Installing ddr3 memory modules. Random access memory

“How to install (add) RAM to a computer”

Sooner or later the moment comes when random access memory becomes small. The needs grow, but the memory remains in place, then the game does not start, then the system slows down, or some program has no room to fully develop.

No problem, you can add RAM to your computer. Now let's look at how to add RAM.

First of all, you need to make sure that there are free memory slots.
To do this, remove the housing cover and take a look.

The photo shows that there are 4 memory slots, only one of which is occupied. There are still plenty of excellent places.

The next thing to determine is the type already installed memory.
Total for desktop computers There are 3 main types of RAM. Let's list: DDR, DDR2, DDR3. In turn, these types of memory are divided by speed.

So, let's look at what specific memory you have. This should be written on the memory line itself. In my case it is Hynix PC2-6400 2Gb, i.e. in simple language 2Gb DDR2-800.

It follows from this that I can only add memory of this type (DDR2-800), but the volume can be different, usually 1, 2 or 4Gb. The added volume directly depends on the characteristics of the motherboard. This can be found in the documentation for it. In any case, in order not to miss, you can safely add the same line that is already installed (if you have a volume of no more than 4GB).
The main thing is that the memory type and frequency must match, but the company may be different (although the same ones are preferable).

To install new line RAM must be disabled system unit from the network, move the latches on the memory slots to the sides and, turning the memory correctly, insert it all the way into the connector. The latches should close.

I repeat once again: make sure that the cut on the memory line coincides with the protrusion on the motherboard slot.

That's all, the process itself is not complicated, but the main thing is preparation and knowledge.

What to do if not free space for RAM?

Then you need to again look at what memory is installed and how much there is. For example, there are two 512MB slots, i.e. together 1GB. In this case, it would be advisable to install 2 1GB sticks or one 2GB stick instead. Do not forget that it is advisable to know what the maximum allowable volume per connector is.

Updated – 2017-02-05

How to add RAM to a computer? Without memory, a computer cannot work. But even with a small memory, it will not be work, but only torment. Any file will take half an hour to open, and some may not open at all. And there’s nothing to say about games. They simply won’t load for you. What to do? How to add RAM to a computer? Is it really necessary to buy a new computer just for memory alone? I can reassure you. New computer no need to buy. Just add memory. It's easy to say, you answer. And I’ll answer you - it’s easy to do.

Nothing could be simpler. Try it once, and this operation will no longer be a problem for you.
More often than not, memory has to be added rather than changed. By itself, it is reliable and rarely fails. I have computers that are already 12-13 years old, and their memory has never failed. And so, we add memory to the computer.

First we need to figure out what kind of memory we need ( DDR, DDR 2 or DDR 3), and which maximum volume memory supported by your motherboard. If you have documentation for motherboard, then look at what memory slots (connectors) are on your motherboard. If you don’t have documentation, you can look it up on the Internet. Well, if you cannot determine what kind of motherboard you have, then the easiest way is to remove the memory from your unit and show it to the seller.

Before touching the memory, be sure to remove it from yourself, otherwise you risk not adding, but changing the memory completely.

And so, you found necessary memory. Now let's see how to add memory to a computer:

• Disconnect your computer from electrical network. Completely disconnect all cables from the processor unit (keyboard, mouse, speakers, monitor, and other devices connected to it).

• Remove the left cover from the system unit.
• Locate an empty memory slot on the motherboard. They look like this (their color can be bright yellow or red and blue):

• Blow dust out of slots. Grab the memory carefully by the edges. Try not to touch microchips and other parts. Look where the key notch is on the slot and rotate the memory card so that the key on it aligns with this jumper when you insert the card into the slot.

For some reason among the majority computer users There is an opinion that diving into the depths of your pet with a screwdriver in your hands is the lot of exclusively unfriendly bearded men in frayed sweaters, and there is nothing for a mere mortal to do there. Today we will try to at least partially debunk this myth.

