The Raspberry Pi 4 has versions from 1GB to 8GB of RAM, allowing developers to select models that best suit their needs. With the coronavirus pandemic, the minicomputer had its supply affected, causing some models to disappear from the market for several months.
It is in this scenario that the enthusiast MadEDoctor of YouTube released a video in which modifies a 1 GB Raspberry Pi 4 to increase its RAM to 8 GB. The process makes it clear that the upgrade is a very complex task and requires soldering, maintenance of delicate components and, obviously, an 8 GB memory chip.
The first step is to remove the 1 GB memory chip soldered to the Raspberry Pi 4’s unique circuit. For this, the youtuber uses Kapton tape — an extremely heat-resistant material — to insulate the area around the RAM.
It is necessary to heat the board up to 250ÂşC using a hot air station with 60% air flow, and then, the temperature must be raised to 400ÂşC to allow the old chip solder to be deteriorated by the heat. Caution is essential, since soldering that is still solid can damage the electronic contact surface of the memory.
The enthusiast shows the process of cleaning the welding material, which must be done very carefully. A copper braid is used to remove lead solder debris, a little isopropyl alcohol and gentle pressure with a flexible cotton swab.
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The last step is to apply the new 8GB RAM memory chip. This step is complicated, as the contact surfaces are tiny and do not “fit”. O MadEDoctor states that the best way to reinsert the module is to check the bounding lines printed on the board and estimate equivalent distances at the edges.
With this, it is necessary to increase the temperature of the insulated surface once more with a reduced air flow, in order to prevent the memory from being displaced. Hardware needs to cool slowly to room temperature before it can be tested. Around 7 minutes into the video, you can see the system working with its new 8GB RAM chip.
“It’s almost impossible to find the Rasperry Pi in stock at authorized dealers in Europe, so the only option you have is the used product market, which is way over priced,” said the enthusiast. “If you have the equipment and experience, this can be an interesting do-it-yourself project.”