What happens if you change the RAM. Replacement and installation of RAM. Replacing or adding RAM consists of several stages.

Every computer owner has thought about improving it at least once. Some just change the processor, someone collects and re-solders the insides of the video card. But it is easier and cheaper to overclock your computer. This can be done by adding random access memory... This method does not require special training or expensive purchase of a new processor. But before engaging in a practical solution to the question: "How to add RAM to a computer?", You need to figure out what it is and why you need it.

What is RAM

Random access memory (RAM, RAM - Random Access Memory) is the place where all temporary data about the operation of programs is stored. Outwardly, the OP looks like several different microcircuits connected to the motherboard. She serves as a temporary repository for everyone running programs and has a high speed of writing and reading data.

It should be noted that RAM is fundamentally different from memory. hard disk... RAM stores information only as long as the device is connected to the power supply, that is, as soon as the computer is turned off, all data in the random access memory will be erased. Hard disk memory stores information until you delete it.

Modern RAM is very large and allows the computer to work on many tasks at the same time. But their variety is confusing for an inexperienced user. Let's try to figure out how to add RAM to your computer.

When should you change your RAM?

Sometimes the user may not notice the signals with which the technician notifies that more energy is needed to perform routine tasks. It is not difficult to understand the signals, the main ones are in plain sight. You need to change the RAM if:

the computer starts to slow down when executing programs;
a laptop or desktop computer takes a long time to load and load programs;
sites with “heavy” graphics and animation are not loaded;
you need to install powerful games or complex programs, as well as run multiple processes at the same time.

So, is it possible to add RAM to a computer and what are the ways to do it?

Ways to increase RAM

It is quite possible to improve the performance of equipment, today there are three main ways to increase the RAM on a computer:

method of replacing strips;
Installing Ready Boost;
pumping OP.

All methods are simple, even a beginner can handle them. However, each technique has its own nuances.

Hardware method: RAM modules

The first method involves installing new RAM strips to replace the old ones. But not everything is so smooth here: the new planks must be compatible with motherboard as well as a processor. To use this method, you need to know exactly how to properly add RAM to your computer.

In general, the procedure is as follows:

remove the cover of the system unit;
find the RAM mounts on the motherboard;
remove the old memory by pulling back the clips;
install new RAM;
fix the bar with the holders.

This method allows you to quickly and efficiently add PC performance.

Hardware Method: Ready Boost System

The essence of the method for improving the computer is that a USB flash drive is connected to the USB input, which will serve as a source of additional RAM. Special software(Ready Boost) supported Microsoft Windows 7 and above, can turn a USB stick into a data processing device.

Many users, when using the option with the Ready Boost installation, immediately try to take a larger drive, but this is not always necessary. The program can use external drives up to 256 GB on 64-bit Windows and only 4 GB on other operating systems that support this function.

Please note that when using this method, you must never disconnect the USB drive. The RAM addition technique can be used as an auxiliary, but it is worth choosing something else as a permanent solution.

Programmatic method: swap file

Is it possible to add RAM to a computer using only the PC's reserves? New Windows versions have a very useful virtual memory feature. Essentially, these are hard drive reserves. To install, you need to go to the address: My Computer - Properties - Advanced Settings, then select the "Performance" option, and in it - "Additional memory". Then you should set the required values. Owners of older processors will benefit from this method.

When it becomes clear how to add a strap of RAM to the computer, correctly connect a USB flash drive or use the resources of the computer, you can immediately start work, but first you should evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each method. So, the most effective option would be to replace the RAM strips.

Choosing RAM: motherboard compatibility

Before purchasing new trims, you should check the need to increase the performance of your computer. Technology can slow down for various reasons, so first you need to check your laptop or PC for viruses that eat up a huge share of the RAM. Next, you can clean your computer of unnecessary or obsolete files and remove those programs from startup that are not needed when you turn on your PC. If everything is in order, you can choose a suitable device.

When choosing RAM, you must take into account that motherboard must be compatible with it. In order to understand which temporary memory strips are suitable for the motherboard, you need:

go to the motherboard manufacturer's website;
select the desired model;
open instructions;
see a list of recommended options for OP planks.

After the list of models has been studied, you can start choosing a suitable option for other parameters.

Technical parameters of RAM strips

After determining compatibility, you should understand the necessary technical parameters... If you delve into all the subtleties and follow the recommendations, it will not be difficult to solve the question "how to install / add RAM".

