Is it possible to replace RAM? Replacing and installing RAM


There are many active users among us who can work in several programs at once, while simultaneously opening a lot of applications. In such cases, they may have a question about replacing random access memory. Sometimes a situation may even arise when you realize that the time has come to modernize your obsolete computer, or various errors. The moment comes when you need to start fighting them. But how to deal with them correctly? This question has begun to be asked more and more often, let’s try to figure it out together. The easiest way is to change the RAM. This process itself, if approached correctly, will not take you much time. In this article you can learn how to correctly identify and install memory in your laptop or PC.

How to select RAM for a computer

What characteristics should the RAM have? How to choose it? Let's look at everything in order. First you need to find out what type your motherboard supports. No matter how desperately you try, you will not be able to install a module designed for one memory into a slot created for another. Today, among the most common, there are two types of memory:

Which one should you choose? Much depends on the purpose of your PC. If you do your work in really heavy programs, and also play powerful games, then you will need a type DDR memory 3, since its frequency varies from 800 MHz to 1600. If you use your computer for ordinary purposes, you should choose DDR 2, whose frequency ranges from 400 to 800 MHz.

How much RAM do you need? I will say this: to achieve a normal PC operating environment and high performance, you need at least 2 Gb. Therefore, to ensure normal flight conditions for your computer, stick to volumes of 4 Gb and above, so as not to be disappointed later.

Replacing RAM on a computer

Well, let's move on directly to the process of replacing the RAM. First you need to completely disconnect the computer from external power. Then you need to pick up the system unit and carefully disassemble it (do not forget that almost all the fastening is held on by bolts, which we will need in order to put everything back together), basically you only need to remove the left cover, after which you will gain access to RAM. In general, this lesson is very short, after which we will be able to see the following picture:

Now we need to take out our old memory, to do this you need to lightly press the latches that are located on the sides.

The main thing is not to touch the microcircuits, even if they are quite cute and you are eager to touch them. All microcircuits are fragile, so you may not even notice how the module will be damaged by even a small static voltage.

By pressing the latches, you will see how the board rises slightly from the grooves, after which it can be pulled out. You should pull it out, holding it by the edges. After this, remove from the packaging new board, and then align the slots on the motherboard and on the memory card.

If they do not fit together, we can conclude that you purchased the wrong memory card and will have to return it to the store or exchange it for the correct one. After a characteristic click, the latches along the edge of the board should snap into place (you should not be too zealous in this matter, so as not to break the motherboard).

Then you need to double-check several times whether all the boards are properly secured in the sockets. If everything is installed correctly, you need to check the amount of active memory in its properties again after turning on the computer (it should increase).

How to choose RAM for a laptop

In laptops, RAM is replaceable, so the developers created a special compartment for it, located on the laptop body for operational replacement. It’s worth immediately warning those who are planning to change the RAM in a laptop themselves and, once in the store, confidently say: Give me the coolest memory for a laptop. First, you should understand that there are at least four types of RAM for laptops:

It is also important to keep in mind that from year to year minimum requirements to hardware increases, if just a year ago the amount of your RAM might have seemed huge, now it will not be able to satisfy all your user requests.

You should definitely find out what type of RAM is right for your laptop. If the sticker is technical characteristics The laptop is still intact, then you can find the type of supported RAM on it. If you couldn’t find the sticker, you can determine this information using special programs. The data obtained should be sufficient to acquire the required memory.

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Sooner or later the moment will come when we decide to upgrade our computer. And, as a rule, upgrading begins with increasing the levels of RAM, because it can seriously increase the speed of the computer. This is exactly what we want to talk about in this article - replacing the RAM of a computer or laptop with your own hands. You can replace RAM in two ways: do it yourself or seek help from service center. Let's say right away: replacing RAM is a very simple operation; there is no point in paying for the services of a specialist if your hands are growing out of the right place. To replace the RAM module, you do not need any special tools; one screwdriver is enough to disassemble the system unit.

