Upgrade Your Laptop's RAM Memory

RAM stands for "random access memory." The "random" part means that any byte of memory can be retrieved without touching the preceding byte. Installation of RAM is one of the easiest ways to speed up your computer; only hardware installation is needed, without any additional software. Compared to other parts on a computer, upgrading RAM is also relatively inexpensive. Read on after the jump to learn more about this relatively straightforward process.

Steps

  1. Save your work, shut down your computer, and close the display.
  2. Disconnect all external devices attached to the laptop (like printers, flash drives, and headsets).
  3. Unplug the A/C power cord and adapter.
  4. Turn the laptop upside down on a flat surface.
  5. Remove the laptop battery.
  6. Loosen the screws on the memory module compartment.
  7. Lift the compartment cover away from the computer.
  8. Remove the existing memory module(s)
    • Pull the retention clips on each side so that the module tilts up.
    • Grasp the edge of the memory and gently pull it out of the slot.
  9. Insert the new RAM module into the compartment.
    • Align the notched edge with the tab in the slot.
    • Press the module into the memory slot until it is properly seated (start at a 45 degree angle)
    • Press the memory down, applying pressure to both sides, until the clips snap.
  10. Align the tabs of the cover with the notches on the computer and close the cover.
  11. Tighten the screws on the memory compartment.
  12. Replace the battery, reattach the external devices, and plug the laptop back into the A/C outlet.
  13. Start your computer.



Tips

  • Memory for Windows XP is recommended at 512mb, and while 1Gb is recommended for Windows Vista, industry experts claim that 2Gb is the bare minimum for Windows Vista to work smoothly.
  • Find out what type of RAM is required for your computer. The manufacturer can often recommend the exact RAM you need. Find out the PC type, the RAM speed, and the capacity of your computer. It is important to know how many RAM ports you have if you intend to buy more than one chip or you want to keep the chip(s) you have currently.
  • There are 3 types of RAM, SD RAM(66Mhz-133Mhz), DDR RAM(200Mhz-400Mhz) and also the DDR2 RAM(400Mhz-1066Mhz). The DDR3 is also out there now (frequency:1333Mhz-1600Mhz).
  • RAMs that fall into the category type, usually is compatible with each other. E.g) A 533Mhz RAM stick will be compatible with a computer running at 667Mhz or 400Mhz.
  • Prices of memory chips fluctuate; therefore, purchasing it at the right time can save you up to 20%-30%. That's about $50 for a $200 RAM module
  • In general, the older your computer, the older the RAM.
  • RAM is like your cash and asset, the more the merrier.
  • RAM are available in different speeds, ranging from 66Mhz till the current 1066Mhz
  • Look out for premium RAM that provides lifetime warranty, so that you need not worry about any damage while using. This RAMs will normally cost about 10% more than regular RAM modules but provide more reliability and peace of mind.

Warnings

  • Be sure that you know what you're doing - if your laptop has an active warranty, it may be voided by opening the memory module compartment or fiddling around with the scary stuff inside. Make sure you're confident to know what to do, or you could end up with a broken laptop with a voided warranty!
  • Static electricity and moisture might damage your computer. Dry your hands with a towel and put your hands on grounded metal before starting.

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