A Step by Step Guide to Installing RAM... Continued

Now that we have the right RAM memory and have discussed handling it, it is time to grab your philips screwdriver and take off the cover of your computer's case. Not all computers open in the same way, so it is important to pay attention to how you expose your computer's motherboard. Some PCs, like Dell for example, often open without the need for a screwdriver at all. However your computer opens, you will need to gain access to the main circuit board inside the computer, commonly called the motherboard.

On the motherboard you will find anywhere between two and four memory slots. These slots will be notched to only allow your memory to be installed in a particular direction. Pay attention to the notching of the slot in relation to the notching in your DIMM memory module, as attempting to force memory into a slot in the wrong direction can cause damage to your motherboard, the memory module, or both.

If you have an open memory slot on your motherboard you can simply insert a new memory module to increase your computer's total RAM memory. If you do not have an open slot, then you will need to remove an existing stick of memory to install the new, larger one. You will notice that each each memory module is secured in place by two white clips. These white clips are textured so you can pivot them away from the memory module. When you do so, you will notice the memory module raise up out of the RAM memory slot on the motherboard. Once both white clips have been released, you can safely remove your old RAM module. Keep it in a safe place (preferable the packaging that your new RAM memory module came in) in case you need it at a later time.

 

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