How to Add Memory to a Computer

By eHow Computers Editor

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Learning how to add memory to your computer is a skill that can save you a lot of money over the years. A lot of people resort to buying a whole new computer when adding more memory to the computer would solve the problem. Also, you can avoid having memory installed by a professional, which can cost an arm and a leg. Learning to add memory to your computer is a simple process.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Figure out how much RAM you currently have on your computer. To do so, go to your computer's control panel. Under "System," you can find how much RAM you have under the "General" tab.

Step2

Decide how much RAM you want to upgrade to. RAM usually can be bought in sizes of 128 MB, 256 MB and 512 MB. If you are adding memory to your computer to better run a specific video game or piece of software, check the user manual for the amount of RAM needed.

Step3

Determine what type of RAM your computer requires by looking in the computer's user manual. If you have misplaced your user manual, you can go to Kingston.com and use their memory search feature. Simply select the brand and model of your computer, and it tells you what type of RAM your computer requires.

Step4

Purchase the RAM module from a local computer store, if you need the RAM as soon as possible. You can also purchase RAM online at Crucial.com, which specializes in all memory needs.

Step5

Install the new RAM in your computer by following these basic steps. Turn off your computer, take off the casing and locate the RAM modules. Use your computer's user manual to locate the location of the modules if you are unable to find it yourself.

Step6

Line up the notches of your new RAM module and press it into place. Reconnect all cables, put the casing back on and turn on your computer. Check the amount of RAM in your control panel again to make sure that you installed the RAM properly.

Tips & Warnings

If you aren't comfortable adding RAM yourself, buy the RAM and then take it to a local computer store to have them install it for you.

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Comments

Gilly383 said

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on 8/8/2007 You need to make sure that any memory cards added are EXACTLY the same size (mb/gb) as the card(s) already in the machine. In many machines you may only double the present memory - i.e. add one additional card with the same memory.