How to Pick the Right Memory for Your Computer

Operating systems are updated on a regular basis and newer versions are designed to enhance system functions. To keep up to date with the latest operating systems, users can upgrade the computer's main memory (called RAM or random access memory). Memory cards (called RAM modules) are commercially available from computer distributors and technical support providers. Each computer model uses a specific RAM module and has a maximum RAM capacity. Users can determine their computer's current installed RAM and maximum RAM capacity indirectly or directly.

Things You'll Need

• Computer owner's manual
• Screwdriver

Instructions

Mac

1. Select "About This Mac" under the Apple logo in the top menu bar in your Finder.

2. Click the "More Info..." button to open the System Profiler utility.

3. Review the amount of memory currently installed under "Hardware Overview" (main frame of the window).

4. Select "Memory" under the "Hardware" section of the Contents frame (right frame).

5. Write down the information for each line (size, type and speed) under the "Memory Slot" column (in the main frame of the window) to determine the type of memory (RAM) card for your computer model.

Windows PC

1. Select "My Computer" on your desktop with a single click.

2. Select "Properties" from the top menu bar under "File."

3. Click the "General" tab, if it is not displayed as the main window.

4. Write down the amount of memory (RAM) that is currently installed (information is located at the bottom of the window).

5. Consult your owner's manual for specifications regarding the number of RAM slots, maximum capacity for each slot, maximum RAM capacity for your system and type of RAM module used (includes RAM module speed and number of pins).

Windows PC-RAM Examination

1. Shut down your computer and leave it plugged in.

2. Unscrew the case of your computer. Laptops have the screws on the underside of the case; desktops have screws on the back of the case. Set the screws aside.

3. Touch the case to ground any static electricity from your body.

4. Locate the green and black cards for the RAM modules and write down the number of empty adjacent slots (if any).

5. Gently depress the two narrow sides of one card to unlock the holding clips. The RAM module will be released at a 30- to 45-degree angle.

6. Gently slide out the RAM module from the slot and write down the module information on the label: size, type and speed.

7. Slide the RAM module back into the slot (at the same angle it was released for removal).

8. Gently depress the two narrow sides of the RAM module to lock the holding clips so that the module locks in a flat position.

9. Repeat steps 5 to 8 with the other RAM module, if desired.

10. Replace the computer case and screws; secure the case by tightening the screws.

Tips & Warnings

• To optimize your upgrade, check the maximum amount of memory (RAM) that your computer can use.

• Access the Crucial Memory Advisor from MySuperPC.com for memory specifications based on your computer model (see Resources).

References

• Apple Support: iMac---Memory Specifications and Upgrades
• PC World: Upgrade Guide
• Microsoft: At Home---Add More Memory to Your Computer

Resources

• MySuperPC.com: Computer Memory Upgrade-Crucial memory Advisor