How to Install Extra RAM Into a Laptop

Installing extra RAM increases performance speed.

Having the correct amount of random access memory (RAM) in your laptop can make the difference between booting up and beginning the task at hand versus staring at a loading screen for minutes on end. Adding RAM yourself is a cost-effective way to upgrade your laptop's performance.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Anti-static wrist band (optional)
• RAM modules

Instructions

1. 

   Review the owner's manual and warranty.

   Refer to your owner's manual or manufacturer's website for the type of RAM modules necessary for your laptop model. Check the manufacturer's warranty to ensure that opening your laptop yourself will not void the warranty. Assess the amount of RAM you need based on your computer usage.

2. 

   Unplug your laptop before beginning.

   Shutdown your laptop and unplug it. Allow it to cool down for approximately 10 to 15 minutes before beginning. If using an anti-static wrist band, put it on now.

3. 

   Unscrew and open the door to the RAM storage area.

   Turn the laptop over and locate the opening for the memory storage. The location for this will be listed in your owner's manual. If you do not have one, most often it will be a small door on the bottom of your laptop. Remove the screws with your Phillips-head screwdriver and open the door. If you are not wearing an anti-static wrist band, touch something metal in the computer now to get rid of any static electricity in your body.

4. 

   Check if both RAM slots are filled.

   You will see two slots for RAM storage. If one slot is empty, insert your new RAM module into this slot. If both spaces are filled, you will need to remove one and replace it with your new module.

5. 

   Insert RAM into slot.

   Look for the tabs on the sides of the RAM modules that are already in the laptop. To remove a RAM module, press gently on these tabs until it ejects. To insert RAM, slide the module into place and gently press down until it clicks into place.

6. 

   Boot up laptop.

   Close the door to the memory storage area. Replace all screws. Boot up your laptop and verify that all is working well.

Tips & Warnings

• To assess the amount of RAM you need, visit crucial.com.

• Do not install RAM into netbooks without researching your warranty. Many netbook warranties are voided if you open them up.

• Make sure to either wear an anti-static wrist band or touch something metal before touching anything inside your laptop.

References

• Crucial: How Much Memory Do You Need?
• Apple: MacBook Pro--How to Remove or Install Memory

Resources

• Crucial: The Memory Experts