How to Install an Additional Memory Board

RAM stands for random access memory.

Computer memory--also called RAM, which stands for random access memory--holds information while your computer's processor is working on any particular calculation or program. The RAM comes in long, thin circuit boards also referred to as sticks. Installing additional RAM is very basic; just make sure your motherboard has available slots to hold it, and that you purchase compatible RAM.

Instructions

1. Read your computer or motherboard's manual to find out how many RAM slots your computer has, what kind of RAM your computer takes and the highest amount of RAM that it can use. Purchase the additional memory from a computer retailer.

2. Open the computer case. The case will have a door that is screwed into to the back of the case with several Phillips screws. Unscrew the door and remove it.

3. Locate the memory slots, somewhere in the middle of the motherboard. At least one memory board should already be installed. Locate the white tabs on the side of the slots and make sure they are pulled back. Insert the memory straight down and push it in until the board snaps into place. The tabs will close. The memory will only go in correctly one way, so line up the pins on the board exactly with the connection on the slots.

References

• Henry Amon; Information Systems Specialist; Salisbury, Maryland