Replace RAM

So, let's start with replacing the computer. First, you must know exactly what kind of memory you have installed in your car, or more precisely, the type of connector. To do this, just read the warranty; usually the full name of the bar, including its type, is indicated there. Most likely it will be DDR3. After that, go to the store and buy RAM of the size you need. Keep in mind, not all types of RAM can be upgraded, anything older than DDR3 is usually not upgradeable.

Having a new memory stick in hand, we proceed as follows. First we need to disassemble the system unit to get to the place we need. To do this, arm yourself with a screwdriver, remove the side cover of the unit and place it on the table. Since you have opened the system unit, we recommend cleaning it. Then we find the memory stick that is installed on the motherboard. It’s easy to find it, because you bought exactly the same one and are holding it in your hands. Are there empty connectors of the same type nearby? There should be, because the computer has space for installing at least two RAM sticks. Found it?

We proceed with caution. We move the latches apart (if there are any) and insert the RAM into the socket, follow the slots, they should coincide with the key, it is located on the motherboard connector itself. The plank is made so that it cannot be inserted incorrectly, however, anything can happen...

The RAM should fit easily into the slot. If the computer is five years old, then the contacts may partially stick together due to age, in which case you will have to lightly press the bar and insert it “rocking”. If even in this case the model cannot be inserted, and the motherboard is already beginning to sag from your efforts, it is better to contact a service center so that a specialist can open the jammed connector with a screwdriver. Want to try it yourself? The craftsmen do this: insert a screwdriver with a thin end into the connector, move it slightly, trying to separate the stuck together contacts. We repeat this action several times along the entire connector. No extra effort, otherwise you will break the slot. As a rule, it is enough to go around with a screwdriver once so that the RAM easily snaps into place.

Have you inserted a memory stick? Now we secure it with slot clamps (the ones we installed from the very beginning). That's it, you can carefully turn on the computer and make sure that it sees installed component. After that, unplug it from the outlet, replace the side cover, screw in all the bolts (if there were any) and work with the new RAM.

How to replace or add RAM in a laptop? The best thing to do here is to use the Internet and find out exactly where it is located. IN modern laptops there is a cover under which easy access to the RAM is hidden, but older machines “hide” it under the keyboard, which is much more difficult. Find a photo or video instruction and follow the instructions from it. In a nutshell: the old RAM is held by clamps with tendrils; they just need to be pulled apart. Don't be alarmed if the bar literally jumps out of its slot - this happens to almost everyone. We install the new bar carefully, making sure that all contacts fit snugly. Now lightly press the bar until the latches click - that’s it, it’s installed. We turn on the machine and check its functionality.

Note that, despite its simplicity, replacing RAM is a rather painstaking task; it is advisable to at least once see how someone else does it before trying to do the same yourself.

Unlike desktop computers, laptops are virtually impossible to upgrade. While in a PC you can go through and replace almost everything, in laptops you can only change it painlessly HDD and random access memory (other names: RAM, RAM, RAM). To do this you need to disable Charger, remove the battery (if possible) and unscrew the cover on the bottom. You will have access to a hard drive and RAM, which can be replaced. In older laptops from the early 2000s, this process may be more complex due to the design, but since there are very few such devices in use today, we will not focus on them.

Two 4GB DDR3 RAM modules

As a rule, RAM rarely fails, so it is changed in order to increase the capacity and, accordingly, the speed of the laptop. There are several nuances to consider here.

