How to Install RAM to Your Computer

RAM (Random Access Memory) is a set of integrated circuits for computer data storage that can be accessed in any order by the computer. In technology today or personal computers we use memory modules or DRAM. Many computers have used SRAM and DRAM chips but PDA’s while music players use flash memory. Installing Ram (Random Access Memory) in your computer is one of the easiest steps to upgrading your computer. The difficult part of installing RAM is knowing what type of RAM you need for your computer and how it is being used. Not all memory chips (RAM) fit all computers. As technology has advanced so has computer memory. Review tutorials in resources.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Memory
• Tutorials in Resources

1. Determine how much RAM you have. Checking the amount of RAM (Random Access Memory) you have is easy with any windows operating system your have. Whether you have windows XP or Vista just go to your System Properties. In the general information section you will find all the basic information about your computer. It will show your operating system, Registration and computer information, including memory

2. Find your make and model of your desktop or laptop computer. To identify your computer look at the front of the computer. If it is a standard manufactured computer you will find the name of the manufacturer on the front with the model number. Now turn your computer off and look on the back of the computer. You will find the model, serial number and manufacturer information. You’re off to a good start. You will find that identifying your make and model of a laptop is very similar. Open up your laptop or notebook and you will find a manufacturer name and model number. Then turn off your laptop and turn it over. You will find a manufacturer label with model, serial number and manufacturer information. You could check manufacturers sites for information on your computer systems.

3. 
    
   ppdigital

   Understand your operating system and RAM use. When it comes to Window XP and Vista these operating systems have tendencies to use some of the memory you install in your computer. This address space is used for support of system ROM (Read Only Memory), PCI Devices and graphic cards. So when you start your computer the BIOS identifies what hardware or components needs address space. Once your BIOS determines that information it will access what it has on board and then access the balance from the memory installed. That is why you might install 2 Gigs of memory, but your computer only reports you have 1.5 gigs.

4. Determine the amount of RAM and virtual memory you need. The more operations you are using on your computer the more memory you will need. If you are a gamer then you need more memory. If you are using graphics and drawing programs you will need more memory. You might want to max out your RAM and adjust your virtual memory. Adjusting your virtual memory is done in the control panel through the system icon. Go to the advance tab and select performance option.

5. Use online diagnostic tools for free. There are several memory testing tools on the internet. But for upgrading your computer memory I would use Crucial system scanner tool to find the right memory for your computer. This item is free and it will make suggestions for upgrades of your computers memory. If you are not upgrading right away you can keep the information for future upgrades.

6. 
    
   lorettaflame

   To install your RAM in a desktop computer, unplug your computer and use a static strap to discharge static from your body. If you are installing RAM in your desktop you will need to locate the screws that hold the cover on the case. Most cases have screws on the back. Remove the screws and slide the cover off. Lay down your computer and locate your memory chips. Some have 2 slots and others have 4 slots for memory chips. Once you locate your memory release each chip by pushing down the release springs on each side of the chips (top and bottom). Line up your new chips and place in memory slots. Then push on the top of the chip till you hear a click. Do the same at the bottom of the chip. Do the same to the other chips you are installing. Reassemble your computer and plug it in. Turn on your computer and allow the system to recognize your new memory.

7. 
    
   dave

   To install RAM in a laptop or notebook, unplug your laptop and remove the battery. Use a static strap to discharge static from your body before installing memory. Turn over you laptop and locate the memory cover. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screw and remove memory cover. Release your memory chip by pushing releases on the top and bottom of memory chips. Align new memory chips and lock into place. Replace memory cover and reinstall battery or plug in the laptop. Turn on your laptop or notebook and allow system to recognize new memory.

8. To install RAM in Mini netbooks you may face a bigger challenge. New netbooks advertise that upgrading memory is easy, but netbook manufacturers might be misleading in their advertisement. Some have an access panel for easy access while others are a little more difficult requiring you to remove eight or nine screws and dismantle the case itself. However, there might be limits to adding memory to Vista and XP Home past the 1 GB Ram. This limitation might have been decided by Microsoft or it might be an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) license limitation. Check with the netbook manufacturer before purchasing more memory.

Tips & Warnings

• Do your research for the best buy on computer memory.
• Check on warranty and service plans from manufactures.
• Always unplug your computers before opening.
• Remove battery from laptop before servicing.

Resources

• Crucial System Scanner
• How to install memory to PC
• How to install memory to laptop
• Asus Eee 4GB RAM Installation
• Acer ASPIRE ONE ram upgrade tutorial

[pamelaa75]

on 9/5/2009 Great article on how to install RAM to your computer 5*s and rec

[geekmommy4]

on 6/9/2009 Thanks for the tips on installing RAM! I've had to help tons of people do this...now I can just point them to your article! ;-)

[40skydiver]

on 6/7/2009 Great details on How to Install RAM to Your Computer. Thanks! 5*

[credit4you]

on 6/7/2009 I just did this last week I wish I would have seen your article before I started messing up my system, but I final fixed it. great tips 5* rec

[tinker2elvis]

on 6/6/2009 Very well written, I take a short cut, my brother in law does it and has a degree in computers:) 5 stars!!