What is random access memory (RAM) or system memory?
The operating system (Windows) makes use of the system memory, also known as RAM (Random Access Memory), to “host” currently executing programs and data. When a program is launched, its components are brought into the computer’s main memory (RAM). The less RAM your computer has, the more apps you can have open at once. Adding more RAM to your laptop may or may not make it quicker. Users who frequently multitask or employ resource-intensive applications like computer-aided design (CAD) tools, video, and audio editing suites, etc., may benefit from upgrading their RAM. Memory upgrades probably won’t make a noticeable difference in performance if your typical computer use consists of running Skype, reading email, browsing the internet, and playing simple games.
Increasing the RAM of your Computer
Adding more RAM to your laptop is a simple process that involves a few simple tools and some reading up on the subject. Why not fix your laptop yourself and save $75 instead of taking it to the local computer shop? Reading this “how to” article will give you the knowledge to complete the task in minutes. It will take more time to research your system’s memory needs than to install the RAM.
However, the memory modules on particular budget laptops cannot be accessed from the machine’s underside, complicating matters. In most modern laptops, RAM may be accessed by unscrewing the device from the bottom. Such an improvement is outside the scope of this particular piece.
The Necessary Equipment
A tiny Phillips head screwdriver, a tiny flat-head screwdriver (optional), and access to the web are all you’ll need to get started. If you don’t already have any, a nice pair of screwdrivers may be purchased for less than ten dollars at your neighborhood Wal-Mart. You’ll also need a half-hour of your time to learn the process and access the internet to learn about the specific type of memory you’ll need. That’s it; it’s a simple fix that will save your computer from needing costly repairs and prevent you from being without it for an extended period.
Discovering the laptop’s model number
To begin, locate your laptop’s model number, typically on the underside of the chassis. The underside of a laptop computer may feature multiple printed regions, so be on the lookout. Not S/N, P/N, or service tag #, but the phrase “Model” is what you seek. The model number is typically situated under the battery. It is not uncommon for laptops to have a simple model number printed on the screen bezel or near the keyboard. Some Toshiba models, like the L305D-S5935, have the word “Satellite” but nothing else on the keyboard, which is not what you want. HP’s model numbers include things like the DV7-9600 and the G6-1064US. The model number, typically a four-digit code such as 1550, 1460, etc., should be shown on the laptop somewhere.
Recognizing the right recollection
The next step is to locate the appropriate recollection. You would need to visit Toshiba’s help page if, for example, you were using a Toshiba laptop. Search “Toshiba support USA” on Google and visit their genuine support page. However, you should avoid sites with “Toshiba” to attract clicks.
Hovering over the “services and support” tab on Toshiba’s site (other manufacturers’ sites will differ slightly) reveals a drop-down menu with options for consumer, business, and industrial products. After selecting “consumer products,” scrolling down the page, and clicking on the “tech support” link, you will be led to a screen where you can either input the model number of your laptop or choose it from a series of drop-down selections. Although the websites for various manufacturers will vary, locating the appropriate tech help page can usually be accomplished by searching for the manufacturer’s name plus “tech support USA” on Google.
Now that you’ve found the technical support page, you may navigate through its various sections, which include “Drivers,” “Support Bulletins,” “Downloads,” and so on. Select “Detailed Specs” or a similar option to view the technical details of your laptop. If you look under “Memory,” you’ll find out how much memory your computer came with and how much more you can add. The memory (DDR2 800MHz, DDR3 1077MHz, etc.) you install on your laptop is crucial. You must use the same RAM that’s listed on the box.
How to Track Down Your Preinstalled RAM
Your laptop has a certain quantity of system memory that cannot be changed. If you purchased a used laptop, the quantity of RAM installed in the machine may differ from what is listed on the manufacturer’s specification sheet. Right-click “Computer” in the start menu or on the desktop, and then select “Properties” from the resulting drop-down menu to access the system’s memory settings.
