How to Add RAM to Your Computer

Level of difficulty: Intermediate

A RAM (Random Access Memory) is the memory of your computer. You can improve the performance of your computer by adding RAM. This will accelerate the computer and it allows you to run multiple applications at the same time without the computer lagging. Installing a RAM is fairly easy.

Materials Needed:
- RAM
- screwdriver
Step 1
Buy a RAM chip that is compatible with your existing RAM. Also, choose a RAM size that will suit your needs.
Step 2
To install the RAM, turn off your computer. Unplug it from the power source to avoid electrocution.
Step 3
Remove the outer casing of your computer’s tower. You may need to disconnect the monitor from the tower and remove some cables that are blocking you from opening the tower. Use the screwdriver to remove the screws. Make sure that you keep the screws.
Step 4
Locate the slot for the RAM. The RAM slots are located on the motherboard. There are clips on either side of the slot that secures the RAM in place. Gently press down on the clips and the RAM chip should pop out. Handle the RAM chip by the edges so as not to damage it.
Step 5
Install the new RAM chip on the slot by pushing it gently. Do not force the RAM chip to enter the slot. You should hear a click if the RAM chip is already in place. Make sure that the RAM is in place.
Step 6
Replace the cover of the tower and re-attach all the cables that you removed. Reconnect the monitor to the tower and plug the computer. Turn on the computer.
Step 7
You can check to see if the RAM that you installed is detected by your computer. To do this, click on the 'Start' button on the lower left part of your desktop. Choose 'Control Panel' on the menu.
Step 8
The 'Control Panel' window will appear. Choose the 'System' icon from the list of icons. The 'System Properties' window will appear. Choose the 'General' tab and you will see information regarding the computer including the RAM. Check if the RAM matches the size of the RAM that you installed on the computer. If the computer does not detect the new RAM, go over the steps one more time and make sure that the RAM is securely in place.
Step 9
Repeat these steps until you have completed your bibliography for Internet sources. If some of the information is not available, you can skip that information and continue writing the bibliography.