How to upgrade your PC’s memory (RAM)
By Susan Wilson
One of the easiest computer upgrades you can perform is to upgrade your Random Access Memory (RAM). More RAM means a faster computer and the ability to run more programs at once.
In order to upgrade your memory, you need to know two things: how much memory your motherboard will support and what type of RAM it takes.
The easiest way to check out the first issue is to look in the manual that came with your computer to see what it says about RAM. The second thing you can do if you’ve misplaced your computer manual, is to look your computer up online and see what the manufacturer’s Web site says.
Once you know how much RAM you can add and what type you need, you then need to know how much RAM you have. Most computers come with that statistic on a sticker on the front of the computer. If you looked up your computer model online that should also give you the statistic you need.
You also need to know how many memory slots you have on your motherboard. The easiest way to do this is to take the side of your computer off and look. That tells you what size RAM you will need to buy. If you have two slots and you want your computer to have 4 Gigabytes when you are done, then you will need two 2 Gigabyte strips of RAM.
Once you know how much RAM you need to purchase, you can either order it online from a site such as Tigerdirect.com, Memorystock.com, and Computer Memory Outlet. Local computer stores might have what you are looking for and so may Best Buy. It would be best to call before you make the trip to make sure they have what you want.
Now for the fun part. Once you have your memory in hand (still in its static free wrapper), turn your computer off, unplug it and turn it on its side with the the motherboard facing up.
Make sure you are either wearing a wrist strap that will release static electricity or touch the metal side of your computer before you proceed in order to disperse any static you might have picked up.
To release the RAM that is already in your computer press down on the tabs at both ends of the RAM stick. Your RAM should popup. Remove the RAM by holding the stick by both ends to prevent accidentally short circuiting the stick.
To put the new stick(s) in, take it out of the static covering holding on to the ends only. Don’t touch the metal part as it is too easy to destroy RAM by mistake.
Place the RAM in the same slot that you removed your old RAM from making sure to line it up between the grooves in each end piece. There is a notch that must be properly aligned for your RAM to fit correctly. If the notch is off, flip the RAM and reinsert/realign.
Once you have the memory in place press down on the memory stick evenly so that it snaps into place. Both of the tabs on the end should pop back up.
Reassemble your computer, plug it in, turn it on and check to make sure that your computer is showing the proper amount of RAM. If not unplug disassemble and make sure the memory is properly in place and is pushed down all the way.
If it is in place and firmly seated, you may have a bad stick of RAM. If so, then you can probably return it for a refund or replacement.
Hopefully, your computer came up quickly and when you checked your computer properties, it showed that all of the new RAM you just put in is in place and working.
Enjoy your upgraded computer.
Disclaimer: While due care has been used in preparing this tutorial, BLORGE disclaims all responsibility for any harm or loss arising from use or otherwise of the information provided. You should not rely nor act upon any of the information contained on this page without obtaining professional advice.
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on Wednesday, February 4th, 2009 at 10:42 pm
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