the standard for COAST modules. Different manufacturers vary their size, especially the
height and makeup. For example, Motorola’s standard for a COAST module is between
4.33 and 4.36 inches wide and 1.12 and 1.16 inches high.
COAST modules are mounted on motherboards using a special socket called aCELP
(card edge low profile). Some motherboards include only a CELP socket without other
external cache on the board. More common are motherboards that allow COAST mod-
ulestobeaddedtosupplementsolderedcachechipsontheboard.Sincetherearenoclear
standards for COAST modules, it stands to reason that there are no standards for CELP
mounts. Check your motherboard’s documentation for compatibility before purchasing
a COAST module for your system. Typically, COAST modules are only compatible
within the same manufacturer, but some motherboards do support modules from other
manufacturers. The problem is in how they mount to the board. Check with the manufac-
turer of the motherboard for cache module compatibilities.Installing a Cache Module
Your best bet is to take your PC to a certified PC technician and have that person install or
add cache for you. This process involves matching the cache module to the motherboard
and chipset, removing the motherboard, inserting the module, and then reinstalling the
motherboard, reconnecting everything you disconnected when you took out the mother-
board. If you aren’t scared off yet, then here are some tips on what you’ll need to know.
Review the motherboard’s documentation or check with the PC manufacturer to de-
termine if you can expand the L2 cache on your PC. If cache memory is already installed,
you may be able to use the existing chips as a guide to the specification for compatible
chips. If no cache memory is installed, use the motherboard’s specifications to select the
correct SRAM chips or COAST module.
Determine the type of mounting available on the motherboard. It will be a cache slot,
cache sockets, or CELP socket. This is also valuable information to have when purchasing
the cache module.General Tips for Working on a Motherboard
After removing the motherboard from the PC, always place it on a flat, clean, and
static-free work surface. It is important to place the motherboard so it won’t flex or bend
downward when you are pressing memory or cache modules or chips into their sockets.
Always wear an antistatic wrist stra pwhen working with electronic com ponents. Kee p
antistaticmaterialsavailableforstoringcomponentstemporarilyorlonger,ifnecessary.Installing a COAST Module
COAST modules are keyed, which means they have a guide pin or notch on the leading
edgeofthemodulethatismatchedtoarelatedfeatureontheCELPsocketthatpreventsit
from being inserted into the socket incorrectly. Before installing the module into the(^166) PC Hardware: A Beginner’s Guide