Computer RAM modules are components of a modern desktop computer that are both important and vulnerable. They are very sensitive to overheating and voltage surges. Dust that accidentally gets into a memory slot can cause or even make its further operation impossible. As a result, the user (including the most ordinary person who does not have special knowledge and skills) may well be faced with the need for such a thing as replacing RAM.

Installing RAM on the motherboard may also be necessary if the user wanted to give himself and the computer a gift and a little. Still, the rule that there is never too much memory has not become obsolete since the advent of computers.

In both described cases, they often resort to the help of acquaintances whose knowledge in the computer field is above average. Sometimes, if you don’t mind spending money, they call some familiar acquaintances who, for a fee, will help carry out all the necessary manipulations. And then they are surprised that they demand money from them for 5 minutes of work.

Well, we - frugal users, so let’s try to figure out for ourselves such an issue as installing RAM.

Stage one - you need to decide which one you need. There are several ways to do this. The first (if the computer is still working) is to use special utilities, which allow you to determine, without opening the case. To determine the type of memory, absolutely suitable free utility CPU‑Z, which will give you a lot of useful information about the processor and motherboard. What is important is that this utility is absolutely free.

If installing RAM is necessary due to the untimely “death” of old modules, you can use the documentation for the motherboard that came with the computer. If you cannot find the documentation, you will have to open the case and remove the modules yourself. To do this, you just need to gently press on the two clamps that hold each memory module at the ends. The memory stick will come out of the slot on its own. After this, you can either read the exact characteristics (frequency, capacity and type of memory) on the sticker, which is located on the bar itself, or take it to the store and show it to the seller - he is no stranger to this.

Well, you bought what you wanted, and now the most important step is installing RAM in the computer. We open the case and find the RAM slots. As a rule, they are on the motherboard to the right of the processor, much less often - on top.

In the majority modern computers It is better to install memory modules in pairs, and the modules must be from the same manufacturer and based on the same chips. That is, it is better to immediately purchase a pair of planks. In this case, you will achieve memory performance that will slightly increase its performance. Much less common are computers with three- and four-channel RAM, but this is still rare. Slots into which memory must be installed at the same time are usually marked with a certain color. Therefore, if you are replacing memory, you must remove two modules from slots of the same color. If you add, insert new modules into the same slots.

Carefully insert the memory module into the empty slot. After making sure that the cutouts on the module coincide with the protrusions in the connector itself, carefully press on the bar. It should fit into the slot without excessive effort, and the latches on the sides should automatically snap into place and securely fix the memory module in the slot. If this does not happen, do not try to latch them yourself. Better remove the bar and try again.

Yes, it goes without saying that both the installation of RAM and its removal should take place on a computer completely disconnected from the power supply.

When the modules are installed, put on the case cover, connect the power and turn on the computer. If you did everything correctly, at the stage BIOS boot You will be able to enjoy the RAM counter, which will show the new amount of RAM.

(English) we walked around basic concepts and characteristics of RAM. In this article we want to touch on topics that often cause controversy, and we will try to understand the following myths and statements:

1. All DDR3 memory is the same
2. Just need to add more RAM
3. There are only a few DIMM manufacturers
4. DDR-3200 support means any RAM can be used
5. When installing different RAM modules, the RAM operates at the speed (timings) of the slowest DIMM
6. It is cheaper to buy two sets of DIMMs than one large and expensive set
7. RAM works faster when all slots are occupied
8. RAM faster than 1600 MT/s does not provide performance gains
9. 8 GB capacity will last for the next ten years
10. You will never be able to use 16 GB of memory
11. I don't use all available memory, so additional memory will not give speedup
12. 64-bit OS allows you to use any amount of RAM
13. 1.65V RAM Can Damage Intel Processors
14. Dual channel mode doubles the data transfer speed, meaning the RAM runs twice as fast

Myths about RAM | All DDR3 memory is the same

This topic alone deserves a separate article, but we will try to discuss it briefly and outline several points.

