How do I install memory - I've been given 256mb?

Question

My PC has 256mb at the moment, so this will double my memory - except I don't know how to put it in. Someone told me you just have to unscrew the casing from the tower and there is a slot to put the memory in. Is this correct? Can anyone tell me how to do this please?

Answer 1

The slot is at right of the processor fan.

Answer 2

Get a program called Everest from http://www.lavalys.com/products/overview.php?pid=3&lang=en and download the demo.

This will tell you what RAM you have currently.
Then you can check both are compatible.

Assuming then all is correct, is just a matter of slotting in and pushing down. The clips close automatically and will only go in one way. Make sure you use slot 0, slot 1. A little gentle force might be needed.

Ebay is the place for cheap ram. Everest will tell you what you need. If a very old board, bigger ram may be incompatible. As you have 256 already, then assuming same type of RAM your new 256 should be ok.

If one stick is PC133 and the other PC100 this will still work, only the PC100 will slow the PC133 down a bit.

Answer 3

Assuming it is the correct memory module for your PC here's the steps. Turn off computer, take off case, ground yourself by touching the power supply (the metal box inside the case that the power cord plugs into and has lots of wires going from it to power your motherboard and drives) to prevent static discharge, find your memory slots (hopefully not buried under your power supply or drive cage like in a Dell), flip back the tabs at the ends of the slot, insert the module straight down into the slot the only way it will fit, push down until it locks in place, turn it on to make sure it works, put the case back on and you're done.

Answer 4

memory upgrades are quite easy to do,simply open the case,and you will see the memory,its either 2 to 4 long banks with white clips at either end,and it is situated next to the processor
to install your memory,make sure you have a free memory bank slot,and that the white clips are pulled back ,using a torch(get someone else to hold it pointing into the case),take the memory module(only touch the sides,not the actual module chips) and gently lower the module into place,dont force it,it will only go in one way,and gently press down until the white clips clip into place,this will secure the memory into place
after that,close the case,and once you boot up,you may get a update message regarding the installed memory,follow the instructions,this may require you to press a key,or it may just simply boot up,all p.c,s are different
once you are back on the desktop,right click my computer and press properties,this will then show you your p.c,s memory,which will now be 512mb
troubleshooting
memory wont work...incompatible...use the same frequency i.e pc2700,3200 or in sdram pc 100 pc 133
not full memory displayed.....corrupted module,change for a new module
never except a memory module of anyone which isnt in a)a anti-static bag or 2)in a memory case(a moulded plastic case you get memory in)
good luck

Answer 5

Your computer's current memory will be in the slots. Open up the PC and you will see memory similar to the one you want to install. It just plugs right in. Some you have to unscrew but on my PC it just pops out.

http://www.oempcworld.com/support/Install_DDR.htm for more help

Answer 6

READ YOUR PC MANUAL

If you don't have one, go out to the manufacturer's website and look up "downloads" for your PC model. There should be a downloadable manual in PDF format you can look at. There will be specific diagrams for the inside of your case.

Also, make sure the memory you were given is compatible, before you waste time on the inside of your case. You can find this too in the manual or at the website...

Answer 7

You shouldn't do it if you can't, but its always good to try something new. Run Crucial Memory Test to determine the type of ram you have and then just purchase it online. Before you open up the pc make sure you ground yourself. The rest of the instructions should come with the manual. Good Luck

Answer 8

It has to be the right kind of memory, so you need to know how to check that and you need a diagram. Theres a website that shows step by step how to do it, I can't find the URL. Search Answers because someone asked this question and the site was posted in the answer.

Answer 9

If you open your computer, there is only one place it will fit. It isn't that hard IF YOU HAVE THE RIGHT MEMORY. If the person just gave you some out of no where, it probably is the wrong kind.

Answer 10

unscrew your cabinet and see and understand the layout of your m/board and find the RAM slots in it. be sure that you fix the newer one just adjacent to the old on. or else your ram will not be detected.