4 Things to Know About Installing RAM Safely

Static damage is rare if you ground yourself Touch an unpainted metal part of the case before handling the stick. You don’t need a wrist strap — just avoid shuffling on carpet while holding the gold pins.

Hold the stick by the edges only Never touch the gold contacts or the chips on top. Gripping the sides keeps oils and static away from sensitive components.

Line up the notch before pressing DDR4 and DDR5 sticks are keyed differently, so they only fit one way. If you have to force it, you’re doing it wrong.

Press evenly until the clips snap Apply firm, even pressure on both ends. It takes more force than you expect, but that’s normal. The real risk is bending motherboard pins, which only happens if you rush.