Apple has posted User Manuals (PDF) for its
new notebooks, including the yet-unreleased 17-inch MacBook Pro. According to the manuals, installing additional memory in the new aluminum notebooks isn't as easy as with previous models. Nevertheless, users can do so by following the guides and their warranty will not be voided.
Even though few aluminum MacBook and MacBook Pro buyers are already considering upgrading their memory, these manuals are available with instructions to do so. Users must proceed by removing the MacBook's battery first. Eight screws that secure the bottom case of the MacBook must then be removed as well, after which the user can remove the bottom case. Because the screws are different lengths, users must note the screw lengths and locations so they can replace the screws correctly. “Put them aside in a safe place,” says Apple, offering imagery as example.
As always, users must touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from their body. Once you do this, push the ejection levers on the sides of the memory module in an outward direction to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle but, before removing it, make sure you see the half-circle notches. “If you don’t, try pressing the ejection levers outward again,” Apple advises.
With the memory in sight, hold the module by its notches and remove it from the slot. Remove the other memory module using the same method, insert the new memory module in the slot, align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot, tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
Wait, you still have to even pressure out pushing down on the memory module using your fingers. You should hear a click when the memory is inserted correctly, according to Apple, which adds that you need to make sure you put the different length screws in their proper locations as you place the bottom case back on the machine.
Apple also included a note telling users how to check whether the computer recognizes the new memory. Use the links below to see the user manual for your own MacBook, MacBook Pro model.
MacBook 13-inch (Late 2008) User Manual (PDF)
MacBook Pro 15-inch (Late 2008) User Manual (PDF)
MacBook Pro 17-inch (Late 2008) User Manual (PDF).