1. Let's remember the RAM line Kingston Fury, which are not equipped with an XMP profile and instead use plug and play technology. Modules have reasonable price, look nice, come with colorful heatsinks, and are aimed at users of older systems who would like to upgrade their RAM. But since this memory is PnP based, it will only work with certain chipsets: Intel's H67, P67, Z68, Z77, Z87 and H61, along with AMD's A75, A87, A88, A89, A78 and E35. You can also add Z87 and Z97 here. The list of chipsets is taken from the company's website.
2. The chips themselves are also different:

• Most RAM manufactured today uses memory chips high density 4 Gbit, and in the old DDR3 chips of lower density of 2 Gbit are installed. Old memory controllers can only handle low-density chips. One of our editors recently discovered that none of the P55 motherboards were willing to work with its 8GB modules. And if you install memory with different characteristics, the module may not be detected or may lose stability.
• Memory chips are produced by many companies that adhere to their own specifications. Each line of chips is tested or binned, and according to the quality of the chip is labeled and allocated into different series.

We generally recommend checking with RAM manufacturers, who spend a lot of time testing memory on different motherboards. Motherboard manufacturers also provide Qualified Vendor Lists (QVLs) of RAM whose products they have tested on a specific board. But usually these lists indicate a small number of manufacturers whose memory was in the laboratory. Therefore, it is better to check the list of the memory manufacturer. you can find many useful tips and recommendations on RAM modules for specific platforms and motherboards, as well as information about their speed and compatibility with various processors.

Myths about RAM | Just need to add more RAM

JEDEC is an association of manufacturers electronic devices and developers who set industry standards for widespread adoption among their members. Since some RAM manufacturers have exceeded the JEDEC maximum of DDR3-1600 CAS 11 (and later CAS 9) and are offering tighter timings and higher data rates, mixing different RAM modules has not been as easy as originally thought.

Simply put, mixing RAM modules from different sets does not provide a guarantee stable operation, even if you have two identical sets of the same model line. We would like to add that DIMMs that do not work well together can often, but not always, be made to work by adjusting the voltage and/or timings. For the article "DDR3 memory: how to improve system performance?" two companies, instead of single sets of 32 GB RAM with a speed of 2400 MT/s, sent us a pair of identical sets of modules in a 2 x 8 GB configuration. Initially they did not work together, but with the help of minor adjustments we achieved a positive result.

What is the problem? After all, the modules have the same frequencies, timings and voltage.

DRAM basically consists of memory chips soldered onto a circuit board. During the RAM production process a certain model the manufacturer may use up some of the batch printed circuit boards, and then switch to new PCBs from a different production batch, which as a result may affect a number of characteristics.

The same thing can happen with solder. The manufacturer may start using a different type that has slightly modified conductive properties.

Also, the crystals themselves may be different. During the production process, chips undergo binning, that is, sorting according to their quality.

Let's look at this concept from a theoretical perspective. One production batch may have, say, 1000 memory chips that are separated or binned. 200 chips can be classified as chips by the manufacturer entry level, 350 slightly better, 300 chips even better and 150 first-class chips. Then they sell these chips to different manufacturers memory modules.

If you buy DDR3-1866 memory modules from several companies, you will most likely receive different PCBs, solder with different conductive properties, and quite possibly different levels of chips from different manufacturers.

The memory chips themselves are produced by several different companies, which only exacerbates the compatibility problem. You probably already understand why mixing different RAM modules often causes problems.

We also noticed that most of the new RAM lines use 4 Gbit chips, while the older lines use 2 Gbit.

Myths about RAM | There are only a few DIMM manufacturers

This is both a myth and a fallacy. There are several memory chip companies and many RAM module manufacturers. There are RAM modules made by one or more companies for other companies. For example, RAM AMD Radeon manufactured by Patriot and VisionTek.

