How to Add Memory to a Dell Desktop Computer

Adding memory to your Dell desktop computer is fairly easy to do. There are a couple of things that you might need and some great resources that you can take advantage of on the Internet that will help you accomplish the task. Make sure to read through the directions completely so that you have a complete understanding of what you will need to do. You can expect to accomplish the installation of your RAM in 15 minutes to an hour depending on your experience.

Things You'll Need

• RAM
• Grounding Strap
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Determine which type of memory, or RAM, that you will need to purchase for your Dell Computer. There are many different kinds of RAM available so it will be important to buy the right kind.

2. Visit Crucial's website to learn what type of RAM to purchase. The company offers online tools to help customers determine what type of RAM to purchase. First, you can opt to have a scan of your system to learn what kind of RAM you need. Or you can answer a series of questions like who manufactured your desktop computer and what product line it is from.

3. Purchase the type of RAM that you will need for your Dell Computer. You can do this easily through Crucial's website or head to a computer store to make your purchase.

Installing the RAM

1. Attach your grounding strap to your wrist so you do not have to worry about static electricity damaging any of the components in your computer

2. Shutdown your computer and unplug it from its power source.

3. Open the case. There are several different ways a Dell case can be opened. Look for thumbscrews on the back that you can undo to lift off a side of the case. Also look for simple screws. (They might need loosening with a Philips head screwdriver.) There are several Dell computers that have a button on the top and bottom of the case. These need to be pressed at the same time. Once pressed, the case should swing open like a book.

4. Take a good look inside of your computer once you open it. Locate where the RAM is located on your motherboard (the main circuit board).

5. Look closely at the RAM you see in your computer. Next to the RAM you should be able to identify empty RAM sockets where you will install the new RAM. You will be able to see a retaining clip on both ends of the RAM socket. These hold the module in place. Make sure that the clips are pressed outward in the open position on the empty sockets.

6. Pick up your new RAM module very carefully making sure to hold only each end.

7. Notice on the bottom gold section of the RAM module that there are notches in the edge. Take a look at your computer and notice the corresponding notches in the RAM socket. The notches will need to align when you install the RAM.

8. Insert the RAM module with the gold side pointed downwards into the RAM socket at about a 30-degree angle while keeping it level so one side does not go in more than the other side does. Remember to use the notches you identified in the previous step as guides.

9. Apply gentle pressure on the RAM module until you hear both of the retaining clips spring back into place.

10. Close the case once the RAM has been properly seated by following the same procedure that you used to open it. Plug your computer into its power source and press the "Power" button. Your computer should automatically detect that the new RAM has been added.

Tips & Warnings

• Static electricity is always a problem when working on any components inside of your computer. While many people might feel that a grounding strap is unnecessary, make sure that you do wear it to avoid a preventable disaster.

Resources

• Crucial Memory