How to Upgrade Memory (RAM)

Okay Folks,

Back by popular demand (really only by one person... :-) ) Here is another segment on "How to upgrade computer memory (RAM)". This is really very simple. So pay close attention. Most computers these days require more memory because of the demand we put on them to process so much information at the same time (multitasking). We are talking about Windows, Antivirus, Spyware, Internet, Downloads, Music, Video, Movies, Office and all of the other utilities that work in the background like chat, reminders, email etc. etc. Nowadays 1GB of RAM doesn't seem sufficient. Therefore upgrading your system memory (RAM) will provide you a substantial difference in performance.

Granted there are other forces at play when considering computer performance, i.e. Processor type and speed, Memory type like dual channel, DDR2 or now DDR3, and Hard drive configurations like RAID mirroring, rotational speed etc. This tutorial is based on the premise that all we need to do to increase performance is to upgrade memory. If you are running Windows XP I suggest a minimum of 1GB of RAM. If you are running Vista Home or Basic 1GB will suffice but if you have Premium, Ultimate or Business, I suggest a minimum of 2GB of RAM especially with Aero effects running. Now here we go. Ready? Okay:

Desktop Computer Instructions:

1. Make sure the computer is turned off and unplugged while doing this. We wouldn't want you to electrocute yourself. :-)

2. Prepare your working surface as described in my previous hub. "How to Build Your Own Computer". Make sure that you and your working area are free of any electrostatic and/or electromagnetic charge before touching anything. Tip: Make sure you are in a well lighted area... or have a small flashlight handy. I like using my keychain flashlight.

3. Next take the computer case off. Many computer cases are different in the way they come apart. If you have an HP, Compaq or Dell computer I suggest you send me the model and I'll try to find you the specific instructions on taking it apart. For the most part, your typical IBM clone, Emachine, Gateway or Whitebox system have screws on the back side of the case. You normally just have to take off one side of the screws and slide off only one side of the panel. It's a little tricky but normally it slides towards the back of the computer to remove. You might have to remove both sides of screws and then slide the entire case cover up from the computer. It is a "U" shaped design. Got it? okay great. You're doing fine.

2. You will see memory that kinda looks like this Click Here. Do you see them? Now they are held in place by a "white clip" at each end. All you need to do is pull them back or downward simultaneously and the memory module will pop right out of it's socket. Very easy and painless.

3. Now in order to make sure that you have the right memory, I suggest going here to the memory configurator. All you need to do is enter the make and model of your computer or the manufacturer part number etc. and it will tell you exactly what type of memory your computer requires.

4. Now that you know how to remove your memory and find the right one you need, let me guide you now on how to install it. This is going to be even easier than removing it, I promise. You can install the memory only one way. You can not go wrong. You will notice a notch at the bottom of the memory module next to the metal pins. See it? it's kinda like this __n____ Now take note to the fact that the notch is more to one side than the other. Now take a look at the slot on the motherboard where the memory goes. You might need a flashlight for this one. Notice how there is a notch embedded into the slot? This is to correspond to the notch on the memory module. All you do is line up the notch, slide the memory module in evenly, and give it a slight push downward until you hear it snap in place. Additionally the clips on the end will comfortably snap into place on both ends and wala! you did it!. Great job.

5. Now plug everything back up to the computer and turn her on. The memory will self configure. If for some reason the system doesn't start. Make sure you installed them firmly into the socket or remove one start the machine, etc to try and figure out if it's maybe a defective module or not. That does happen from time to time so don't panic. For the most part everything will be back in order and running like a purry little kitten. Once you have confirmed that everything is operational, put the case back on and you're done.

Notebook/Laptop Instructions:

This is going to be even easier. Follow instructions 1-2 as laid out above.

3. Turn the laptop on it's back. You will see a little cover with one tiny screw. you will therefore need a very small screwdriver. The screw usually doesn't come off all the way. It just unscrews enough to allow you to take the cover off.

4. There you will see the memory module. Just release the two clips on both ends of the memory module and just like that the memory module pops right out.

5. Look at the notches as described above. Its basically the same procedure. You can use the configurator to find the right module for your notebook/laptop as well.

6. Put the cover back the same way you took it off, only in reverse. Turn the notebook/laptop and everthing will configure itself. If you have problems, follow the troubleshooting procedure as described above to. That's it! I told you it would be very simple. We used to charge $29.99 where I used to work for this. And believe me when I say, that was $29.99 too much.

As always, please let me know if you have any questions or comments. I am available to help you anytime. Join my fan club.