This guide will provide user's of the Akai MPC500, MPC1000 & MPC2500 with important information and installation instructions on the Akai EXM128 RAM expansion by Akai Professional.

Understanding static electricity

It is very important to understand static electricity before installing any type of RAM in your MPC. Static electricity can damage your MPC. Ensure that you work in a static-safe area by clearing any papers or plastic bags from the work space. You must ground yourself to avoid "shocking" your MPC. Grounding yourself removes any static electrical charge your body might be carrying. You can ground yourself by wearing anti static wrist straps. Another method is to turn your computer off and touch an unpainted metal part of your computer case with your hand. Plant your feet and do not walk around as walking can produce static electrical build-up.

Important things to consider before installation

- Handle the EXM128 very carefully as it is very sensitive to static electricity.
- To avoid malfunction do not touch the gold plate terminals on the EXM128.
- The EXM128 is designed for the MPC500, MPC1000, & MPC2500. Do not use it for other devices.
- Only 1 EXM128 can be installed in the MPC500, MPC1000 & MPC2500.

Installation Instructions

Note: To install the EXM128 you will need a Phillips screwdriver.

#1. Unplug the MPC before installing the RAM expansion board.

#2. Flip the MPC around so you are looking at the bottom. Tip: Place the MPC on a soft surface such as a pillow to protect the unit.

#3. Locate the steel plate, remove the 2 fixing screws and remove the cover.

#4. Place the EXM128 board matching the connectors on the MPC board and press it firmly until the click is heard. Be sure to secure the EXM128 with the clamps.

#5. Replace the cover and fix it with the screws to complete the installation. Ensure that the screws are tightened securely to avoid malfunction.

#6. Plug the MPC power cable back in and turn on the unit. If the installation was successful the LCD display should now read 128MB of RAM.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Akai EXM128?
A: The Akai EXM128 is a RAM expansion memory chip for the Akai MPC500, MPC1000 & MPC2500.

Q: What does the EXM128 do?
A: The Akai EXM128 expands the RAM in your MPC unit increasing the number and/or size of the samples you can run simultaneously. More Ram = More sampling options.

Q: What is RAM?
A: RAM (Random Access Memory) is a space where you can load sounds or data temporarily.

Q: If I turn my MPC off, do I lose data in RAM?
A: Yes. The data loaded into RAM will be deleted when you turn off the MPC. If you want to save your recordings you need to save to a memory card,  the internal hard drive or transfer the data to a PC or MAC through USB.

Q: What is a MB?
A: A MB (Megabyte) is a unit that represents the size of the memory.

Q: How much RAM does the Akai MPC500, MPC1000 & MPC2500 come with?
A: The Akai MPC500, MPC1000 & MPC2500 come standard with 16MB (megabytes) of internal RAM.

Q: What happens to the standard 16MB (megabytes) of RAM when the EXM128 is installed?
A: The standard memory (16MB) is ignored when the EXM128 is installed.

Q: How much recording time is available with the standard 16MB of RAM?
A: Recording time is 2 minutes and 16 seconds in MONO.

Q: How much recording time is available with the 128MB memory expansion?
A: Recording time is 24 minutes and 28 seconds in MONO.

Q: Does Akai Professional recommend self-installation?
A: No. Akai Professional does not warranty any malfunction or damage caused by self-installation. They recommend that the EXM128 be installed by a professional dealer or by an authorized Akai Professional service center.

Disclaimer: HipHopTools provides this information as a reference only and cannot be responsible for any damage caused by this installation.

If you found this guide useful please take a moment and vote below.

© HipHopTools 2007. All rights reserved.