| On many late-486's and early Pentiums, external cache, or Level 2 cache, was installed in a slot. This was later abandoned in favor of on-board cache, which most modern boards have. If you are installing a newer board with on-board cache, you can skip this step. Likewise, if you're using a Pentium II or similar processor, the L2 cache is built into the chip, so the motherboards for these chips have no cache at all.
The cache module is usually called the COASt module. It is not universal. Like RAM, there are different types, and you need to make sure you are installing the right type.
Follow this simple procedure to install your COASt module, if you have one:
1.)
Line It Up. This is pretty easy. COASt modules are keyed to prevent incorrect installation. This is done by placing an indent on some point other than the halfway point, thereby leaving a different amount of contacts on one side of the indent than another.
2.)
Insert The Module. Again, easy. Once lined up, push the module into the slot. This may require a bit of pressure, but don't force it. Make sure the motherboard is on a flat surface so that you don't flex the board. Like a card, it may be easier to
rock the module, installing one side, then the other.
3.) Check Your Work. You're pretty much done. Just make sure that the contacts are almost all the way into the slot, and that, obviously, the module sticks straight off the
motherboard.
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