One of the easiest and most reliable ways to significantly increase the speed of your computer is to add memory, especially in the form of RAM (random access memory). If you’re wondering how to get more RAMWhile it helps to understand the parts and process, the answer is quite simple.
A RAM upgrade isn’t a fix-all solution, but it can do a lot to keep your computer running smoothly, improve performance, and make your computing experience much more enjoyable. It’s also one of the simpler changes you can make to your computer yourself. While it won’t void the warranty in most cases, it’s always a good idea to check your manufacturer’s instructions first.
What is RAM?
The abbreviation stands for “random access memory,” which is a form of physical memory stored on your computer. This means that it exists as a physical part of your computer’s internal components.
If you choose to buy more RAM for your computer, it will come as a small array of chips on a rectangle of silicon, looking a lot like the kind of stuff currently sitting inside your computer. Some RAM upgrades actually involve inserting a new RAM module into the RAM slots on your desktop or laptop.
How Does RAM Work?
Imagine the RAM arranged like a large grid, similar to the board in a Battleship game. Each box in the grid represents a memory cell, and each cell can store information. You can access any cell in RAM if you know which row and column it is in.
Therefore, having more RAM means having a faster computer. The more squares in the grid, the more data your computer can process and store. This allows programs to run faster (i.e. more efficiently) on your machine.
Information in RAM memory cells can be overwritten or deleted. This is one of the ways it differs from read-only memory (ROM). Your computer’s ROM is wired into your machine’s circuitry. It contains information that allows your computer to perform basic functions such as starting the operating system or activating hardware.
What Does RAM Do for My Computer?
RAM usage is critical to your computer’s ability to run applications. Your computer stores temporary information in memory cells and references the data when running applications.
If the information is not in your computer’s RAM, it must reference the computer’s hard disk. This is slower than pulling information from RAM. So if your computer doesn’t have enough RAM to run multiple applications or even a large program, it may feel like it’s dragging on.
Every computer has a maximum RAM capacity. Once you reach this limit, you’ve gone as far as you can go with your hardware. But unless you customize your machine, your computer likely has plenty of capacity for additional RAM.
Before Upgrading Your RAM
The first step of a RAM upgrade involves gathering some information. First you need to know how much RAM your computer has. Then it’s time to take a look at how your RAM is being used through an app like Task Manager in Windows.
From there you can free up RAM using a few different methods. Finally, if you think your computer is still not running fast enough, you can purchase and install more RAM in your computer.
Checking Your RAM: Windows PCs
Open Task Manager on your Windows PC to see your current RAM usage. Then select the performance tab and click on memory. This will allow you to see how much RAM your machine is currently using, whether both RAM slots are occupied, and how many gigabytes of RAM you have available.
Checking Your RAM: Macs
But what if you’re using a Mac? Apple has made it easier to find out how much RAM your computer has. Click on the Apple icon in the upper left corner of the screen. Select the option that says About This Computer. You will see a line that says memory. This is the amount of RAM your Mac currently has.
Knowing Your RAM Upgrade Capacity
Once you know how much memory your computer has, you need to figure out how much it can handle. There are hundreds of different computers on the market, and not all of them have the same features and limitations. It would be impossible to list them all here.
Fortunately, there are some resources online that track this information. We recommend using the following:
These sources will not only tell you how much more RAM your machine can use, but also what kind of RAM you can install. There are almost as many different types of RAM chips as there are computer models; You need to match the correct RAM to your machine.
One Stick or Two?
If your computer uses dual-channel memory, you may need to install two modules (or sticks, as they are sometimes called) instead of a single RAM. So, if you want to upgrade to 8 or 16 gigabytes of RAM, you may need to install two separate RAM modules.
Make sure both modules have the same specifications, otherwise the dual channel feature will not work.
Free RAM Improvement
Before you go out and buy not-so-cheap RAM modules, it’s good to know that you can squeeze more performance out of your existing RAM with a few relatively easy steps. Then, if you think your computer is still slow, you can drop that hard-earned money.
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Follow updates. Having an outdated operating system can make your computer’s RAM usage less optimal than it should be. By keeping the latest operating system updated, you can ensure you’re getting the best performance from your available RAM.
