Apple MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) - Manual (Page 45)

Chapter 3 Boost Your MacBook Pro 45
Installing Additional Memory
Your computer has two memory slots that you access by removing the bottom case.
Your MacBook Pro comes with a minimum of 4 gigabytes (GB) of 1066 MHz Double
Data Rate (DDR3) Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) installed.
Each memory slot can accept an SDRAM module that meets the following
specifications:
 Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format
 30 mm (1.18 inches)
 204-pin
 2 GB or 4 GB
 PC3-8500 DDR3 SO-DIMM 1066 MHz Type RAM
You can add two 4 GB memory modules for a maximum of 8 GB of memory. For best
performance, fill both memory slots and install an identical memory module in each
slot.
To install memory in your MacBook Pro:
1 Follow steps 1 through 3 beginning on page 37.
Important: When you remove the bottom case, you expose sensitive internal
components. Avoid touching anything other than the memory assembly when you
remove or add memory.