How do I change or add RAM and other things to my Dell?

Question

I heard that people can't change or add components to Dell computers without sending it to Dell or something. Is this true? Or can I do things like that myself? If so, would I need components made by Dell? I have a Dell 8300 if that matters.

Answer 1

if you want to add some memory, most places have a database that will be able to tell you wnat type of modules you need.
at memory.com that's what i get for your Dell dimension 8300

System Type: Desktop
Standard Memory: 256MB removable
Maximum Memory: 4GB
Expansion Slots / Banks: 4 slots (2 banks of 2)
Comments / Notes: Systems shipped with 800MHz FSB processors require DDR400.
Systems shipped with 533MHz FSB processors require DDR333.
Modules must be ordered and installed in PAIRS for Dual Channel Mode.


the 256 MB modules are $33 each
the 512 MB modules are $58 each
the 1024 MB modules are $113 or $146 each

As there are 4 slots, you probalby already have two used, so you can get 2 more so you don't waste anything.

Answer 2

the main problem with dell p.c,s is they make them to their own specifications and that makes upgrading tricky sometimes
another problem is if it is still under warranty ,as soon as you open it you will void the warranty
however ,they still use standard motherboards and hard drives,ect,so it would probally be cheaper for you to do upgrades yourself,as dell would probally charge you around £80 for a simple memory upgrade when you can do this yourself
if you can wait to upgrade until the warranty runs out that would help,but otherwise ,dont be scared to try upgrading,its very simple,most new components come with instructions so there is nothing much that can go wrong
dell like to think they are the only people who can upgrade their p.c,s but this is not true,like i said before they use normal parts in their p.c,s ,they just get them in bulk,and thats why they can sell them so cheap
go on,stick that memory in,its probally the cheapest and best upgrade you can do
good luck

Answer 3

Not sure about Dells.. I remember that there were some puters that were very proprietary that way.. Check with their website.. one thing though, which is probably a certainty, if you open the case, you probably void whatever warranty you have.
However, if you still want to do it, check and find out what kind of ram you have inside now, and get the same kind, ie, ddr, ddr2, whether it's pc2700, pc3200, etc, and front bus speed..
Go to www.crucial.com and they'll help ya out.

Answer 4

You can logon to dell with your service tag and find the details on your existing ram type (PC2100/PC2700/etc...), the website also has pictures showing you how to install the ram yourself. Any generic brand would do. Just write down the specs from the website and take it to a store.

Answer 5

Phone them and ask about what upgrades you can add to it, they will send you the correct parts. Adding RAM to a PC is as easy as falling off a log!

Answer 6

Your computers user manual will explain how to add ram and other components.

Answer 7

you can open up your dell chassis if its not under warranty anymore and note down the part number for your memory and can order more modules by phone. if there are free slots for more modules.

Answer 8

no no no no
ihave my dell i changed my 256 ram to 512 ram
i'm sure you do this by your self

Answer 9

A philips screwdriver and some expermentation my friend, that's how I learned back in 1996

Answer 10

You can do it yourself. You would just have to research what you need to change and what is a viable replacement.