How to Get More RAM

Level of difficulty: Intermediate

Each year, the progress of technology requires users to enhance the efficiency of their computer systems. The installation of more RAM and continuous upgrade is required by a number of memory intensive applications with rich graphics. Memory size matters especially when the user is using several programs simultaneously. RAM is the acronym for Random Access Memory, a component of computer systems responsible for processing information. It is where files that are to be worked on are placed by the computer. The RAM is so much like a workbench and the bigger this workbench is, the bigger is the file that could be worked on. A bigger RAM allows users to work on bigger files and at the same time have more room for other applications such as Word Processor or Photo Editor.

Materials Needed:
- Screwdriver
- anti-static wristband or some kind of grounding device
- RAM chips
Step 1
Before adding more RAM to the computer system, users would have to first determine the size and capacity of the existing RAM. In order to accomplish this, boot the computer and then wait for the Windows Operating System to load. Click on 'My Computer' and then right click on 'Properties'. This should open the Systems Properties.
Step 2
What should follow is the user clicking on the tab labeled as 'General'. Check the physical memory for the purpose of ascertaining the total amount of RAM installed in the computer. The sizes of RAMs usually range from 32Mb to 128Mb in much older computer models and 256 to 512Mb or higher in newer computers. Check on the usage and then for the taskbar to open, press Ctrl + Alt + Del. Click on the Task Manager. Press the tab labeled as 'Performance' to check on the memory usage of each application in the computer.
Step 3
After having evaluated the amount of RAM required by the computer, check on whether the computer system has more than enough open slots capable of holding additional RAMs. The new RAM should be able to match the configuration and specifications of the existing RAM.
Step 4
The installation of additional RAM would have to be preceded by the shutting down of the computer. When it is shut down, it must remain connected to the power source. This is then followed by the disconnection of all of the peripheral devices like the monitor and the keyboard from the computer.
Step 5
The next step involves the removal of the cover of the computer. Users are required to ground themselves to the computer using professional grounding equipments such as anti-static wristbands. The other cards or internal components should then be removed so that the RAM sockets could easily be accessed. Computers could have a 164-pin or a 72-pin RAM sockets depending on when they were manufactured.
Step 6
The new RAM always comes with documentation for reference purposes. The installation of DIMM or dual in-line memory module or SIMM or single in-line memory module chips depends on the kind of RAM bought. When picking up DIMM or SIMM chips, take care not to touch the pins. Locate the notched end when adding the SIMM chip and then turn the chip so that it is parallel with the RAM card. Adding DIMM chips involves inserting it straight in. The DIMM has to be perpendicular to the computer’s motherboard.
Step 7
In order to lock the SIMM into place in the socket, locate the retaining clips. As for the DIMM chips, use the side clips and then gently pull on the module to make sure that it is secure. Put back all the cards and internal components that have been removed earlier and reconnect the peripheral devices such as the mouse, keyboard, and monitor.
Step 8
Turn on the computer to check on the amount of RAM. When the amount of RAM displayed is incorrect, turn the computer off, remove the modules and then reinstall. After doing so, reboot the computer in order to verify the RAM that has just been installed.

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