To access the System window, click here. Several details about your laptop can be seen in the System pane. The OS, maker, CPU type, and, most notably, the “installed memory” are all factors. On a Windows 7 machine, this is typically between 2 and 8 GB (gigabytes). The challenge here is figuring out where the RAM is stored. There are always two memory module slots on a laptop. In lower-end laptops, both memory slots will be filled with a 1GB module for 2GB.
The next step is to take the battery out and turn off the AC power. You’ll need to flip the laptop over to access the memory slot cover. Since memory gets hot while being used, vents are typically cut into the lid. The lid can be easily removed by removing the one or two screws holding it in place. In some circumstances, you may need to pry up on the cover’s screw-side edge with a tiny flat-bladed screwdriver or a steak knife, but usually, you can lift it off.
Check to determine if both of the available memory slots are occupied. The openings are staggered and stacked atop one another. If you see 2GB of memory listed in the System pane, and there is only one “stick” in that slot, then you have a memory stick that is exactly 2GB in size.
How much RAM do I require?
Remember that your laptop has a memory capacity, and choose from 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB memory sticks. Even if you want to install more than 1GB of RAM into your laptop, you can utilize either of the 1GB memory sticks already in the slots. It doesn’t matter how you set up the memory. Let’s pretend you’ve filled both RAM slots with 2GB of memory. To increase system memory from 2GB to 3GB, take out a 1GB memory stick and swap it for a 2GB one. For a total of 5GB of system memory or any quantity or combination up to the maximum allowed by your system, replace one of the memory sticks with a 4GB memory stick. A 4GB memory stick will cost you less per gigabyte than a 2GB memory stick, and in my opinion, that’s more than enough for the ordinary user.
Please recommend a memory brand for me.
Several companies produce RAM for laptops. How about the best? Most memory has a lifetime warranty, and many manufacturers produce it, including Kingston, Crucial, Micron, and others. The presence of an HP label does not guarantee that HP produced the memory or that you must use only HP memory in its replacement. New memory modules with a manufacturer warranty are your best bet, while reconditioned or used options are cheaper. It’s safe to say that any memory brand will do the job. It’s inexpensive and easy to find online. Buying from a repair shop or a department store is not recommended because their prices are typically twice as high as those found online, and they may not have the exact type of memory that you need for your laptop. RAM is excellent and trustworthy regardless of who makes it because no moving or fragile parts can be broken off.
Memory installation
All that’s left to do after purchasing the exact type and quantity of RAM your laptop’s maker recommends is to install it. Just stick to these easy steps! Memory sticks have copper pins that should not be touched or used as handles. The memory module is highly vulnerable to static electricity. It’s never happened to me before, but it’s not impossible.
Turn off your computer and disconnect the power cord.
Flip over the computer.
Taking out the battery.
Take off the cover of the memory slot.
Simply pry out the memory by pushing on the silver rails that run the length of the memory stick. Almost all laptops employ a rail system in which the “rails” have a tiny bend or nodule that clicks into the side of the memory stick. But in general, figuring out the various setups is a breeze. To retrieve the memory stick, use your fingers to push the rail out to the side on both sides simultaneously. Don’t use metal instruments to pry it out; if your fingers are too large, use a toothpick or other plastic (like a credit card) to gently raise the memory stick while nudging the rail to the side. If it doesn’t work, try applying pressure or jiggling it a little to see if you can get it to budge.
Put the memory stick in the slot with the copper pin facing down to set up the new RAM. Make that the crossbar on the memory slot and the slot on the memory module are aligned. Please don’t force the module into the onboard slot; ensure it fits snugly, and press down until you hear a click. You may need to extend the rails slightly to get the memory to seat correctly.
Securely reinstall the memory card cover.
You can stop working now. Start up your laptop, navigate to the Computer icon on the desktop or through the start menu, right-click, and pick Properties from the drop-down menu to open the System window. In this window, locate the “Installed Memory” line and verify that it displays the amount of newly installed RAM.
After reading this, you will be able to install additional RAM in your laptop in about five minutes. Then, for a small fee, you may do the same for your loved ones, who will be eternally grateful.
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