Lenovo NM-C821 Onboard RAM Disable Guide – Hardware Mod for RAM Slot Activation

If you're working on the Lenovo NM-C821 motherboard and need to disable the onboard RAM (soldered memory) to enable external RAM slot use or bypass faulty integrated memory, this step-by-step guide covers the exact hardware mod process.

🧠 Why Disable Onboard RAM?

Dead or faulty onboard RAM causing boot loops or no display.
Upgrading memory where the onboard RAM is a limitation.
Diagnostics and repair – sometimes disabling onboard components isolates issues.

🔧 Steps to Disable Onboard RAM on Lenovo NM-C821

1. Remove Resistor RC1606

Locate RC1606 on the motherboard (typically near the RAM area).

Carefully desolder and remove this resistor. This step begins the onboard RAM disable process.

2. Stuff (Add) Resistor RC123 2K

    Find the empty pad labeled RC123 2K.

    Solder a 0-ohm jumper or equivalent resistor to this pad to redirect memory initialization away from onboard RAM.

3. Additional Step for Micron RAM Chips

If your motherboard uses Micron-branded onboard RAM, you’ll need to adjust an additional resistor:

    Move RC1607 to RC1608.