PCTech Forums

Hi all I picked up my RAM and Soundcard just a little while ago, what I need to know is this:

How do I disable my onboard sound on my Motherboard, so it uses my Soundcard instead?

Which way does the RAM go in and how careful do you have to be? What should I do to prvent static or whatever from the RAM?

I am waiting for your reply, all I need to do is slap these 2 things in then i can boot my new system up for the first time. Thanks!

Static:
Make sure to disconnect power supply before adding or removing RAM.
Make sure that you ground yourself before touching the ram and install it to the motherboard.
One way is to touch something metal that is grounded, I have an old metal floor lamp that I use.
Another way is to touch the inside of your case the metal part not the painted part.

Installing RAM
Step 1. Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the retaining clips outward.
Step 2. Align a DIMM on the slot such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break
on the slot.
The DIMM only fits in one correct orientation. It will cause permanent
damage to the motherboard and the DIMM if you force the DIMM into the
slot at incorrect orientation.
Step 3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the slot until the retaining clips at both ends fully
snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.

If you want to install two memory modules, for optimal compatibility
and reliability, it is recommended to install them in the slots of the
same color. In other words, install them either in the set of blue slots
(DDR1 and DDR3), or in the set of black slots (DDR2 and DDR4).

Disabling Onboard Sound
In your BIOS select the Advanced Screen now arrow down to Chipset Configuration enter.
Arrow down until you see OnBoard AC’97 Audio enter
Select Disabled for the onboard AC’97 Audio feature.

All of this can be found in the

PSU has never been powered up, not once as far as I know. Everything is new and I put it together over time. Do I still disonnect my PSU from my MB? Also, my PSU is NOT plugged into the wall, if I touch the PSU or the case, will it still ground me although the PSU is not plugged into the wall? thanks!

You do not have to disconnect the PSU from the MB
but the tower should not be connected to the AC outlet.

You could plug in your monitor but not turn it on and then connect you video cable to
your video card that will ground your system, then you could just touch the inside of the case

Okay.. i'm sorry to say this.. but do NOT remove the AC cord from the wall.. leave it connected.. but turn off the supply at the wall switch..

touching your case will do absolutely nothing if that case isn't earthed itself.. the safest way to work is with the power switched off at the outlet.. but the cable.. (and the solid earth connection) connected..

It is the very first thing I do when building a new pc.. is plug the cable in to give me a stable earth for the rest of the installation...