Myths about RAM | DDR-3200 support means any RAM can be used

To use expensive 3200 MT/s memory, you need a processor that can handle such high data transfer rates. Otherwise, the memory will only work in 1333, 1600 or 1866 modes.

In the days of processors Intel LGA 775 overclocking of the CPU and RAM was performed primarily through the FSB ( system bus). Let's say you have a Q6600 processor and your motherboard supports 1066 MHz FSB. In this case, the processor will operate at a native frequency of 2.4 GHz, and the memory at a speed of 1066 MT/s. If you want to overclock the processor by increasing the FSB frequency to 1333, then it will run at 3 GHz, and the memory will run at 1333 MT/s. In other words, the memory speed was limited by the FSB frequency limit. The memory controller was located in the chipset, usually in the northbridge of the motherboard, and also operated at FSB frequency.

Today the memory controller has moved to the CPU. So the main determining factor in memory operation at advertised frequencies is the CPU. Processors based on the Haswell architecture are designed for DDR3-1600 memory, and mid-range and top level, not belonging to the K series, as a rule, can work quite stably with memory up to 1866 - 2133 MT/s. K-series processors are overclockable and their controllers support higher data rate modules aimed at enthusiasts.

AMD's current line of FX processors support "up to 1866 MT/s per DIMM channel." However, you may encounter problems running memory in 1866 mode on entry-level and sometimes mid-range processors. This is partly due to the fact that the FX processors' memory controller is optimized for DDR3-1333 (according to the BIOS and Kernel Programming Guide). Like any other processor, FX chips can be overclocked to run at speeds even higher than DDR3-1866, but this will have a negative impact on stability.

Myths about RAM | When installing different RAM modules, the RAM operates at the speed (timings) of the slowest DIMM

Let's say you have a DDR3-1600 CAS 9 module and you add another module, but this is 1866 CAS 9. This may cause the RAM to work at the settings specified motherboard default, i.e. 1333 CAS 9 or 10 (many motherboards AMD boards uses 1066 by default). Or both modules will operate in 1600 CAS 9 (10 or even 11) mode if DOCP, EOCP, XMP or AMP technologies were enabled before installing the DDR3-1866 module.

But you can also set the parameters manually. Typically, in such scenarios, we would try the 1866 mode at 10-10-10-27, increasing the voltage a little, about +0.005 V. Depending on the results, you can adjust the memory controller voltage.

Myths about RAM | It is cheaper to buy two sets of DIMMs than one large and expensive set

Even if you buy two identical sets, there is no guarantee that they will work together. The RAM modules sold in one kit have been tested for compatibility. Manufacturers do not guarantee the performance of mixed sets, even if they use the same memory module models.

Buyers often do this with high-speed modules and rely on XMP for setup. When XMP is enabled, the motherboard can read the profile of two sticks of RAM and set minor timings accordingly, but the tRFC timings for two modules may be 226, while a combination of four modules will require a value of 314. This problem is difficult to detect because users rarely go to the secondary timing settings.

Myths about RAM | RAM works faster when all slots are occupied

Two sticks of RAM put less load on the memory controller than four. Less power is required, the memory controller needs less voltage to run smoothly, and the RAM usually runs a little faster, although it's not noticeable. The same goes for three- and four-channel motherboards. Users are often misled into thinking that four DIMMs (often sold as quad-channel sets) always operate in quad-channel mode, even though dual-channel motherboards cannot operate this way at all.

Myths about RAM | RAM faster than 1600 MT/s does not provide performance gains

The accuracy of this statement depends on several factors. For processors with built-in graphics core or APU this is completely incorrect, since the video core uses system memory, and the faster it is, the better!

Most RAM tests measure read, write, and copy speeds. Many gaming tests when changing RAM 1600 to 2133 they show an increase in frame rate from 3 to 5 FPS. This is because in most games, RAM is primarily used as a conduit for transferring information to the GPU, as well as a buffer for frequently accessed data. The fact remains that RAM can improve FPS slightly. Since the price difference between 1600 and 2133 RAM isn't always that big, sometimes buying faster RAM can be worth it.

