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The Basic Approach to Upgrading RAM

How many times have you heard your computer needs more memory?  Computers are supposed to be smart, so why do they need more memory?  Just like people, computers get older and their mind may not work quite as well as it used to.  Unlike with people; however, computer memory loss can be completely repaired. 

 

Many make the mistake of confusing memory with the hard drive.  These are two entirely different components.  The hard drive is simply a storage device, sort of like a purse is for women.  Memory, or RAM, is temporary storage for your computer.  Think of RAM as the mental to-do list.  You have to remember the list until you’ve finished everything on it, then you throw it away. 

 

RAM, or Random Access Memory, is the area of the computer where your processor works, programs run, and information is stored while in use.  The more memory your computer has, the more you can do at one time.  If you’ve ever noticed programs taking longer to open than usual, or not being able to do run several applications at once without some type of slow down or error message, then you need to upgrade your computer.

 

RAM is incredibly easy to purchase and install.  First of all, you need to check with your computer manufacturer to see what the maximum allowed RAM is.  Some computers can only handle so much, no matter how much memory you have.  If you do not know your manufacturer, then it’s time to check your motherboard and BIOS.  This information is displayed when your computer first boots.  It may take a few times to catch the name and version.  Common names are Pheonix, AMI, and Award.

 

As a note of caution, computer components are extra sensitive to static electricity.  Having an anti-static wrist strap or fairly static free area to work on your computer is highly recommended.

 

Now it’s time to see what type of RAM you need.  This information will be printed on the current RAM in your computer.  Open up your case and look for an area of rows that look like bookmarks standing on their sides.  You will have at least one module, but probably more.  You can only have as many RAM modules as you have slots.  It is also recommended that each slot have the same size memory module, but this isn’t required by any means.

 

Before buying RAM, you need to know the type of RAM, number of pins, and size that you’re looking for.  Most computers have at least 512 Kb, but the recommended is 1 GB.  You can add the RAM modules for the desired amount of purchase the desired size in one module.  Buying a larger module in the beginning will allow for more expansion later.

 

If you’re unsure of what you’re buying, compare your current RAM modules with images online to see exactly what you need.  TigerDirect.com, NewEgg.com, and ZipZoomFly.com are good places to do your comparisons. 

 

Once you’ve purchased your memory, remove your old if you need to by pushing the locks on either side of the module to the sides.  This allows the memory to be removed easily by pulling straight up.  With the locks still in the open position, push your new module in firmly, but gently so as not to break any of the pins.  The locks should pop back into place when the module is securely in place. 

 

Reboot your computer, and let the boot process recognize the new hardware.  Once everything is loaded, right click My Computer. Go to Properties and make sure the correct amount of RAM is showing at the bottom of the properties screen.

 

Congratulations.  You’ve now successfully upgraded the memory in your computer.

By: C.D. Crowder
Published: 08/08/08


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    7 Posted Comments:

    @ 9:13 am 08/28/08 by Nax05
    Heh heh..If I ever need internal work done on my PC, I always get a friend to do it..I know I'd mess something up if I tried doing this myself..
    Reply to this Comment

    @ 3:36 pm 08/28/08 by R. Elizabeth C. Kitchen
    I like the way you compared it to human memory. I do need to add more memory to my computer.
    Reply to this Comment

    @ 10:30 am 08/29/08 by Willow Sidhe
    Thanks for the info. This was very informative. I'm no good with this stuff but luckily I have a roommate who tells me when it's time for me to upgrade. hehe
    Reply to this Comment

    @ 3:55 am 08/30/08 by Xiaoyu Yang
    I'm not well into computers and have never tried to learn something. I think I'll set aside some time to learn about computers.
    Reply to this Comment

    @ 5:56 pm 09/04/08 by yourstrulyisabel
    Hey good tips! I'm a bit dumb about computers but I like working on it. I am actually planning to have my desktop upgraded. Atleast now I know whats causing it to slow down and what hardware to have it replaced. Can laptops be upgraded too? I wish they can cause I like my laptop alot. Its more convenient for me to use.
    Reply to this Comment

    @ 9:16 pm 09/16/08 by C.D. Crowder
    Laptops can be upgraded. Sometimes it can be harder to upgrade laptops than desktops, but RAM is one of the easier things to upgrade. Just check your manufacturer's website for details on upgrading RAM. Normally there is a troubleshooting and repair manual you can download online.
    Reply to this Comment

    @ 3:24 am 09/17/08 by valiantdude
    Hii,
    Nice to read out your knowledge about computers. As a computer professional many times i have to face some difficult problems. For beginner or people who don't have enough knowledge about hardware part of computers, your article can be quite useful.
    Reply to this Comment

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