How to perform a RAM memory upgrade

If your computer has slowed down, adding more memory can help speed it up. Before you start, you first have to determine if you can add more memory, and what type of memory you need to purchase for your computer. Follow the steps in this article to determine whether you can add memory to your computer, what type of memory you need, and how to install it.

Determine how much memory can be installed

Determine how much memory is currently installed on your computer. You can find this information in several different ways. The easiest way is to click the Start button and then right-click on Computer. Click on Properties from the side menu. Information about your computer will display on the screen, including how much memory is installed on your computer. For example, it will be listed as Memory (RAM) 3047 MB.

Determine if you can add memory

Determine if you can add more memory to your computer. Each stick of memory requires one slot in your computer. If all of the memory slots are full, you cannot add more memory. You can replace the memory slots already there, however, for higher capacity ones.

Determine the type of memory

Determine what kind of memory you need to purchase for your computer. There are many different types of memory, such as DDR and DDR2. There are free tools online that will scan your computer, and determine what type of memory you need. System scanner One such tool is System Scanner. You can download this tool and install it on your computer. Run the tool and it will show you the maximum amount of memory your computer can have, the type of memory, how many memory slots you have on your computer, and the manufacturer of the memory currently installed on your computer. Below the scan results, you will see recommendations for compatible memory for your computer, including the memory type and part numbers. Take this information with you when you purchase more memory.

Install the memory

- Power off your computer and disconnect the power cable. - Open the computer case. If you do not know how to do this, refer to your computer’s user’s guide. - Insert the new memory sticks into the correct memory slots. Refer to your computer’s user’s manual on where the memory slots are located on your computer, and how to install them. When you have finished installing the memory, close the case, plug in the power cable and power the computer on. - Check that your computer recognises the new memory by following step 1 again. Your computer should automatically recognise the new memory, and it should be listed in this information.