The type and amount of memory, design features of the bar, operating modes, frequency and speed of operation, as well as some other parameters should be considered in detail.

Memory type

Today there are several types of RAM: some are outdated, others are so innovative that not all PCs support them.

The best-selling (and therefore popular) ones are DDR3, or Double-Data-Rate, the third version. Unlike the previous generation, DDR3 heats up less and has up to 2400 megahertz clock frequencies. Same given type RAM is distinguished by its low power consumption.

Better not to mess with DDR1 and DDR2 memory, as they are outdated. There is also the newest type - DDR4, which has a clock speed of up to 4200 megahertz. This type of memory may not be supported by all devices.

Form Factor

The form factor is the design features of the RAM strip. There are slots for laptops (SO-DIMM) and for PCs (DIMM). The former are usually small in size and with fewer contacts. When choosing RAM for a PC or laptop, these characteristics must be supported by the motherboard.

Frequency and baud rate

Frequency and transmission rate are some of the most important characteristics that should be given special consideration when choosing. Frequency refers to the amount of information that a computer can transmit in a given time. Accordingly, the higher the indicator, the better the performance of the PC. When choosing, you also need to build on those parameters that are supported by the motherboard.

Memory modes

The new RAM has special modes that affect the data transfer rate. There are four main types of modes:

Single Channel Mode - works with the installation of one bar or with modules of different volumes, this is the slowest mode.
Dual Mode is symmetrical, the connectors are equipped with strips of the same volume, and the speed is doubled in comparison with the first mode.
Triple Mode - uses three channels, while all have the same bars in volume, however, the data transfer rate of triple mode may turn out to be weaker than that of Dual.
Flex Mode is a flexible mode, which implies the installation of two bars with different volumes, but the same frequency.

The most popular option at the moment is the symmetric mode (Dual Mode).

Memory

Performance is as important as data transfer rate and remains one of the key today. The bottom line is extremely simple: the larger the memory, the faster the PC runs.

When choosing a RAM strip, you should take into account the goals and tasks for which the PC will be used in the future. If this is work with office programs and surfing the internet, then 2 Gigabytes will be enough. Work involving the use of heavy software, such as graphic editors or software for video processing, then 4 GB of RAM is enough. For modern games, 8 GB of RAM is sufficient. Today, RAM has been developed with a large volume, but there are very few programs that allow you to use the full potential of such devices, and they are rarely used by average users.

Timings

Timing is the time delay between a command sent to the device and its execution. The parameter also depends on how fast the computer or laptop will work. If the values are large, respectively, and the delay is significant, the RAM processes the information slowly. The shorter the latency, the higher the processing speed.

There is also a direct relationship between the timing and frequency of the OP. The higher the frequency, the greater the timings. Therefore, when choosing, you should be guided by the golden mean.

Manufacturer

There are many PC component manufacturers. The best option is to be guided by brand reputation, performance and reliability reviews, and company pricing. On the this moment popular are:

Corsair.
Adata.
Kingston.
GOODRAM.
Kingmax.
Transcend.

Each produce provides a wide the lineup, so it is not difficult to choose a RAM according to the required characteristics, quality and price. And in general, figuring out how to add RAM to a computer and how to choose RAM sticks is not difficult. It is enough to superficially navigate the technical characteristics.

Important information

Before starting self-installation, you must study all the recommendations and instructions. The following tips are common:

When replacing the strips, be sure to insert them all the way and fix them with clips. Otherwise, the computer will not see the components and will not boot.
When choosing a RAM frequency, consider the support for it by the board and the OS. Otherwise, the computer may malfunction.
Even if the new RAM is necessary for powerful games, you shouldn't spend the entire allocated budget on boards larger than 8 GB.
Care must be taken when working on the installation, as the planks are fragile. It is also imperative to disconnect the PC from the network and carry out all manipulations exclusively with dry hands.
The system may have a limit on full memory usage. In this case, even installing the slats will not help add RAM. It turns out the following: the user added RAM, the computer does not use it. Also, one of the reasons is often a limitation in the motherboard. In addition, the board may not be installed correctly.

If everything is done correctly, then the question is: "How to add RAM to the computer?" will be solved quickly and without additional difficulties.

The services of our company include installation and replacing the RAM in the computer, well, first, let's figure out what it is for?

Random access memory (RAM) plays a very important role in providing fast work your his personal computer... With a small amount of RAM, you may feel the complexity in the work of many applications, such as: photo editors, modern games, etc. Since the software and entertainment applications released now require quite decent resource costs.

