How To Install Computer Memory

Introduction

 As with other components as time goes on we need more and more from each component,  just a few years ago it was standard to have 128mb installed in your computer, but with each newer version of windows released required more and more memory. For example windows 95/98/ME would happily run on 128mb of memory, Windows 2000 would need 256mb, Windows xp 512 and now windows vista requires 1gig minimum and recommended of 2 gig.

 It is a known fact that adding more memory to your system will increase the performance.  The reason for this is because the operating system (Windows) uses memory to store lots of commands / data that it frequently needs to process.  If your system was

Before You Start

 Before you buy the memory you need to know what type of memory to buy and also how many slots your computer has free.  You can open your computer and take a look, and also read the manual that comes with your motherboard to see what type of memory you need, But the easier way to find out is to go to http://www.crucial.com/systemscanner/index.aspx and run there free scanner

 Memory is very fragile to static shocks, Try to earth yourself yourself before you touch the memory.  I usually do this by touching the metal on a screwdriver or a metal screw connected to your computer case.  You can also buy an anti-static-wrist strap http://www.maplin.co.uk/computer_component_uk.search which is what I prefer to use. This scanner is excerlent it will tell you everything, how much memory you have now, how many spare memory slots, what speed memory you have installed, how much maximum memory you can add to your system. 

 Make sure the power is switched off!! Unplug the power lead at the back of your computer.   

Installing The Memory

To install the memory locate where the memory slots are on your motherboard. Take a look at the manual that came with your motherboard if you are unsure where the memory slots are located.  At the side of the slots there will be two clips. (Shown below, the white clip) Open the clips up.

 

Line up the memory, The memory will only go in one way round, so make sure you get it right.  When you have lined up correctly push in to place. The clips will spring back and hold the memory, Shown below.

 


Check that the memory is firmly in the slot

Installing Laptop Memory

 Laptop memory looks slightly different,  The memory chips are shaped a little different from desktop memory chips, mainly because the chips are smaller and have to be more compact. 

 To install the memory do the following. Insert the memory into the slot at a slight angle, roughly 30 degrees.  Make sure the divits are lined up then push the memory down, when you feel the memory click that is when it is in place.  Make sure you dont force the memory in as you dont want to break it.

Example