Has your computer started to feel a little slow? Maybe it's not performing like it used to or can't keep up with the latest software? One of the simplest and cheapest ways to quickly improve your computer's performance is to upgrade your RAM (random access memory). However, how do you install the RAM you bought to upgrade it? In this wikiHow, you will learn how to install new RAM in a laptop, desktop, or iMac computer.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Install RAM on a Desktop PC
Step 1. Buy a RAM that is compatible with your computer
RAM comes in a variety of models, sizes, and speeds. The type you should buy will depend on the motherboard. Check your computer's motherboard or documentation, or check the manufacturer's website for RAM specifications that are compatible with your computer.
- The motherboard has a limit on the number of RAM modules that can be installed. Some motherboards support only two, while others support 4, 6, or even more. Most motherboards have a limit on how much memory they support regardless of how many slots there are.
- Also, it is important to mention that RAM cannot be upgraded on all PCs. Therefore, if you are not sure, check with your PC manufacturer.
- RAMs that don't match each other are not guaranteed to work well together. If you are buying multiple RAM modules, do so in sets of 2 or more that are identical.
Step 2. Turn off the computer
After you have the RAM, unplug the power cord from the PC and any peripheral devices that are connected to it (for example, monitors, keyboards, and mice).
Step 3. Open the computer case
Lay the computer tower on its side so that you can access the motherboard after removing the side panel. You may need a Phillips screwdriver to remove the panel, or you may be able to unscrew it by hand.
Step 4. Download static, if any
Make sure you don't have a build-up of static on your body. Static can damage parts of the computer and be imperceptible to a human being. Ground yourself before you start, or wear an antistatic bracelet.
- To ground yourself, you can touch a metal part of the computer case as long as it is unplugged from the wall. Since just being off does not remove the backup voltage, you must ensure that it is disconnected.
- Avoid standing on a rug while working inside the computer.
Step 5. Locate the RAM slots
Mostly motherboards have 2 or 4 RAM slots. These slots are typically located near the CPU, although their location may vary by manufacturer or model. Look for narrow slits about 4.5 inches (11 cm) long that have tabs at each end. At least one of them will already have a RAM module.
Step 6. Remove the old RAM (if you are going to upgrade it)
If you're replacing an old RAM, press down on the clamps on either side of the slot to remove it. You will be able to lift the RAM directly from the motherboard with almost no effort.
If you have to pull too hard, the clamps are probably not low enough. You may need to use one hand to press them down while removing the RAM with the other
Step 7. Take the new RAM out of its protective packaging
Carefully remove the RAM from the protected packaging. Hold it by the sides so you don't touch the contacts on the bottom or the circuitry on the board.
Step 8. Insert the RAM into the slot
Line up the notch on the RAM module with the break in the slot. Slide the module into the slot and apply even pressure on it until the clamps on the side click and secure the RAM. Since it will only fit one way, just flip it over if it doesn't line up properly. You may need to apply considerable pressure, but you should never force it in.
- Make sure to insert matching pairs into the corresponding slots. Some are labeled on the plate or by color, although you may need to refer to the motherboard layout diagram.
- Repeat the procedure for each RAM module you want to install.
- As long as the PC is open, use a bottle of compressed air to remove the dust. This can be a quick way to fix general overheating and performance problems. You can find cans of compressed air at any office supply store.
Step 9. Put the case back on the PC
When you finish inserting the RAM modules, you can replace the panel and screw it down. Do not turn on the computer as long as the panel is not on, as this will actually reduce the cooling power of the fans. Reconnect the peripheral devices and the monitor.
Step 10. Turn on the computer
This should start normally. If the computer displays the self-test during startup, you can verify that the RAM was installed correctly. Otherwise, you can verify that the RAM has been installed after Windows startup.
