6:21 AM
Pramod Khadka
You must have available open memory slots to add memory. In extreme cases when only one slot exists, you may have to remove, for example, a 256-MB memory module to add a 512-MB one.
Once you have the correct RAM, you should follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing it. These instructions can be found on the manufacturer's Web site or in the manual that came with your computer. In some instances, installing your own RAM will void the warranty, so it's important to make sure you understand the rules before starting the procedure. If you don't have a manual, if the computer is homemade (generic), you'll need to follow the guidelines that come with the RAM itself.
Note that some computers make use of dual-channel RAM that works in pairs. In this case, the most benefit from new RAM installation can be obtained if the total amount of RAM is bought in two sticks, rather than a single stick. For example, if 2 Gigabytes (GB) total are desired, it would be better to get two 1 GB dual-channel sticks, rather than a single 2 GB stick.
Motherboard memory banks should be filled in order, as stated in the manual. There might be four banks total, for example, and if the installer will only be using two banks, banks one and two should be used rather than banks three and four. Check documentation that came with the motherboard or laptop to see how the banks are numbered.
For the most part, the procedure is as follows:
1. Turn off the computer, monitor, and all accessories, including printers, speakers, and external hard disks. If a laptop, remove the battery pack. The memory banks can be accessed by opening the computer case or by removing the protective plate on the underside of the laptop.
2. Memory chips are susceptible to damage by static discharge built up in the body. Before beginning RAM installation, it is important for the installer to ground himself. This can be done in a number of ways, but wearing a grounding wrist strap is recommended. These are widely available and quite inexpensive. With the computer plugged in, at least, you should touch a metal part of the computer case to ground yourself so you don't "shock" any of the computer's internal parts.
3. Open the computer case using the appropriate tools, remove the cover, and remove the existing memory if necessary. Slow, gentle pressure should be applied to the metal or plastic clips at either end of the bank or slot to push them outward, away from the stick. The RAM should pop out of the bank. In some cases, the RAM will need to be gently pulled out. Make sure the clips at both ends are free, and gently lift at either end to pull the stick out evenly. In laptops, RAM is installed at an angle, and should be removed at the same angle.
4. Whether removing old memory or handling new memory, avoid touching the gold pins on the bottom of the sticks. Also avoid touching the memory chips. When possible, hold a memory stick by its edges.
5. Locate the open memory slots, and find the lowest numbered slot if more than one exists. If no numbers are shown, use the slot closest to the already installed memory.
6. Once the memory banks are free, install the new RAM by filling bank number one first, then two, and so on. Be sure the RAM stick is pressed firmly into the slot, gold pins down, by applying even pressure all along the top edge of the stick using several fingertips evenly spaced. When the stick is inserted correctly, very little gold along the top edge of the slot or bank should be seen, and the RAM should be inserted evenly. The clips should spring into place to lock the stick in, though in some cases, the clips may need to be pressed up and into the locking notch at the edge of the stick. The memory module may go straight in, or it may have to be tilted first and then installed by popping it at a 45-degree angle.
7. Turn your computer back on, and verify the memory is displayed on your startup screen. If your startup screen is hidden, right-click My Computer, click Properties, click the General tab, and verify the memory is recognized.
8. Carefully replace the cover if the memory is recognized and the computer seems to be functioning correctly
