How to Know How Much RAM Can Be Added

Computers come with various amounts of RAM which can range from 512 megabytes to 1024 megabytes on a desktop as well as a laptop computer. Sometimes this is not enough to run programs and more needs to be added. There is however a limit to the amount of memory that can be added to some types of computer systems. Older computers required RAM to be added in equal amounts or the system would not recognize it. Adding more RAM to a computer requires knowing how much RAM the computer system can support.

Instructions

1. Get the computer make and model number as different kinds of memory have been used in computers from many manufacturers. A computer's model number can be found on the front face or cover.

2. Read through the manual that came with the computer. The manual will detail how much memory can be added.

3. Look in the computer's BIOS setup to see the how much memory is installed and the type being used. Pressing the F2 key on most machines when the computer is starting up will load the BIOS.

4. Open the computer case to see how many memory slots are available. Most computers come with only two memory slots in which to add more memory.

5. Upgrade old memory modules if it is necessary to increase the amount of available memory. A computer may only have a minimum amount of memory which can be replaced.

Tips & Warnings

• Always buy the amount of memory that a system will support.

• If the wrong amount of memory is used the system may not recognize it. Go to an online merchant that sells computer memory. Crucial.com is a good web site that includes a feature to that will provide information about the type of memory that can be used in specific computers.