How to Buy More RAM for an Acer Laptop Computer

Adding RAM (Random Access Memory) to your Acer laptop computer will speed up processes that require immediate memory usage. Your Acer laptop – or any laptop, for that matter – has two, main forms of memory: RAM and hard drive storage. While you will store the bulk of your information and installed programs on your hard drive, your laptop computer will need a suitable amount of RAM to access said information and run the installed programs. You will notice a drastic slow-down in the time it takes to access information and programs when there is a shortage of RAM. Follow these simple steps to ensure that you select the correct RAM for your particular machine.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Acer's Web Site
• Owner's manual
• Screwdriver

1. Assess the RAM supply. Check the amount of available hard drive space before you assume that a RAM upgrade is necessary. You may need to clean your hard drive, purging it of unneeded files. This is necessary if the hard drive has less than 25% available space.

2. Figure out which stick of RAM your Acer laptop requires. This step is often the trickiest, as computer manufacturer's use various sizes and speeds of RAM. A universal standard does not exist.

3. Consult your Acer laptop's owner's manual. Many Acer laptops provide RAM requirements and information in the owner's manual. Your first, and easiest option, is to consult the manual for the exact size and speed your machine requires.

4. Consult Acer's official Web Site. Point your Internet browser to www.Acer.com for detailed information regarding the size and speed of your laptop's RAM. While Acer's Web Site will inform you of the exact RAM your laptop requires, it will also list alternative forms of RAM that are compatible with your machine. You will need your laptop's model number handy. This is often located on the underside of your machine.

5. Open the RAM compartment on your Acer laptop. If you can not locate your owner's manual or access Acer's Web Site, grab a screwdriver and carefully remove the panel protecting your laptop's RAM. The panel is usually located on the underside of your laptop. This is a relatively simple procedure, as the speed of your RAM will be listed on the stick.

6. Purchase the compatible stick(s) of RAM. This step can be completed by visiting your local electronics retailer or ordering directly from a RAM manufacturer via the Internet. Remember, RAM is not computer-brand specific. However, some may be specific to a particular machine. Be certain that your laptop is able to accept increased RAM, prior to making your purchase. If you are uncertain, contact Acer via their Web Site. Be sure to provide them with your laptop's model number.

Resources

• Acer