If the PC does not start, the RAM is probably not seated correctly. Turn off the PC and reopen it. Then remove the RAM and reposition it. Make sure it clicks firmly into place and try again
Step 11. Check the RAM in Windows
Press the Windows key + Pause / Break to open the system properties. The RAM will be listed in the "System" section or at the bottom of the window.
Operating systems calculate memory differently, and some computers allocate a certain amount of RAM to specific functions (for example, video), which decreases the amount available. For example, you might have bought 8GB of RAM, but you probably only see about 7.78GB of usable memory
Step 12. Run a RAM test if there are problems
If you are unsure as to whether the memory was installed correctly or if your computer does not run properly after installing the memory, you can test it with the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool. It may take a while to run, but it will check for errors and display how many have been installed.
- If you want to run this tool, press the key Windows on the keyboard and type memory in the search bar. Click on Windows memory diagnostics to run the tool and then click Restart now and check for problems to make the diagnosis.
Method 2 of 3: Install RAM on iMac
Step 1. Buy RAM for the iMac
The type of RAM required for the iMac depends on the model. If you want to know the right type of RAM for the model you have, as well as the maximum amount of RAM that is allowed, go here.
Step 2. Turn off the iMac
Before you begin, completely turn off your iMac and unplug the power cord from the wall. If there is any other peripheral device connected to the iMac, you must also disconnect it.
Internal components can get quite hot, so Apple recommends that you wait at least 10 minutes before installing RAM in your iMac
Step 3. Place the iMac on a soft clean towel
If you want to protect your monitor, spread a clean cloth on a flat surface, and then place the iMac with the monitor side down.
Step 4. Open the iMac memory access door
The steps differ depending on the model:
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27-inch and 21-inch models (2012 onwards):
press the small gray button just above the power port to open the memory compartment. Lift the door on the back of the monitor and set it aside. Next, push the two levers outward (to the sides) to release the memory cage, and pull the levers toward you to reveal the RAM slots.
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20-inch and 17-inch models (2006 only):
Unscrew the two screws on the memory access door, which is located on the bottom edge of the monitor, using a Phillips screwdriver. Set it aside after removing it. Next, push out (to the sides) the two ejector clips on each edge of the access door.
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Other models:
Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the screw in the center of the memory access door. This door is on the bottom edge of the monitor. Remove the door completely and set it aside. Pull the tabs out of the memory compartment so they are visible.
Step 5. Remove the existing RAM (if you are going to replace it)
This is how you should do it:
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27-inch and 21-inch models (2012 onwards):
pull the RAM straight up. It should pop out of the slot easily. Make sure to look in the direction of the notch so you know how to insert the new RAM.
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20-inch and 17-inch models (2006 only):
just pull the RAM outward to remove it, looking in the direction it is facing so you can properly insert the new RAM.
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Other models:
Gently pull the tab toward you to eject the currently installed memory. Note the orientation of the RAM, as you will need to install the new RAM in the same way.
Step 6. Insert the new RAM
Again, this differs a bit depending on the model:
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27-inch and 21-inch models (2012 onwards):
align the RAM over the slot so that the notch points down. It will line up with the notch inside the slot. Press down until the RAM clicks into place.
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20-inch and 17-inch models (2006 only):
slide the RAM into the slot with the notch side inward. Press it down with your thumbs until you feel a slight click. Push the two ejector clips back in to secure the RAM in place.
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Other models:
slide the RAM into the slot with the notch facing up (towards the top of the monitor). When you push it far enough, you will feel a slight click.
Step 7. Replace the memory access door
If the model has plastic tabs that you pulled out, put them back in place first. Then, reattach the door or cover in the same way as you removed it.
If you pressed a button to open the door, you don't need to press it to put it back
Step 8. Point the iMac in the correct direction and turn it on again
When it is turned back on, the iMac will perform the self-test and automatically detect the new RAM.
Method 3 of 3: Install RAM in a Laptop
Step 1. Find out what type of RAM is needed for your laptop
RAM comes in various models and speeds. The type of RAM you can get depends on your computer. Check your computer's documentation or the manufacturer's website for the RAM specifications that are compatible with your computer.
