How to Add Memory to a Laptop: 9 Steps
Laptops come with a set amount of random-access memory (RAM), which is used to quickly access information in order to help programs run more quickly and efficiently – or to help them run, period. The amount of RAM a laptop comes with can run all of the pre-installed apps and programs, but may need to be increased in order to properly run certain other apps and programs.
Some people to go to a professional laptop repair service in order to boost the memory of their device. However, others have the technical expertise and can do this task on their own. Either way, it’s helpful to learn more about the process. Here are the nine tutorial steps on how to add memory to a laptop:
1. Get a laptop with high RAM capacities
The first step on how to boost your laptop’s memory is to make sure your model comes with a high RAM capacity. If you know what kind of RAM you require for your own purposes, it is probably easiest to invest in a computer that can meet your needs. Cheaper computers will have fewer add-ons and features, including – most likely – less RAM. Make sure to keep an eye on that when purchasing your laptop.
2. Check your memory
The first thing to do is to find out how much memory your laptop already has. This can be done by heading to the system section found in the control panel. The memory will be labelled as “Installed RAM” and will give both the total amount of RAM that the laptop has in gigabytes (GB) and the amount that is still available for use.
Some laptops will not allow you to increase the RAM because the memory is actually soldered directly onto the motherboard, or the bottom is closed. There may also be limitations on the total amount of RAM a laptop can handle. There are tools that can help to tell you how many slots your laptop has, what the max memory it can handle is, and if it is possible to upgrade the memory. You can also try discussing it with a professional.
3. Buy RAM
Once you know how much RAM your laptop can handle and what you’re looking for, it’s time to purchase the memory. This can be done at pretty much any decent retailer selling computers and computer parts. You may also be able to find the part online, which may give you more information, advice, and reviews about the item you’re buying.
4. Shut it down
It is important that the computer’s power is off while you are working on the memory. Shut down the computer and ensure that it is not plugged into a power source. It is even a good idea to remove the battery completely to ensure there will be no power being provided to the laptop.
5. Open up
Now it’s time to open up the bottom of the computer. To gain access to the memory compartment, you will have to remove a small panel at the bottom of the computer, which is usually held in place by one or two screws. You’ll probably need to get the right screwdriver to help you open up the compartment. Sometimes you have to remove the entire bottom of the laptop to gain access to this compartment.
6. Discharge static electricity
You are a pretty good conductor – a conductor of static electricity that is. If you touch certain parts of your computer with static charge, it could actually damage those components. So before you touch any other parts of your laptop, just touch something metal, like the chassis of the computer, if applicable. As well, work on a hard surface, and don’t rub your feet on carpeted flooring before or while working on the computer.
7. Remove old memory
If there is already RAM in the slots, you will have to remove them before inserting the new ones. Otherwise, there will be nothing to remove and you can just skip to the next step. To remove, there are two clips that hold the memory in place. Push those clips apart to release the module and pull it out. When pulling out the module, be very careful to only touch the edges, and not the gold connectors at the bottom.
8. Insert the new memory
Again, being careful to only touch the edges of the new memory module, and not the gold connectors, slide the module into the open slot at a 45 degree angle, gold connector side first with the connectors facing down. It should slide in fairly easily with even pressure being applied until the module clicks into place.
9. Put it back together
After the new memory is inserted, put the panel back onto the back of the laptop and screw it back into place. Then, re-install the battery and start the computer up. Let it work its magic. Once everything is put back together, it is the computer’s turn to work. The computer will automatically utilize and recognize the new memory, without any complicated installation or compatibility requirements.
Want to check your work? Head back into the control panel and check the settings. You should see that the number of RAM has changed from before, and your new available memory will be displayed there.