  • 32-bit operating systems Windows systems do not support more than 4 GB of RAM. If you need more than 4 GB of RAM, you will need to install 64-bit Windows (you may already have it installed - open My computer and clicking right click mouse over an empty area, select Properties).
  • It is necessary to familiarize yourself with the technical characteristics of the laptop or motherboard. This will allow you to find out the maximum supported amount of RAM, the number of slots for memory modules, and the type of RAM modules – DDR1, DDR2, DDR3.
  • To find out the number of memory modules already in use, you can use CPU-Z program(download, run and look at the drop-down list in the SPD tab), or you need to unscrew the bottom cover and see live the number of slots and the amount of RAM used.
  • As a rule, laptops have two slots for RAM, so if you have, for example, two 2 GB RAM modules installed, and you want 8 GB, then you will have to throw out the current memory modules, and in their place insert two 4 GB each or one 8 GB. You should also keep in mind such a factor as the RAM soldered into the motherboard. This is typical for ultrabooks and MacBooks. Moreover, there are options here too - the entire stick will be sealed without the possibility of increasing the volume, or one free slot will be available for your RAM stick.

How to replace RAM in a laptop

Warning! If you recently purchased a laptop from a store and it is still under warranty, then opening the cover on the bottom and replacing the RAM may void the warranty. To maintain the warranty, you will have to contact authorized service centers.


Based on what was written above, we conclude that to replace RAM in a laptop, you need to find out the characteristics of the motherboard, unscrew the bottom cover and see what is already installed in the laptop and what can be improved. Then we buy RAM modules of the appropriate type, turn off the power, remove the battery and change the RAM modules themselves.

To get installed strips from the slots, you need to unclip the latches on the sides and calmly remove them, holding the strips on the sides, without touching the gold-plated contacts inserted into the slot. Inserting new strips into the slot should also be easy; when the latches snap into place, stop pressing and just check that the strips are level.

After replacing the modules, we put everything back together and turn on the laptop. To make sure that everything is fine, run the CPU-Z utility again, or open My computer, right-click on the free area and select Properties. In the window that opens, in the section System opposite the point Installed memory(RAM) look at the available memory.


IN self-replacement There is nothing complicated about the laptop components, but if you are still not confident in your abilities, you can watch the following video from the company, which shows how basic everything is.

Every computer owner has thought about improving it at least once. Some simply change the processor, others assemble and resolder the insides of the video card. But it's easier and cheaper to overclock a computer. This can be done by adding RAM to it. This method does not require special training or the expensive purchase of a new processor. But before you do practical solution question: “How to add RAM to a computer?”, you need to understand what it is and why it is needed.

What is RAM

Random access memory (RAM, RAM - random access memory, or RAM - Random Access Memory) is the place where all temporary data about the operation of programs is stored. Externally, the OP looks like several different microcircuits connected to the motherboard. It serves as temporary storage for everyone running programs and has higher speed writing and reading data.

It should be noted that RAM is fundamentally different from memory hard drive. RAM stores information only for as long as the device is connected to power, i.e., as soon as the computer is turned off, all data on the RAM will be erased. Memory hard disk stores information until you delete it.

Modern RAM is very large and allows the computer to work on many tasks simultaneously. But their diversity is confusing inexperienced user. Let's try to figure out how to add RAM to a computer.

When should you change RAM?

Sometimes the user may not notice the signals that the equipment uses to notify that more effort is needed to perform routine tasks. It is not difficult to understand the signals; the main ones are visible. You need to change RAM if:

  • the computer begins to slow down when executing programs;
  • laptop or desktop computer takes a long time to load and load programs;
  • Sites with “heavy” graphics and animation do not load;
  • you need to install powerful games or complex programs, and also run several processes simultaneously.

So, is it possible to add RAM to a computer and in what ways can this be done?

Ways to increase RAM

It is quite possible to improve the performance of equipment; today there are three main ways to increase RAM on a computer:

  • plank replacement method;
  • Ready Boost installation;
  • swap OP.

All methods are simple, even a beginner can handle them. However, each technique has its own nuances.

Hardware method: RAM modules

The first method involves installing new RAM sticks to replace the old ones. But not everything is so smooth here: the new strips must be compatible with motherboard, as well as the processor. To use this method, you need to know exactly how to properly add RAM to your computer.

