How to Tell Which RAM Chip You Need

A module of RAM

Random access memory, or RAM for short, is an integral computer hardware component that can impact how fast a computer runs. Upgrading your RAM may increase your ability to multitask and run hardware-intensive programs. Before upgrading RAM, however, it is essential that you know which type of RAM chips or modules to buy, since computer motherboards often have limited RAM compatibility. There are several ways to determine the type of RAM you need; it is often easiest to use a memory adviser tool hosted by a RAM manufacturer.

Things You'll Need

• CPU-Z freeware tool

Instructions

Use the Crucial Memory Advisor

1. Go to the Crucial website (See resource link 1 at the bottom of this page.).

2. Find the area called "Crucial Memory Advisor™ tool" and select your computer manufacturer, product link, and model number from the three dropdown lists labeled "Step 1, 2 and 3."

3. Click the "Find it" button. Detailed information about your computer and potential RAM upgrades will appear in the next Window.

Use the Corsair Memory Search

1. Go to Corsair's website (See resource link 3 at the bottom of this page.).

2. Scroll down to the area called "Memory Search," and then select your system type, manufacturer and model from the dropdown menus provided.

3. Click the "Search" button. Information about your system and recommended RAM upgrades will be displayed on the following page.

Use CPU-Z and Search for Motherboard Support

1. Go to resource link 2 at the bottom of this page and download the CPU-Z freeware tool. Select a download link that says "No install."

2. Run cpuz.exe when the download is complete and then click on the "Main Board" tab. Detailed information will be listed about your motherboard such as the manufacturer and the model number.

3. Go to the website of your motherboard manufacturer and search for support information such as user manuals and technical specifications about your specific motherboard model. Oftentimes motherboard makers will have information available as to what type of RAM their motherboards can use.

Tips & Warnings

• Your computer manufacturer may be able to recommend RAM upgrades for your machine on its website. Big computer vendors like Dell, HP and Gateway often allow users to enter the name and model of their computers and will list recommended hardware upgrades.

References

• DDRmemoryupgrades: How to identify the size of RAM modules?
• Microsoft: Add more memory to your computer

Resources

• Crucial: RAM Upgrade Tool
• CPU-Z Diagnostic Tool
• Corsair Memory advisor