Besides WinRAR archiver takes data from RAM and compresses it into RAM before writing it to disk. When changing DDR3-1600 memory to 2400, the speed increase in tests using WinRAR can reach 25 percent. There are many other memory-intensive applications: video editing, image manipulation, CAD, and so on. Even slight advantage in speed will help save time if you work in such applications.

If you use your PC in an office single-tasking mode, for example, taking notes, then browsing the web, then watching a video, then you definitely do not need faster RAM. If you prefer to multitask, for example, you have a bunch of browser tabs open at the same time, while you work with large tables or watch videos in a window, or work with images and perform virus scans in background, then more fast memory may bring certain benefits.

You can check this yourself by running a few similar applications with 1600 MT/s memory and then with faster RAM. Once you've downloaded a few apps, run a benchmark e.g. SiSoftware Sandra and do the archiving at the same time large file With using WinRAR. While these tasks are being completed, walk through the open Windows windows, then check Sandra's results and archiving execution time.

Myths about RAM | 8 GB capacity will last for the next ten years

If you really don't like multitasking, then 8GB will be enough. But this does not apply to gamers and enthusiasts. Five years ago 2 GB was enough, then 4 GB and so on.

Another fact: computer manufacturers often skimp on RAM. For example, when 2 GB seemed enough, they installed 1 GB. Today, 6 - 8 GB of RAM is considered the norm and 16 GB is also not uncommon, so it is unlikely that the 8 GB level will last long as a standard. Games are using more and more RAM. If you are collecting new system and if you want it to not lose its relevance in a few years, we recommend 16 GB of RAM.

Myths about RAM | You will never be able to use 16 GB of memory

This misconception is a continuation of the previous one, but is more relevant to users of applications that intensively use RAM, as well as to those who work with large volumes files and data. The more RAM you have, the more data it can hold for instant re-access, instead of having to go to the file on your hard drive or the network to download again.

Many people use more than 20GB of memory in their system at once almost every day, and this is becoming the norm among Tom's Hardware forum members, who often discuss maximizing the performance of their 8GB and 16GB RAM kits.

Remember also that manufacturers do a lot of research and contact with software developers and users. Therefore, there are certainly reasons for the fact that modern motherboards are designed to support 32 GB, 64 GB and 128 GB (or more) RAM.

Myths about RAM | I'm not using all the RAM, so additional memory won't give a boost

In some situations, increasing the amount of RAM can speed up the execution of some processes. Many programs adjust the amount of data stored in memory based on the amount of RAM available, so more RAM saves time by storing more frequently used data in RAM (rather than on the hard drive). This can be especially useful when you are working on projects with a variety of images or videos, CAD, GIS, virtual machines etc. Another advantage of having a large amount of RAM is the ability to create a RAM disk for downloading games, applications and other data. Such a disk has its hidden disadvantages, but many users are delighted with this opportunity.

Myths about RAM | 64-bit OS allows you to use any amount of RAM

Many people believe that with 64-bit operating system It is possible to use an infinite amount of RAM, but this is not the case. As an example, here are the RAM limits in Windows 7:

And on Windows 8:

Myths about RAM | 1.65V Memory May Damage Intel Processors

For its processors, Intel recommends memory with a voltage of 1.50 V and a certain data transfer rate. For Haswell it is DDR3-1600. However, what is confusing is the fact that Intel also certifies RAM (even DDR3-1600) that operates at 1.60 and 1.65 volts. Keep in mind that a voltage of 1.60 - 1.65 V is considered normal for DDR3-2133 and higher RAM.

