At EasyTechJunkie, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
How do I Upgrade Computer RAM?
When a computer is running slowly, it is likely in need of more memory, or RAM. Computers are sold with about a quarter of the computer RAM they can support. Upgrading computer RAM can be done by a novice, as it doesn't require any technical knowledge. All that is needed is a RAM module, specific to your computer, an antistatic wrist strap and a screwdriver.
The first step in upgrading your computer RAM is to learn what type of module is needed, then purchase it. You can learn what type of computer RAM you need by looking in your computer manual. If you no longer have the manual handy, you can check online at the Crucial or Kingston websites.
Turn off the computer and unplug the main power supply. Use a non-magnetic screwdriver to loosen the screws and open the computer case. Although it's not guaranteed to happen, a magnetic screwdriver may destroy the sensitive components of the computer. It isn't worth the risk. If a screw is attracted to the tip of the screwdriver, it is magnetic.
Before you install the computer RAM, you will need to ground yourself with an antistatic wrist strap. This will prevent any static electricity you produce, from discharging and damaging the computer circuits. Wrap the antistatic wrist strap around your wrist and attach the other end to the computer case. Antistatic wrist straps are sold at any store that sells computer components.
Check your computer manual or the Crucial or Kingston websites to determine the order in which to fill the RAM sockets in, as the order varies by computer brand. If inserted in the wrong order, the computer may not recognize the added RAM. If it is necessary to remove a RAM module, push down on the clips located on each side of the socket.
Hold the new RAM module by the thin edges. Hold down the clips on the sides of the module sockets and insert the computer RAM by lining up the indentation on the module with the extrusion on the socket. Push the RAM module in until it clicks.
Replace the cover on the computer case. Plug the computer in to the electrical outlet and power it up. If the new computer RAM is installed correctly, it will register on the monitor. If it wasn't recognized, you will need to enter the CMOS setup program and tell the computer what to look for. This is done by following the prompts that appear on the screen.
AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![A RAM card.]()
By: Sergey DashkevichA RAM card. -
![Adding computer RAM may allow for a larger buffer to improve media streaming.]()
By: vinsenAdding computer RAM may allow for a larger buffer to improve media streaming. -
![If the new RAM is installed properly, it should register on the computer monitor.]()
By: Oleksiy MarkIf the new RAM is installed properly, it should register on the computer monitor. -
![Adding RAM -- or Random Access Memory -- to your computer can increase its performance.]()
By: charnsitrAdding RAM -- or Random Access Memory -- to your computer can increase its performance.
Discussion Comments
I just purchased an ASUS G73-JH. Although it is a JH model, the particular model I purchased for a great price, came with 6GB Ram. I could have gotten it with 8GB but I didn't think I needed it, and I haven't even came across a situation where I felt like I needed more, but, I want my G73-JH to be what G4tV said was the fastest gaming laptop they've ever tested.
I looked up "G73" and "G4tV" anyway to find out where's the best place to take it from the current 6GB to the 8GB.
I love it. It actually has a turbo boost button. Most computers with turbo boost only boost when the computer decides. This computer does that, but it also has a manual "Twin Turbo."
G73-JH: Intel I7 Processor,ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5870 Graphics/8GB Ram/1TB Harddrive, Quad Core 8 virtual cores. As of August 2010, items such as the graphics card are the fastest and best made. I highly recommend the G73 since it smokes the Alienware. I recommend the new ones since dell acquired them, and the old ones as well but that was a while ago. For a comparable alienware the price is 4,400. The G73 is faster and I like it better and got it for less than half the price. G4TV also tested Alienware's M17x, before the G73-JH and if you check out the video review they declare it to be the fastest gaming laptop they have ever tested. But where do I get ram for this stealth fighter inspired design PC.
SDRAM is not static sensitive since it is not made of CMOS devices. Actually it hardly ever fails. The wrist strap can be tossed by just touching the case first before installing RAM.
Post your comments