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If you’ve noticed your computer is not as fast as you’d like it to be and you’ve already eliminated the possibilities of it being viruses or spyware, chances are that you might need more RAM.

What is RAM?

RAM stands for Random Access Memory. When you start a program or application the first thing your computer does is load it into RAM to be run. Imagine your RAM as being a garage for working on cars. The bigger the garage the more cars you can work on at one time and the same applies for your RAM — the more memory you have, the more programs you can work on and the bigger they can be.

How do I install RAM?

The first step to adding more memory is to find out what type of RAM your motherboard supports. Most computers come with User Manuals that list these details. If you do not have the manual or it doesn’t specify then you will have to find out what type of motherboard you have and contact it’s manufacturer. You’ll want to know what type of RAM, how many RAM slots you have, and how much RAM each slot can handle.

Once you’ve figured this out and purchased the appropriate amount of memory, simply snap them into the RAM slots on the motherboard. Line the indention on the memory stick with the line inside the memory slot on the motherboard to prevent from putting the memory in backwards. THIS IS A SIMPLE PROCESS THAT, IF DONE INCORRECTLY, CAN SERIOUSLY DAMAGE YOUR PC. Take your time, don’t force anything and always be sure to wear an anti-static bracelet any time your work on the circuits like a motherboard!

Once the memory is installed and secured properly by clamping the brackets on the ends of each memory slot, you’re done! No software installation necessary. Simply boot up your PC and check Windows to make sure it recognizes the new RAM (below, How do I tell how much RAM I have?).

How do I find my RAM/memory slots?

Memory slots are fairly easy to locate. At least one slot will have a RAM stick already in it if not both of them. They are long slots sitting parallel to each other and are usually white. Below are a few pictures of memory slots:

How do I tell how much RAM I have?

In Windows, click your Start button (bottom left) and click Settings, then Control Panel (in XP, click Start, then Control Panel). Then click the System icon and look at the info listed on the General tab. The amount of RAM in your system will be listed in megabytes MB). In Windows Vista, click Start and type “System” and choose “System” from the list that appears in the menu above and look for the amount of “Memory (RAM)” in the box that appears.

Where should I buy RAM?

We recommend Tiger Direct.