Most lower data rate memory (such as DDR3-1333 and 1600) use 1.50V or less. We recommend that you avoid purchasing RAM at these speeds if the voltage is 1.65V, as this may mean that the manufacturer used the cheapest and lowest quality memory chips. Why do RAM with good chips even need a voltage of 1.60 -1.65 V? To further protect yourself from problems in the future, we would recommend not buying DDR3-1866 memory that exceeds 1.50V unless it has lower timings (CL7 or CL8).

Myths about RAM | Dual channel mode doubles the data transfer speed, meaning the RAM runs twice as fast

This is another misconception. When you install two sticks in dual-channel mode, the memory controller does not treat the RAM as two separate 64-bit devices, but as one 128-bit device. Theoretically, this should double throughput, but in practice the speed increase is 20-50 percent per Intel processors and slightly less on AMD chips.

This article was written with the participation of many forum members, but there are too many of them to list them all. We would also like to thank the wonderful people at companies like Corsair, G.Skill and Team Group, whose knowledge and experience in the field has been a great help to us.

As always, comments and constructive criticism on the article are welcome.

Sooner or later, the capabilities of your PC will seem to you not as good as you would like, you will want to add RAM in order to increase the speed of the system, but how?
How to increase RAM?

How to install additional RAM?
For this purpose, we will install an additional RAM stick; this is a small board, like in the picture, which will add the desired memory to us.

Selecting RAM modules

In order to install additional memory, you need to first find out the following characteristics of your computer:

— Type of RAM used
- Maximum memory size supported by the motherboard
— Availability of free slots for installing additional memory modules

The Speccy program will help you find out what type of RAM is used in your computer. With this very useful utility available details not only about the type of RAM, but also about all the parameters installed modules memory, including manufacturer, serial number and release date.
Using Speccy, you can also find out your PC's motherboard type.

To determine the amount of memory that can be additionally installed on your computer, you need to find out maximum size RAM supported by the motherboard. This information can be found in the instruction manual motherboard or on the board manufacturer's website.

When choosing a RAM for your computer, optimal solution old RAM modules will be replaced with new ones of the same type with a larger total memory capacity. This is due to the fact that when installing purchased memory modules in addition to existing ones, you always run the risk of getting a conflict between the RAM modules. As a result of such a conflict, your PC simply will not be able to work.

In order to reduce the likelihood of a conflict between memory modules, it is advisable to install all the RAM from one manufacturer. However, if yours, this will be difficult to do, since manufacturers also change over time.

At the same time, the computer may work fine with RAM from different manufacturers. The likelihood of conflict-free operation of a PC depends on a number of characteristics of memory modules, which we will not consider now, and this is not really necessary.

Installing memory modules

Memory modules are installed in specially designated slots (connectors, sockets) on the motherboard.

In this motherboard, the RAM operates in dual-channel mode. As you can see, the channel slots have different colors. For proper operation RAM in this mode requires that the configuration of the modules in the channels be the same, that is, that the symmetry of the channels is maintained.

Before installing memory modules, disconnect the system unit from the network and disconnect all external devices. Open the side cover and locate the RAM slots on the motherboard.

Pull down the latches located on the edges of the free slot in which you want to install the memory module. Insert the module into the slot so that the cutout on the module aligns with the protrusion in the slot. Gently push down on the module until you hear a click, indicating that the memory module is locked into the slot.

Close the system unit and connect to it all devices that were previously disconnected. Turn on your computer and make sure it is normal operation. There are several ways to check whether the memory module you installed is working.

Click right click mouse on the “Computer” icon, select “Properties” in the menu that opens and see whether the amount of RAM has increased or not. If the amount of installed memory has not changed, it means that the memory module is not fully inserted into the slot (not secured). In this case, you need to reopen the system unit and insert the memory module as expected
Launch Task Manager by pressing the combination Ctrl keys+ Shift + Esc. Go to the “Performance” tab and check the amount of physical memory (the “Total” item). If the memory size has increased, then you did everything right.
Check your memory settings using Speccy programs or CPU-Z. An increased amount of RAM indicates correct installation memory modules.