In general, the procedure is as follows:

  • remove the cover of the system unit;
  • find the RAM mounts on the motherboard;
  • remove the old memory by pulling out the retaining clips;
  • install new RAM;
  • secure the bar with holders.

This method allows you to quickly and effectively add PC performance.

Hardware Method: Ready Boost System

The essence of the computer improvement method is that a flash drive is connected to the USB input, which will serve as a source of additional RAM. Special software(Ready Boost) supported Microsoft Windows 7 and higher, can turn a USB drive into a data processing device.

Many users, when using the Ready Boost option, immediately try to take a larger drive, but this is not always necessary. The program can use external drives up to 256 GB on 64-bit Windows and only 4 GB on other OSes that support this feature.

Please note that when using this method Under no circumstances should you disconnect the USB drive. The technique of adding RAM can be used as an auxiliary technique, but as a permanent solution you should choose something else.

Software method: page file

Is it possible to add RAM to a computer using only the PC's reserves? New Windows versions have very useful function virtual memory. Essentially, these are hard drive reserves. To install, you need to go to: My Computer - Properties - Extra options, then select the "Performance" option, and in it - " Additional memory". Then you should install required values. This method will benefit owners of older processors.

When it becomes clear how to add a RAM stick to a computer, connect a flash drive correctly, or use computer resources, you can immediately begin work, but first you should evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each method. So, the most effective option would be to replace the RAM sticks.

Choosing RAM: compatibility with motherboard

Before purchasing new sticks, you should check the need to increase the performance of your computer. The technology may slow down various reasons, so first you need to check your laptop or PC for viruses, which eat up a huge share of the RAM. Next, you can clean your computer of unnecessary or outdated files and remove from startup those programs that are not needed when you turn on the PC. If everything is in order, you can select the appropriate device.

When choosing RAM, you must take into account that the motherboard must be compatible with it. In order to understand which temporary memory sticks are suitable for the motherboard, you need to:

  • go to the motherboard manufacturer’s website;
  • select the desired model;
  • open the instructions;
  • see the list of recommended options for OP strips.

Once the list of models has been studied, you can begin to select the appropriate option based on other parameters.

Technical parameters of RAM sticks

After determining compatibility, you should understand the necessary technical parameters. If you delve into all the details and follow the recommendations, solving the question of “how to install/add RAM” will not be difficult at all.

You should consider in detail the type and volume of memory, design features of the bar, operating modes, frequency and speed of operation, as well as some other parameters.

Type of memory

Today, there are several types of RAM: some of them are already outdated, others are so innovative that not all PCs support them.

The most sold (and therefore popular) are DDR3, or Double-Data-Rate, version three. Unlike the previous generation, DDR3 heats up less and has up to 2400 megahertz clock frequencies. Also this type RAM features low power consumption.

It is better not to mess with DDR1 and DDR2 memory standards, since they are outdated. There is also newest look- DDR4, which has clock frequency up to 4200 megahertz. This type of memory may not be supported by all devices.

Form factor

Form factor is the design features of the RAM strip. There are strips for laptops (SO-DIMM) and for PCs (DIMM). The first ones are usually small size and with fewer contacts. When choosing RAM for a PC or laptop, these characteristics must be supported by the motherboard.

Frequency and data transfer rate

Frequency and transmission speed are among the most important characteristics, which should be given Special attention when choosing. Frequency refers to the amount of information a computer can transmit in a certain time. Accordingly, the higher the indicator, the better the performance of the PC. When choosing, you also need to take into account the parameters that the motherboard supports.

Memory operating modes

New RAMs have special modes that affect the data transfer speed. There are four main types of modes:

  • Single Channel Mode - works when installing one bracket or with modules of different sizes; this is the slowest mode.
  • Dual Mode is symmetrical; strips of equal volume are installed in the connectors, and the speed is doubled compared to the first mode.
  • Triple Mode - uses three channels, and all have the same capacity, however, the data transfer speed of triple mode may be weaker than that of Dual.
  • Flex Mode - flexible mode, involves installing two bars with different volumes, but the same frequency.