If you have a Mac laptop, head here to find out what type of RAM to buy
Step 2. Shut down and unplug the computer
To get started, save any open work and then shut down your computer as usual. If any external cables are connected, be sure to remove them as well. It is also recommended that you press and hold the power button for around 5 seconds to get rid of residual electricity.
- If you're using a Mac, click the Apple menu in the upper left corner and select To turn off.
- If you are using a Windows computer, click the Windows menu, select the button Off and later To turn off.
Step 3. Lay the laptop face down on a flat surface
The bottom should face up.
Step 4. Ground yourself
Before opening any panel on the laptop, you should make sure to ground yourself properly so you don't damage the components. To do this, you can touch a metal part of the computer case while it is unplugged. Just being off does not eliminate the backup voltage.
Step 5. Locate the RAM slots
This can be tricky as the process differs greatly from computer to computer. The best places you can check to find out exactly how to access your computer's RAM slots are in the owner's manual or the manufacturer's website. Generally, you will need to remove the battery cover (if any) or unscrew the bottom of the case and remove it from the computer.
Step 6. Check the number of slots there are
You can access your laptop's RAM by removing the panel at the bottom. Usually there will be a few different panels, so find the one with the memory icon or check the manual.
- Most laptops have only one or two RAM slots. Higher quality may have more.
- A very small Phillips screwdriver will be needed to remove the panel (if it needs to be removed).
Step 7. Determine if you need to install RAM in pairs
If necessary, this is because the pairs are the same size and timing, and are designed to run together as dual channel. If you are only installing a RAM module or modules that have different sizes or timing, you do not need to have two modules paired.
Step 8. Remove the old RAM (if you are going to upgrade it)
If you are replacing an old RAM, loosen the clamps on the side of the slot, if any, to remove it. To release the clamps, you can press down on them or push them out in opposite directions. The RAM will pop out slightly at an angle. Lift it up at a 45-degree angle, and then pull it out of the slot.
Step 9. Take the new RAM out of its protective packaging
Make sure to only hold the module by the sides so you don't touch the contacts or circuitry on the module itself.
Step 10. Align the notch on the RAM module with the cutout in the slot
The RAM won't lock into place unless the notches line up. Slide the RAM at a 45-degree angle until the clamps lock into place.
If there are multiple free slots, install the RAM in the lowest number first
Step 11. Close the laptop and turn it on again
Flip the computer over, plug it in, and turn it on. It should boot normally and detect RAM automatically.
- If you are on a PC and you are concerned that the RAM has not been installed correctly, press the key Windows on the keyboard and type memory in the search bar. Click on Windows memory diagnostics to run the tool and then click Restart now and check for problems to make the diagnosis.
Advice
- If a beep sounds when you turn on your computer, you may have installed the wrong type of memory or installed the memory modules incorrectly. The computer manufacturer can explain the meaning of the beep code.
- Avoid being alarmed if your computer shows slightly less RAM than what you purchased. This is a difference in memory size or distribution. If the size of the RAM differs a lot from what you bought and installed, it is possible that a chip is not connected correctly or is defective.
- A good website to use is the Crucial memory website, as it has a memory advisory tool that tells you the right amount and type of RAM for your computer. There you can also buy memories.
Warnings
- Avoid inserting the RAM modules backwards. Once the computer is turned on with the modules backwards, the RAM slot and the offending RAM module will be damaged. In rare cases, this can damage the motherboard.
- If you are not comfortable with opening a computer, take it to a professional. Since you bought the RAM modules yourself, it shouldn't cost much to ask someone to install them.
- Make sure to get rid of any possible build-up of static before touching the RAM. RAM is very sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). To do this, touch something metal before touching the computer.
- Avoid touching the metal parts of the RAM modules, as this could damage them.