Introduction: Upgrading the Asus Chromebox CN60 / M004U

By
About: Slinky Harmonics Engineer by day...

In this instructable, I'll be upgrading the stock Asus Chromebox... from 2GB of RAM to 8GB of RAM...

Ironically, Asus gave their Chromebox a number depending what you wanted to buy... i.e.:

Chromebox CN60 (VESA mount included)

Chromebox M004U (No Keyboard & mice included)

Chromebox M075U (Keyboard & mice included)

Chromebox M107U (better CPU and more RAM)

... etc...

However, they all have the same layout and the same upgradability... So, no need to worry if you have or may have the correct unit.

Now, you might be wondering why I am not upgrading the SSD drive... well, the stock SSD is more than enough for the Chrome OS. So, there is no need to waste money on that. Also, depending on when and where you got your Chromebox you might already have 1TB of online storage included with your purchase...

For this upgrade you will need the following:

2 X 4GB DDR3L 16800 SODIMM (1.35V)

1 X Spudger / Spatula or plastic card.

1 X Phillips screwdriver

Step 1: Cracking It Open!

The design of the Asus Chromebox gives a generous space around the border. So, I took the spudger and pried the rubber pads out of the way. I stuck them right next to the area where they were before so, I do not need to replace them back after I am done...

Step 2: Pop the Bottom!

So, now using your fav. tool pry around the edge of the Chromebox. This will pop the bottom nicely, remove it and set it aside...

By the way, you might want to keep an eye on those custom screws... if you lose one, you won't be able to find it anywhere...

Step 3: Basic Parts...

I have labeled some parts of the Chromebox which might be of interest to you. Note the RAM slots, SSD drive, WiFi card... all replaceable if needed be...

Step 4: Replace the RAM...

So, locate the little retainer clips on the side of the RAM module...

Push both sides, RAM module will pop up, pull and set aside.

Replace with the new 4GB RAM modules, make sure they are seated properly...

Reassemble, in reverse order...

Now, plug the power cord and test your Chromebox. It should just boot up and go to the login screen. You'll now notice that videos from sites such as youtube will be smoother. Games will actually work correctly and are snappy... etc...

Congratulations you are now done... enjoy!