How to Upgrade PC Memory
Personal computers, both desktops and laptops, use high-speed Random Access Memory chips as a method of storing data that needs to be access quickly. PC memory is considered volatile because it is erased as soon as the computer is turned off. Many computers are equipped from the factory with only a fraction of the total amount of memory the computer supports in order to keep costs down. In fact, it is generally less expensive to upgrade your PC's memory yourself than to purchase it from the computer manufacturer. You can upgrade the RAM in your PC by inserting new larger RAM chips into the RAM slots on the motherboard.
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Instructions
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Power off and unplug the computer. If you are performing these steps on a laptop computer, remove the battery from the computer.
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Remove the side cover for a desktop computer, or the memory slot cover on the bottom of a laptop. Laptop memory slot covers use Phillips screws, while a desktop side cover may use screws or a movable lever.
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Insert the new memory into the memory slots, if any are available. If no memory slots are available, the existing memory must first be removed. RAM is notched so that it cannot be inserted incorrectly. Never force a memory module into the slot. Once inserted properly, the RAM is held in place with plastic or metal retention clips.
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Replace the side cover or slot cover and power on the computer. The new memory is detected automatically.
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Tips & Warnings
Refer to the specifications of your motherboard or computer to determine which type of memory to acquire. The most common forms of memory, as of 2011, are DDR2 and DDR3. Laptops use a specialized version of memory called SO-DIMMs, while desktop computers use regular DIMMs. DIMM stands for Dual In-line Memory Module.
