Introduction
Follow this guide to replace or upgrade the RAM (aka system memory) in your Valve Steam Machine (2026).
The Steam Machine has two slots for DDR5-5600 SODIMM RAM modules.
What you need
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Power down your Steam Machine and disconnect the power cable.
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Unplug any remaining cables or accessories from all ports.
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Reposition the Steam Machine so the back panel is facing up.
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Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to fully loosen the two captive screws securing the back panel.
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Lift the top edge of the panel (near the screws) until the two locking clips release.
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Slide the panel towards the top edge and lift to remove it.
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Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to remove the two 7.3 mm‑long screws securing the inner assembly.
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Grip the inner assembly under the fan and lift it straight up and out of the shell.
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Set the inner assembly down so the SSD is on top.
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Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to remove the 5.1 mm‑long screw securing the rear USB and Ethernet port cable cover.
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Use the flat end of a spudger to pry up and disconnect the board's press connector.
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Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to remove the 5.1 mm‑long screw securing the rear USB and Ethernet port board.
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Reposition the inner assembly so the antenna marked AUX ANT is facing up.
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Lay a heated iOpener on the auxiliary antenna for two minutes.
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Tool used on this step:Tesa 61395 Tape$2.95
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Slide the flat end of a spudger under the antenna and lift to separate the adhesive.
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Reposition the inner assembly so the antenna marked MAIN ANT is facing up.
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Tool used on this step:Tesa 61395 Tape$2.95
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Slide the flat end of a spudger under the antenna and lift to separate the adhesive.
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Use a pair of angled tweezers to firmly grip the head of the fan cable connector.
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Gently rock the connector side-to-side while lifting to disconnect it.
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Reposition the inner assembly so the fan is facing you and the power cable socket is on the bottom.
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Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to remove the two 7.3 mm‑long screws securing the fan.
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Reposition the inner assembly so the microSD reader and two USB ports are facing up at the top edge farthest from you.
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Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to remove the two 5.1 mm‑long screws securing the front port cable cover.
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Use the flat end of a spudger to pry up and disconnect the board's press connector.
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Use the point of a spudger to lift and disconnect the three coaxial connectors, making sure to lift as close to the connector head as possible.
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Reposition the inner assembly so the microSD and two USB ports are at the top edge closest to you.
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Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to remove the two 5.1 mm‑long screws securing the HDMI and DisplayPort cable cover.
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Use the flat end of a spudger to pry up and disconnect the press connector on the HDMI and DisplayPort board.
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Use your fingers to gently peel the HDMI and DisplayPort board's cable off the metal frame.
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Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to remove the 5.1 mm‑long screw securing the SSD.
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Pull the SSD out of its socket at the angle it popped up at to remove it.
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Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to remove the two 5.1 mm‑long screws securing the SSD board and its cover.
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With one hand, hold the board down by the SSD socket.
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With your free hand, use the flat end of a spudger to pry up and disconnect the board's press connector.
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Use your fingers to gently peel the SSD board cable off the metal frame.
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Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to remove the four 12.8 mm‑long screws securing the power supply.
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With one hand, firmly secure the power supply.
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With your free hand, grip under the corner of the inner assembly so you're lifting up on the motherboard itself.
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Firmly pull the corner up until it disconnects from the power supply.
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Remove the motherboard and heatsink from the power supply and set it down so the motherboard is facing up.
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Simultaneously push the RAM module's two metal arms outward to disengage them.
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Remove the RAM.
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To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.
Take your e-waste to an R2 or e-Stewards certified recycler.
Repair didn’t go as planned? Try some basic troubleshooting, or ask our Answers community for help.