A beginner's guide to upgrading RAM

Your PC - personal computer or laptop computer uses RAM (Random Access Memory) to load files and applications that you want to work with. It is not uncommon to keep adding applications to your computer over time, until it begins to slow down. Use this guide to add extra memory and breathe new life into your computer once again.

How much RAM you have

On your Windows PC, click on your Start button, go to Run and type Dxdiag in the window dialog box. A new window will pop up with information including the amount of RAM that you have. On your Mac computer, click on the Apple icon on the top left corner and click on More info.

System information

Make a note of your computer’s brand - Hewlett Packard - model name - pavilion 7920 - and model number - something like 15875300361151. You will be asked for this information when buying memory module for your computer. Your model number You may not have a problem getting your computer's brand and model name. However, to find your computer’s model number, look in the label located on the side or at the back of your computer cabinet or under your laptop. Getting help online Another good alternative to gather this and other information is by using a special application. You can use CPU-Z, Speccy or Crucial System Scanner. You can download these small and reliable applications online for free. Their function is to gather all kinds of information about your computer, including all the data that you will need to buy the RAM for your computer.

Types of RAM

RAM comes in many configurations - like SDRAM, EDO, FPM, RAMBUS, DDR, DDR2 and DDR3, depending on your computer system and age. Your computer manual will tell you what type of RAM you have, so that you buy the correct RAM. The Crucial System Scanner application from Crucial, a memory manufacturer will help you here as well.

How much can you install

Now that you know the RAM amount and configuration that you are using, you need to know how much you can add and how much you want to add. Slots available Look for the number of memory slots available, how many are already occupied, and how many more modules you can add, depending on the amount of RAM that you want to add. Your computer manual is a good place to find this information as well. Getting help Again, if you are unable to find this information in your manual, your local computer software store or online memory provider will be able to assist you so that you can add memory to your computer or laptop.