If your computer is running slow, purchasing and installing extra RAM memory might help you boost its performance. You will also need to install RAM memory if you are building your own computer. This page is a guide on how to install RAM in a laptop.

The physical process required to install RAM in a PC or MAC computer is exactly the same. It doesn't even matter if you would like to install RAM in a Desktop or Laptop computer!

This How-To will show you how to figure out which type of RAM you need, how to open the case of your computer, how to seat your new RAM properly, and how to verify that it has been installed in your computer.

RAM is the most common type of computer memory. Although several other factors contribute to a computer's performance, the size of the RAM has a significant impact on how efficiently and fast a computer runs. Before installing extra RAM on a laptop computer, troubleshoot it to determine if there are other problems that are slowing it down.

(Creative Commons photo by Bitterjugg)

• The first step to installing RAM to a laptop is to choose the appropriate RAM for your computer use.

1. If you already have a processor, make sure it supports the RAM you pick.
2. The motherboard also needs to support the RAM.
3. The speed of RAM is measured in MHz.
4. There are three types of RAM: SD RAM is up to 133 MHz, DDR RAM is up to 400 MHz and RD RAM is up to 800 MHz. SD RAM is an older type of memory used with older computer processors.

Visit http://www.crucial.com/ and run the "Crucial System Scanner Tool" (see bottom of page for more information). This tool works with both Mac and PC's. It will scan your computer to tell you specifically what type and speed of RAM you need. Then, you can search the local and online stores for the best price.

• After purchasing RAM, it's time to install it. Make sure you are familiar with the precautions needed in order to prevent electrical shock and damage to the RAM by grounding yourself.

1. Turn your computer off and unplug it.
2. If you're installing RAM in a laptop, remove the battery and press the power button to fully discharge it. On a desktop, unplug the machine and wait for 10 minutes for the capacitors to discharge.
3. Ensure that all static electricity is discharged from your body. An anti-static wrist strap is ideal however simply touching a grounded piece of metal will temporarily discharge static from your body.
4. Remove the panels of the computer case.
5. Locate the current RAM, if you are updating it. If there are extra RAM slots next to it, you can keep the current memory and add a new one.
6. Locate the RAM slot, if you are building your own laptop.
7. Make sure you push it inside in the right direction, as it can only be installed in one way.
8. Push hard enough so that you can hear a clicking sound.
9. Put back in place any components you had to remove to get to the RAM.

• To make sure the RAM was properly installed, verify the available RAM on the laptop.

1. Turn on the computer.
2. Click on "My Computer" on a PC and "About this Macintosh" on a Mac.
3. If the RAM available is incorrect, turn off and disconnect the laptop and redo the installation.

• Whether you are installing extra RAM in an old laptop or building your own laptop, make sure you buy the appropriate RAM for the computer and its properties. Install it according to above recommendations and then verify that the RAM has been installed on your laptop.

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Crucial Technology (Crucial.com) sells RAM memory for almost any laptop - new or old. Use the memory selector. You will get reference pricing and generally the lowest prices.

If you use Crucial.com, consider buying through an online rebate shopping website. For example, Mr Rebates gives you 6% cash rebate and has the following coupon specials:

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• Orders over $500 will not be awarded any cash-back.

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Check out the videos below to learn more through other "how to's" about technology.

1. How to Protect Your Computer From Viruses
2. How to Protect Your Computer From Malware
3. How to Back Up Your Computer Hard Drive
4. How to Build a Gaming Computer
5. How to Clean a Laptop Screen
6. How to Make Your Computer Run Faster
7. How to Start Windows in Safe Mode
8. How to Buy a Computer
9. How to Install Ram in a Laptop
10. How to Check for Windows Updates
11. How to Optimize Your Computers Visual Performance
12. How to Optimize Your Computers Virtual Memory
13. How to Check Your Computers Wireless Security
14. Computer Keyboard Shortcuts
15. How to Optimize Settings in Control Panel

• Introduction
• Step 1: Choosing RAM
• Step 2: Installation
• Step 3: After the Installation
• Conclusion