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Less multitasking. Running programs requires memory, and if you’re running a lot of programs at the same time, this can put a strain on your RAM. Try closing programs you don’t need right now to free up RAM.
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Restart the computer. This is a classic and reliable method of freeing up RAM on your machine. Of course, this is annoying; Who wants to spend a few extra minutes waiting for their computer to shut down and then turn back on? – but it can really help.
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Adjust virtual memory. Virtual memory is a way to get around RAM limitations. On both Macs and PCs, going to your System Settings allows you to maximize your virtual memory.
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Clean House. This is another one of the simple but somewhat laborious processes that will help improve the performance of your computer. By deleting files and programs you don’t use, you’ll make the most of the RAM you currently have.
Upgrading the RAM on your computer
Now that you know how much RAM you have, how much your computer can handle, and what type of RAM chip you need to purchase for your machine, you’ll need to purchase new RAM modules and acquire a few tools.
In most cases you will only need a small screwdriver. When in doubt, consult your PC’s user manual.
power off
Make sure your computer is turned off and unplugged before making any changes. If you’re upgrading your laptop, it’s a good idea to remove the battery before you start.
Open your computer’s case with a screwdriver and find the section on your computer’s motherboard where the RAM is located. If you need help, consult your user manual. Some laptops even have a special panel that you can remove to replace RAM modules.
Before touching any components inside your computer, you need to discharge any accumulated static electricity. The elements inside your computer are very sensitive to electricity; If you hit them with a quick stroke with your fingertips, you may damage them.
But discharging static electricity is easy: Just touch something metal before continuing.
Remove Old Memory Modules
If you are replacing existing memory modules, you will need to remove the ones currently in your computer. Many computers use clips to hold RAM in place. If this is the case, gently lift the clips and remove each module from the RAM slot and then set it aside.
Install new RAM
Then remove your new RAM from its envelope. Be careful not to touch any metal connectors or circuits on the module. Align the module with the slot on your computer. Most computers have a notch to guide you so you don’t insert the module incorrectly.
Gently press the module into the RAM slot. After inserting the module, you can close the clips, replace the computer cover and you are ready to go.
Power Up Again
If you’re working with a laptop, don’t forget to replace the battery. Plug in the PC, turn it on and check your system’s RAM. If the updated information is correct, you are ready!
If not, you may need to reboot again. If you still have problems, you should turn off the machine, unplug it, turn it on and check if the module is properly seated.
That is all.
With more RAM, your computer will be able to run more applications simultaneously without resorting to your hard drive. Although you may not have increased your computer’s processing speed, you have reduced the time it needs to check certain data. It’s an easy and relatively inexpensive way to get more life out of your computer.
More information
resources
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Apple. “iMac: Memory features and upgrades.” March 17, 2009. (May 6, 2009) http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3011
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Apple. “Macbook: How to install memory?” March 17, 2009. (May 6, 2009) http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1651
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Computer Memory Upgrade. “Installing Notebook Memory.” 2003. (May 4, 2009) http://www.computermemoryupgrade.net/installing-laptop-memory.html
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Crucial.com. (May 5, 2009) http://www.crucial.com/
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Kingston Technology Corporation. (May 5, 2009) http://www.kingston.com/
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Microsoft. “Find out how much RAM your computer has.” (May 5, 2009) http://windowshelp.microsoft.com/windows/en-US/help/479a7531-57ad-43c1-91b1-3f46a0e1761e1033.mspx.
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Pash, Adam. “Hack Attack: How to install RAM?” Lifeguard. November 22, 2005. (May 5, 2009) http://lifehacker.com/software/feature/hack-attack-how-to-install-ram-138665.php
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Rosenthal, Morris. “How to upgrade a laptop – Upgrading Laptops or Notebooks.” 2008. (May 5, 2009) http://www.daileyent.com/hmdpc/upgrade.htm
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Steers, Kirk. “How to Upgrade Your Computer’s RAM.” Computer World. February 27, 2007. (May 4, 2009) http://www.pcworld.com/article/129177/how_to_upgrade_your_pcs_ram.html.
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Walker, Andy. “How to Add RAM?” Cyberwalker.com. January 1, 2008. (May 5, 2009) http://www.cyberwalker.com/article/41.
Original article: How to Get More RAM (Random Access Memory)
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