercise in almost complete demolition: fan; CPU daughter card; PCI cards; SCSI, sound, floppy and PSU connectors; power switch and LED; MLB assembly. All out. All out. Then you can attend to the RAM and battery. Finally, there's the small matter of rebuilding ... and it's almost time to replace the battery again.

de

#5 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 - 11:52 68kMLA

Ahhh that take me back…

My first ever RAM install. 14 or so years ago…

Still have the Q650 in basement storage too. Simpler times.

#6 Fri, 2 May 2008 - 00:42 68kMLA

I can remove ram and add ram in a 650 without moving anything. Having long fingers help.

#7 Fri, 2 May 2008 - 00:45 68kMLA

Man that sucks.

It isn't hard. Two screws and undoing the floppy and scsi cable and power connectors to the drive and cd. Then lift and hold the housing with one hand and add the ram with the other. The housing can stay in place in the rear. It will just pivot up.

#8 Thu, 8 May 2008 - 16:43 68kMLA

Try and get the full compliment of ram, then hopefully you won't need to open it up again!

#9 Fri, 9 May 2008 - 00:00 68kMLA

The whole case sucks, while you are in there beware of the numerous sharp edges and places where you can skin your knuckles or trap your fingers. Definitely NOT one of Apple's finer design moments!

#10 Fri, 9 May 2008 - 00:24 68kMLA

FYI if you can find a Quadra 800 mobo, it will go in the 650 case perfectly, and its RAM slots are in a different location on the mobo, so they will be accessible without having to take out the PSU and the drive carrier.

Best,

Matt