When replacing RAM, you can face such difficulties as choosing the right type of memory and the amount of required RAM. Accordingly, with insufficient theoretical knowledge of the user, replacement of RAM must be done by a professional. To do this, it is best to contact specialists who can competently replace it and give a guarantee for the work performed, and, accordingly, will be able to tell you about the features and benefits of the installed memory modules.

Random access memory serves as a temporary storage of programs and data with which the processor is currently working. It is volatile, which means that when the power is turned off, the data in the RAM is not saved. The most common manufacturers of this type of memory are: Kingston, PQI, Kingmax, Hynix Asus, etc.

When planning the installation of additional RAM modules, you need to pay attention to such characteristics as:

Volume

Now the most common memory modules with a volume of 1, 2, 4 Gigabytes. When replacing RAM, or when buying a PC, you need to accurately determine the purpose of the purpose of your computer. To work in an office, 1 GB is enough for a computer. For modern games, at least 3 GB. And of course you need to know that for normal operation of Windows 7 you need at least 1 GB of memory.

Replacing the RAM memory in the computer based on the type

Currently, DDR (Double Data Rate) RAM is used. Currently, the most popular and productive is its DDR3 variant. And also, this variety is still quite inexpensive today. This type of RAM has less power consumption than previous versions, and heat dissipation, and, accordingly, higher clock frequencies. There is also the bus frequency of the processor and RAM, you should be aware that these are different things. RAM bar different types, for example DDR1 or DDR3, respectively, cannot be connected to the same slot. Due to this problem, before replace computer memory When buying RAM, you need to know which type is right for your motherboard.

RAM clock speed

To be ideal, the operating frequency of the RAM module must match the frequency that the motherboard supports for it. Well, or to put it another way, if you install a DDR3-1600 type module in a slot that only supports 1333 MHz, the most you get is work like DDR3-1333. Clock frequency indicated in the marking of the chip itself: DDR3-1333. Where 1333 means the RAM is running at 1333 MHz. And, accordingly, the higher the frequency, the higher the memory performance.

Timings

These are the time delays of the signal. Most often, no one indicates them in the price lists. Do not be alarmed when you meet such a designation 5-5-5-18 or 5-7-7-24, etc. This is timing. It is measured in processor cycles. It will be enough for the user to know that the smaller these values are, the better. Sometimes it will be better to take more RAM than pay extra for small timings.

Memory performance

It depends on whether you are using one stick of RAM or several. The features of the dual-channel mode show that, for example, 2 x 1 GB will work a little faster than one 2 GB bar. In dual channel mode, the 1st and 3rd modules of the motherboard work in parallel with the 2nd and 4th. And it is not advisable to use simultaneously, for example, 1 GB, 2 GB and 4 GB. From this, performance will also be reduced.

Based on this, it is clear that correct installation random access memory is not an easy task. And our specialists will be able to help you by diagnosing your personal computer, and based on the data received, together with you, we will decide on an additional installation of RAM or its replacement. We have a fairly large selection of memory from the world's leading manufacturers at low prices.

What is computer RAM?

To begin with, let's briefly figure out what computer RAM is, and what it is intended for. In general, RAM (random access memory) is the temporary memory of a computer that stores data that the processor accesses directly for processing. Since it is temporary, data is stored on it only when the computer is running - when it is turned off, it is reset to zero.

The amount of RAM in a computer is now measured in Gigabytes, respectively, the more we have, the more information the processor can process in parallel. And, accordingly, the computer works faster, if we consider that the processor itself must be with the appropriate characteristics.

How do I determine the size of the RAM?

This can be done in several ways:

The first method is simple: of course, if you bought a computer in a store, then this information is in the documentation. We look at what is written there and believe in it.
With the computer turned on, look at the properties of "My Computer" (for Windows). To do this, click on the desktop (or in the Start panel) on the "My Computer" icon with the right mouse button, and select "properties" from the menu. The size of the RAM itself will be shown in the main window (see photo).

You can also look at the RAM strips themselves when the computer is off. Each of them has an information sticker indicating the size of the RAM and its type (DDR1, DDR2, DDR3 ...)

Next, let's decide what type of RAM we need. It is advisable to look in the documentation for the motherboard, but if there is none, go to the manufacturer's website (or simply drive in a model in the search) of our motherboard and look for its characteristics. It indicates the type of RAM that we need. As a last resort, before buying a new RAM strip, we take the old one and present it to the seller.

