Building A System from Scratch, Part 2 - RAM and interface cards
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Some people advise fitting the drives and cables at this point, although in my experience, this will make installing the RAM module(s) more difficult, so proceed with the RAM now. Modern DDR RAM modules have 184 pins, and will usually slot into one of four identical interfaces near the processor socket.
There will be a small white catch at each end; ensure that this is in the open position and insert each end of the RAM into the appropriate slot. Push directly down, carefully but firmly.
When doing this, any angled pressure will result in the loss of these delicate circuit boards! When pushed in fully, if the catches have not locked into place by themselves (which they often do), lock them now. If you have bought two RAM modules that have been made by different manufacturers, I have found that it is best to only install one of them prior to installing the operating system, and one of them afterwards, to minimize any compatibility issues that may arise.
Now is the time to insert any separate interface cards, such as AGP graphics cards, PCI sound cards or modems, etc. These are easy to fit; simply push each card into the appropriate slot. If these come with cables that need to be attached to the motherboard, find their correct installation locations on the board and connect them now.
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