How to Buy RAM for an Older Computer

Are you thinking of upgrading your old computer system? Older computers are only good for light data processing jobs. However, increasing the RAM on your computer will enable it to run many of the newer programs that require more memory. If you're considering buying RAM to maximize the capability and performance of your computer, follow these steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Choosing the Right RAM

1. Examine the your computer's configuration. Verify the brand and year of manufacture.

2. Note the operational capacity of the three most important components—the hard drive, the processor and the RAM.

3. Check the motherboard. Find out the number of RAM sockets provided. Also find out how many RAM modules your computer can take. Is it 32-pin or more?

4. Verify the type of RAM. Older computers generally have an EDO or SIMM types of RAM. These types are outdated.

5. Assess the maximum upgrade possible. For example, if your current RAM is 16 MB, you can upgrade it to a maximum of 32 MB. If your existing RAM is 32 MB, you can go up to 64 MB. In an exceptional case, you may upgrade it to 128 MB.

Purchasing RAM

6. Plan your budget. Decide on how much you are willing to spend on new RAM.

7. Search online using Google or Yahoo for companies that sell the size of RAM you wish to buy.

8. Browse online auction Web sites such as eBay, uBid.com and Overstock.com (see links below). You may find great deals on auction sites.

9. Compare the prices of different brands offering similar RAM type and size. Check out online buyers’ guides such as Epinions, Nextag and MySimon (see links below). These sites offer comparisons of various RAM chips and list vendors along with prices.

10. Buy RAM from retailers such as Circuit City or Best Buy (see links below). You might also visit any of these stores and learn more about your options.

11. Talk to the store’s technical expert or customer service representative and buy the RAM chip that best suits your computer.

12. Choose a payment method. When buying online, you will most likely have to pay by credit card or through PayPal (see link below). Verify the authenticity of the Web site before purchasing online. Look for the "lock" symbol in the status bar and if you roll your mouse pointer over it, it should state, "128 bit encryption."

Tips & Warnings

• Check for the warranty period. Remember the warranty period usually starts from the year of manufacture and not the sale date.
• Refer to the computer manual, if still handy. It will help you identify the RAM you need to buy.