RAM is the most common type of computer memory, and its size has a direct result on a computer's performance and speed. Whether you are updating PC's RAM, or building your own computer, this page provides information how to install RAM in a PC.

RAM is the most common type of computer memory, and its size has a direct result on a computer's performance and speed. Whether you are updating PC's RAM, or building your own computer, this page provides information how to install RAM in a PC.

(Creative Commons photo by Bitterjugg)

• Installing RAM will be necessary if you are building your own computer. It's also an easy way to boost your current computer's performance and speed.

• If you are building a computer and adding memory to it for the first time, determine how much RAM the computer will need.

1. The RAM you will need will depend on how you plan to use your computer.
2. Video editing, creation of complex graphics, saving many videos and pictures or playing video game with complex graphics are some activities that require a bigger RAM.
3. If you want to use the computer for basic tasks, a smaller-sized RAM might be sufficient.
4. Make sure the RAM is supported by the motherboard and processor.

• If you have a computer and want to upgrade its RAM, determine if it's necessary and if so, what type of RAM you need.

1. Open the Windows task manager and click on Performance. Look at the number next to the term available or free under Physical Memory. If it's near zero, you need more RAM. If there is much RAM left, you might need to troubleshoot the computer for other factors that could be slowing it down.
2. Check the manual of your computer to determine what type of RAM you need.

• Buy the RAM you will need for your computer. Make sure you buy it from a reputable retailer, as it's one of the fundamental components of your computer.

• Now it's time to install the RAM. Make sure you are familiar with how to ground yourself to protect yourself and the RAM from static electricity. Turn off and disconnect the computer. The instructions will differ depending on the PC model, but these are the general steps you will need to take:

1. Hold the RAM's edges, don't touch the chip or face of it.
2. Remove the panels of the computer case.
3. Locate the RAM slots. There are usually several of them; insert the RAM in the lowest-numbered slot available.
4. If there are no available slots, you will need to remove the current RAM.
5. Insert the RAM as directed in its instructions.
6. Reassemble the PC.
7. Plug it in and turn it on to verify the available RAM. If the added RAM has not been registered, unplug the computer and redo the installation.

• To install a RAM on a new or old computer, find out what type of RAM you need, purchase it from a reputable retailer and install the RAM in the computer. It's usually possible to add extra RAM without removing the current RAM. Make sure you verify that the RAM was registered before starting to use the computer.

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• Introduction
• Step 1: When Building a Computer
• Step 2: When Upgrading RAM
• Step 3: Purchasing RAM
• Step 4: Installing RAM
• Conclusion