Hardware Installation Guide for Cisco 8300 Series Secure Routers

Remove and replace DDR DIMMs

Updated: July 31, 2025

Want to summarize with AI?

Details procedures for installing and removing DDR DIMMs, including locating and orienting DIMMs within the system, with step-by-step instructions for safe removal and installation.

To access the DIMMs, you must remove the chassis cover as described in the Access and Install Modules section.

Caution

Always wear an ESD-preventive wrist strap and ensure that it makes good contact with your skin when you remove or install DIMMs. Connect the equipment end of the wrist strap to the metal part of the chassis.

Caution

Handle DIMMs by the edges only. DIMMs are ESD-sensitive components and can be damaged by mishandling.

Locate and orient DIMM

DIMMs have a polarization notch on the mating edge to prevent incorrect insertion. The image shows the polarization notch on a DIMM.

Figure 1. DIMM Showing Polarization Notch


1	Polarization notch

Remove a DIMM

Follow these steps to remove a DIMM:

Procedure

	1.	Read the Safety Warnings section and disconnect the power supply before you perform any module replacement.
	2.	If the cover is not already removed, remove the chassis cover.
	3.	Locate the DIMM module to find the DIMM sockets on the chassis.
	4.	Rotate DIMM connector handles downwards to extract the DIMM module. Figure 2. Remove a DIMM

Install a DIMM

Follow these steps to install a DIMM on the Cisco 8300 Series Secure Routers.

Procedure

	1.	Read the Safety Warnings section and disconnect the power supply before you perform any DIMM replacement.
	2.	If the cover is not already removed, remove the chassis cover.
	3.	Locate the DIMM module to find the DIMM sockets on the device.
	4.	Ensure that both latches on the DIMM connector are in the open position.
	5.	Orient the DIMM so that the polarization notch lines up with the polarization key on the connector. Figure 3. DIMM showing Polarization Notch
	6.	Insert the DIMM into the connector one side at a time.
	7.	Rotate the connector handles upward and click into place.
	8.	Reinstall the chassis cover. Figure 4. Install a DIMM
	9.	Replace the chassis cover.

Need help?

Open a support case

(Requires a Cisco Service Contract)

The documentation set for this product strives to use bias-free language. For the purposes of this documentation set, bias-free is defined as language that does not imply discrimination based on age, disability, gender, racial identity, ethnic identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and intersectionality. Exceptions may be present in the documentation due to language that is hardcoded in the user interfaces of the product software, language used based on RFP documentation, or language that is used by a referenced third-party product. Learn more about how Cisco is using Inclusive Language.