I have to open my computer for to add memory to it; how do I open it and where is the memory placed?

Answer 1

If you have to ask this here, then you should probably get someone to help you with it.

If you had 100 different computers, you would probably have at leats 30 different ways to do this properly...

First, power down / Shut Down and then UNPLUG the big black power plug from the back of the computer.

The left side panel will need to come off.
There are usually just two screws in the back that you take out,
then slide the left panel back just a little and it should come off.

Now it's easier to lay the computer onto its right side, if you can,
so you can look down into it.

(If it is one of the models that lies flat on your desk, you will need to take out 4 to 8 screws out of the back, then pull the whole case top off.)

You should see the memory slots. there are usually three of them, but sometimes there are only 2 and sometimes there are 4. They will be side by side and will look exactly alike.
They will be the ones that are about 1/4 inch wide, about 4 to 5 inches long, and very close together, about 1/4 inch apart.
They are usually vertical, but I have seen some horziontal.
Slide your new memory into the next vacant slot. MAKE SURE to line it up properly. It has a slot, sometimes 2, that will only let it go in ONE WAY! Push firmly so that it seats properly, then check the tab on each side to be sure that they are fully engaged or closed, usually that means all the way up.

That's it!
Stand the PC back up, reconnect any cables or connectors that you removed, put the big black power cable back into its plug and turn the power on. (I would leave the Left cover off for now, until you know for sure that you are finished inside the PC.

Couple of notes here...

Make sure to get memory that is compatible with your computer's
make and model / compatible with your mother board (MoBo) / and compatible with your existing memory! OTHERWISE THE UPGRADE WON'T WORK!

You may have to go into the computer's BIOS, or setup, to tell it that you added more memory. If the computer doesn't auto-detect the memory, then power down the computer, wait about 30 seconds and then power it back up.
While it is coming up, press the "Delete" key every 3 - 5 seconds
to get to the BIOS setup. (If the delete key doesn't get you there, try it again with the "F10" key, or the "F1" key, or the "F2" key.

It's a good idea to get a small vacuum (Or a can of compressed air, like from Radio Shack or even WalMart) and clean out the inside of the computer while you have it apart like this.

Answer 2

Check your manufacturer's web site for detailed directions on how to open your computer's case, as well as where on the motherboard the memory is located. Sometimes it's not as straightforward as it sounds.

Before starting any work on your computer, make sure it is powered down completely (not just in standby), and that the power cord has been removed.

Most cases have a cover that is secured by 2 or more screws which must be removed. Then you have to slide the cover in one direction or another to free the mechanical interlock tabs that hold the cover in place.

Once open, you should be able to look down onto the motherboard. Memory is generally held in long plastic slots (usually white, but I've seen black ones) which have locking tabs on either end. Sometimes you have to remove other internal pieces to get to the memory, sometimes not.

Memory must be properly seated in the correct orientation. Do NOT force it - bending any of the pins in the receptical could irreparably harm your computer. If its DDR or DDR2 memory, it should slide easily into the slot, and the tabs should close with a "click."

Memory must also be the proper speed and size. Again, you'll have to verify your memory with your manufacturer - don't assume that because it works in your friend's computer that it will work in yours - you need the model number of the machine, not just that it's a Dell or Compaq or Gateway.

Answer 3

Your question is WAY too general. Every machine is different - different case design, latches, etc. You will have to either take a good look at the case and figure it out, or check the owner manual, or check the manufacturer's website for information.

Memory is installed in memory slots. However, since it is apparent you don't know much about hardware, how did you know which memory modules to buy? In any case, the are usually long slots, with clips on the end, that match the length of the memory modules. Make sure not to touch the gold edges of the modules - they are very static sensitive. The modules only go in one way. Just push them in until the clips lock.

Answer 4

It should be fairly easy to open - if you find yourself taking out a bunch of screws and bending back metal plates, you're probably doing it wrong.
Most newer computers either have a side panel that comes off, or the top and sides are secured to the back with one screw that can be removed without a screwdriver.
Once you get it open, look for a memory module already on the motherboard that looks like the one in your hand. There should be an empty slot next to it.
Make sure you push STRAIGHT DOWN on the new memory to lock it in place - do not wiggle it from side to side or try to put one side in first.
Good luck.

Answer 5

BEST ANSWER,

DEAR MEMBER,
i can't tell u how to open cpu box without seeing ur computer casing so lacing and installing memory is so easy just open ur box and u will c black coloured slots 3 or 4 just lightly open two clips then according to the cut insert the memory than then set the clips

and u r done

thankU

Answer 6

Step 1) Get hammer
Step 2) Smash open side (carefully)
Step 3) Stick it into the bit with the electronics and the holes
Step 4) Sellotape the side back on

or if you have a Mac,

Step 1) Click 'More RAM' in Macintosh HD

Answer 7

This information should be available on the manufacturer's website that made your computer, If not then try your local library for a book on how to upgrade computers.

Answer 8

extremetech.com is a good place to look or
look on yahoo search for installing RAM
that would be the easiest way
i'm assuming you have a desktop since its much easier to put ram in

Answer 9

Get someone that knows a bit about computers to do it or you could do more harm than good.

Answer 10

in the memory slots on the mother board, they are long and sit in a row you will see them.