The most popular option today remains the symmetrical mode (Dual Mode).

Memory

The characteristic is as important as the data transfer speed, and remains one of the key ones today. The idea is extremely simple: the more memory, the faster the PC runs.

When choosing a RAM strip, you should take into account the goals and tasks for which the PC will be used in the future. If this is work with office programs and Internet surfing, then 2 Gigabytes will be enough. Work involving the use of heavy programs, e.g. graphic editors or software for video processing, then 4 GB of RAM will be enough. For modern games, 8 GB of RAM is enough. Today, RAM has been developed with a large capacity, but there are very few programs that allow you to use the full potential of such devices, and they are rarely used by average users.

Timings

Timing is the delay time between a command sent to the device and its execution. The parameter also determines how fast the computer or laptop will work. If the values ​​are large, and therefore the delay is significant, the RAM processes the information slowly. How less time delays, the higher the data processing speed.

There is also a direct relationship between timings and OP frequency. The higher the frequency values, the longer the timings. Therefore, when choosing, you should be guided by the golden mean.

Manufacturer

There are many manufacturers of PC components. The best option- be guided by brand reputation, reviews of performance and reliability, and pricing policy companies. On this moment popular are:

  • Corsair.
  • Adata.
  • Kingston.
  • GOODRAM.
  • Kingmax.
  • Transcend.

Each produce provides a wide the lineup, so choose the RAM according necessary characteristics, quality and price are a no-brainer. And in general, figuring out how to add RAM to a computer and how to choose RAM strips is not difficult. It is enough to be superficially oriented in the technical characteristics.

Important information

Before the beginning self-installation It is necessary to study all recommendations and instructions. The following tips are general:

  1. When replacing slats, be sure to insert them all the way and secure them with clips. Otherwise, the computer will not see the components and will not boot.
  2. When choosing the RAM frequency, consider the support of the board and OS. Otherwise, your computer may experience problems.
  3. Even if new RAM is needed for powerful games, you shouldn’t spend your entire allocated budget on sticks larger than 8 GB.
  4. When working on the installation, you must act carefully, since the planks are fragile. You should also be sure to disconnect the PC from the network and carry out all manipulations exclusively with dry hands.
  5. The system may have a limitation on full use memory. In this case, even installing the brackets will not help add RAM. It turns out the following: the user added RAM, the computer does not use it. Also, one of the reasons is often a limitation in the motherboard. In addition, the board may not be installed correctly.

If everything is done correctly, then the question is: “How to add RAM to a computer?” will be resolved quickly and without additional complications.

April 4, 2014 | comments: 0

All technology becomes obsolete over time, both physically and morally. Slow and thoughtful PCs are being replaced by fast and compact smart machines. Trying to keep up with time and performance system requirements, users choose one of two solutions: either buy new technology, or modernize an existing one. The second option is much more profitable, because at least the case, power supply and hard drive will no longer need to be purchased again.

If for some reason you are afraid to touch this type of part, then it is better for you to contact a computer repair service.

Quite often, upgrading a PC (that is, improving parameters) begins with replacing RAM. This is natural, because the more memory your computer has, the faster it will be able to process current processes.


Video on replacing RAM.

Replace RAM in system unit Everyone can do it on their own. What to do for this:

  • Be sure to check if the memory type matches the socket on the motherboard. For example, you have an “old” motherboard with DDR2 connector. You decided to upgrade and bought a modern DDR3 memory stick. Naturally, this bar will not be relevant for your PC. Be careful.
  • Place the system unit on its side and remove the side cover.
  • Unclip the “tendrils” that secure the slot. Take out the old plank. Open the latches again and insert a new memory stick.

Typically, replacing a plank does not require much physical strength. Therefore, if something goes wrong, you should try to carefully separate the contacts. In any case, you can always get qualified assistance specialists in companies engaged in computer repair and maintenance.


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