Adding RAM to Increase Performance

Upgrading your RAM can be simple and very effective.

Adding RAM to your computer can turn it from a sluggish antique to a fast-paced monster. Though RAM has its limitations, often it is the first step to take when looking to upgrade your computer for a relatively low price. RAM stands for random access memory and works in tandem with your computer's processor to store temporary data used for quick access. Adding more RAM will allow you to multi-task better, and installation is not as daunting as it may seem.

Instructions

1. Consult your computer or motherboard's manual. Your first step in choosing the right RAM is finding out what type of RAM your motherboard can take. RAM comes in three types: DDR, DDR2 and DDR3. The higher the DDR number, the faster the RAM will operate. Most motherboards only accept one kind of DDR memory, so determine which type of RAM your computer uses. Also, find out how many pins your motherboard takes in its memory slots (e.g. 240 pin).

2. Determine how much RAM you currently have. In Windows, open the Control Panel and double-click the System icon. Your amount of RAM will be displayed under the General tab. Mac users can find their RAM amount by clicking the Apple icon and selecting "About this Mac..."

3. Choose compatible RAM. Select RAM that matches your pin count on your motherboard, and that also matches the type of memory (e.g. DDR3). Generally, it's best to go with reputable manufacturers when buying RAM, such as Kingston, Crucial or Corsair. You also want to consider how much RAM you want to put in. Two to four gigabytes (GBs) of memory is a suitable amount for power users. You may want less or more depending on the types of applications you run on your computer. The more GBs, the faster your computer is able to access large amounts of data. Also, RAM usually performs better in two matched sticks, as opposed to just one stick of memory (i.e. two 1 GB sticks versus one 2 GB stick).

4. Install your RAM. Make sure your computer is properly shut down with the power turned off before installing new components. Open your computer case and locate the memory slots on your motherboard. Push down to release the latches keeping your old RAM in place, and replace with your new sticks of memory. The latches should snap closed, locking your new RAM onto the motherboard.

5. Boot up your computer. Check to make sure the RAM is recognized properly by your operating system via the same method mentioned in Step 2.

Tips & Warnings

• Many RAM/motherboard manufacturers offer a compatibility list on their respective websites.

• Some motherboards require you to install two RAM sticks in specific slots. Consult your documentation to establish which slots you must install your RAM into.

• Wear an anti-static wrist strap, or properly ground yourself, when working with PC hardware. Failure to do so can result in a dead computer.

• Avoid touching the RAM's circuitry. Always handle memory sticks by the edges.

References

• PCWorld: How to Upgrade Your PC's RAM
• Computer Hope: Determining How Much RAM Is Installed and Available

Resources

• Kingston
• Crucial
• Corsair: Memory Solutions