Nucleus SSD/RAM Upgrades

Nucleus SSD/RAM Upgrades

If you're a Nucleus owner and are getting close to hitting the available memory (RAM) for your local library or getting crashes from having too large a Roon library size, or you're suffering from SSD-related hardware issues, please see below for Roon's official suggestions for SSD/RAM replacement or upgrade. 

Nucleus RAM 

For increasing your Nucleus One / Titan RAM

Requirements: DDR4 2666 MHz CL19 - ECC Type = Non-ECC, Form Factor = SODIMM, Pin Count = 260-pin, PC Speed = PC4-21300, Voltage = 1.2V, Rank and Configuration = 1Rx16, 1Rx8 or 2Rx8

For increasing your Nucleus Rev A or Rev B RAM 

Suggested: Crucial DDR4 2666 MHz CL19
Requirements: DDR4 2666 MHz CL19 - ECC Type = Non-ECC, Form Factor = SODIMM, Pin Count = 260-pin, PC Speed = PC4-21300, Voltage = 1.2V, Rank and Configuration = 1Rx16, 1Rx8 or 2Rx8

Step-by-step guide for replacing Nucleus RAM

Be sure to have a recent Roon backup or two saved!

1. Power Down and Unplug the Nucleus
  1. Safely stop Roon Server and power down the Nucleus via the webUI
  2. Unplug all cables, including power and network cables, from the Nucleus.
2. Open the Nucleus Case
  1. Remove Screws: Use a small screwdriver to remove the screws securing the top cover of the Nucleus.
  2. Lift the Cover: Carefully lift and remove the top cover to access the internal components.
3. Install the New RAM
  1. Locate the RAM Slot: Find the RAM slot on the motherboard.
  2. Remove Old RAM (if upgrading): If you’re replacing the existing RAM, gently release the clips and remove the old RAM module.
  3. Insert New RAM: Align the new RAM module with the slot and gently press it down until it clicks into place, ensuring the clips secure it.
4. Reassemble the Nucleus
  1. Replace the Cover: Put the top cover back on and secure it with the screws you removed earlier.
5. Power On the Nucleus
  1. Reconnect All Cables and power on the Nucleus.
  2. Check Functionality: Ensure that the Nucleus starts up correctly and that Roon operates as expected. You can also review the Nucleus webUI again. 

Nucleus M.2 SSD

For replacing or upgrading the M.2 SSD (which holds the Roon Database only, not music files):

Suggested: ‎TS256GMTE110S
Requirements: M.2 PCIe Gen3x4 NVMe

After replacing the SSD, please follow the instructions in this article to reinstall the Roon OS. This process will install the ROCK version of the operating system on your Nucleus device.

Once the installation is complete and your Nucleus is up and running with the ROCK OS, you’ll need to request a reinstallation of the original Nucleus OS. To do this, please follow these steps:

  1. Go to the Roon Community Support section and click the "Get Help" button.

  2. Select "I'm having trouble with my Nucleus hardware."

  3. Choose your Nucleus model from the list.

  4. Select "I've recently replaced my Nucleus SSD, and I need the operating system reinstalled."

  5. When prompted, choose "Yes, replacing the SSD allowed the Nucleus to boot, I have ROCK working and I am ready to flash ROCK back to the Nucleus Operating System."

Continue answering the remaining questions — they are straightforward — and this will generate a request to our RMA team. You will then be contacted directly via email with instructions for the next steps.

Nucleus Internal Music Storage

For increasing your Nucleus Rev B Internal Storage (to hold music files):

Suggested: User preference 
Requirements: 2.5" HDD or SSD, 7/9mm for Nucleus Rev A and up to 15mm for Nucleus Rev B

If you encounter any issues or have any questions during the process, get in touch with Roon Technical Support.

Info
Please note: The Nucleus is sold in a tested and recommended configuration. In the event a user modification results in unexpected behavior or a unit malfunction, warranty coverage can be at risk.

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