How to Upgrade the RAM on an eMachines Computer

Upgrading your eMachine's RAM doesn't take much time or effort.

The speed of your eMachines computer is controlled both by the type of processor installed and the amount of random access memory (RAM) it has available. Swapping out old RAM modules, or installing new ones in empty RAM ports, is an efficient way to increase the computer's speed inexpensively. Installing RAM is one of the simplest upgrades to perform on your eMachines computer, although it does require partially disassembling the machine.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips screwdriver

Instructions

1. Check the manual that came with your eMachines system and locate its system specifications. Take note of the amount of RAM installed in the computer, such as one gigabyte, and the maximum amount of memory its motherboard can handle, such as two gigabytes.

2. Turn off the eMachines computer's operating system. Unplug the power cable and then disconnect the cables for any other devices attached to the computer, such as the monitor and network cables.

3. Set the eMachines computer case on a flat work area with its side access panel facing up. Remove both of the screws at the back end of the access panel with a Phillips screwdriver.

4. Grab the back edge of the access panel and pull the panel off the eMachines case. Locate the vertical RAM ports on the motherboard, which are positioned to the right of the processor near the front end of the case.

5. Pull back the two retaining tabs that hold the RAM module in place if you are replacing one of the existing modules. Grip the edges of the module and pull it upward to remove it from the motherboard port.

6. Position the new RAM module over the motherboard port. Ensure that the notches on the lower end of the module are aligned with the holes on the port. Push the module down and lift up the retaining tabs.

7. Go through the process again with any other modules you are replacing. If you are installing a module in an empty socket, simply pull back the retaining clips and install the new module.

8. Set the access panel onto the side of the case and reconnect the two screws. Plug in the cables you removed earlier and turn on the eMachines computer.

Tips & Warnings

• The RAM modules you need for your eMachines computer are available through office supply stores or computer parts websites.

• Static electricity will ruin the RAM modules or any other parts located inside your eMachines computer. To prevent static electricity from causing problems, you need to properly ground yourself before opening the computer's case. Grounding yourself only requires pressing your hand against the bare metal tabs on the back end of the eMachines computer case.

References

• eMachines: Removing and Installing Memory

Resources

• eMachines: Support Documents