Replacing the computer's RAM with your own hands.

If we nevertheless came to the question of replacing or adding the computer's RAM with our own hands, then we need to make several preparations:

- prepare a screwdriver in order to open the case of the system unit (for each it opens in its own way)

- prepare a RAM bar, which we will add or change

Preparations are made, we can start replacing the RAM with our own hands:

We open system unit after disconnecting it from the network. I unscrew just one bolt:

We find the slots where the RAM is installed (there can be from 2 to 4)

We remove the old ram bar by clicking on the latches along the edges, as shown in the figure.

We insert a new bar in its place with the latches apart until it stops (the latches should close).

We close the case of the system unit, connect it to the network and admire the result.

Today we present to your attention a video of installing RAM on a board

I hope this article has been useful to you when replacing the RAM with your own hands. Also see all the tips for working with a computer from the site.

Photo gallery (10 photos):

There are many active users among us who can work in several programs at once, while simultaneously opening a lot of applications. In such cases, they may have a question about replacing the RAM. Sometimes a situation may arise when you realize that the time has come to modernize your obsolete computer, or different errors appear more and more often. The moment comes when you need to start fighting with them. But how to deal with them correctly? This question began to be asked more and more often, let's try to figure it out together. The easiest way is to change the RAM. This process itself, if you approach it correctly, will not take much of your time. In this article, you can learn how to correctly identify and install memory in your laptop or PC.

How to select RAM for a computer

What characteristics should the RAM have? How to pick it up? Let's take a look at everything in turn. First you need to find out what type your motherboard supports. No matter how desperately you try, you will not be able to install a module intended for one memory in a slot created for another. Today, among the most common, two types of memory can be distinguished:

Which one should you choose? Much depends on the purpose of your PC. If you carry out your work in really heavy programs, as well as play powerful games, then you will need a type of DDR 3 memory, since its frequency ranges from 800 MHz to 1600. If you find your computer used for ordinary purposes , you should choose DDR 2, the frequency of which ranges from 400 to 800 MHz.

How much RAM do you need to take? I will say the following: to achieve a normal PC environment and high performance, you need at least 2 Gb. Therefore, to ensure normal flight conditions for your computer, stop at volumes of 4 Gb and above, so that later you will not be disappointed.

Replacing RAM on a computer

Well, let's go directly to the process of replacing the operative. First you need to completely disconnect the computer from external power. Then you need to take the system unit in your hands and carefully disassemble it (do not forget that almost all the fasteners are held by the bolts that we need in order to put everything back together), basically you only need to remove the left cover, after which you will get access to RAM. In general, this lesson is very short-lived, at the end of which we will be able to observe the following picture:

Now we need to take out our old memory, for this you need to slightly press on the latches that are located on the sides.

The main thing is not to touch the microcircuits, even if they are quite cute and you are eager to touch them. All microcircuits are fragile, so you may not even notice how the module will be damaged even by a small static voltage.

Pressing on the latches, you will see how the board rises slightly from the slots, after which you can pull it out. It should be pulled out by holding the edges. After that, take out the new board from the package, and then match the slots on the motherboard and on the memory card according to the instructions.

If they do not fit each other, we can conclude that you purchased the wrong memory card and you will have to return it to the store or exchange it for the one you need. After a characteristic click, the latches on the edge of the board should snap into place (you should not be too zealous in this matter, so as not to break the motherboard).

Then you need to double-check if all the boards are correctly fixed in the slots. If everything is installed correctly, you need to check again after turning on the computer in its properties the value of the active memory (it should increase).

How to choose RAM for a laptop

In laptops, the RAM must be replaced, so the developers have created a special compartment for it, located on the laptop case for quick replacement. It is worth immediately warning those who are going to change the RAM in a laptop on their own and, once in a store, say with confidence: Give me the coolest memory for a laptop. First, you should understand that there are at least four types of operating systems for laptops:

It is also important to keep in mind that from year to year minimum requirements to the hardware increases, if a year ago the amount of your RAM could seem huge, but now it will not be able to satisfy all your user requests.

Be sure to find out what type of RAM is right for your laptop. If the sticker with technical characteristics the laptop is still intact, then you can find on it the type of supported RAM. If the sticker cannot be found, then you can determine this information using special programs... The data obtained should be sufficient to acquire the required memory.

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Sooner or later the moment will come when we decide to upgrade our computer. And, as a rule, modernization begins with increasing the memory sticks, because it can seriously increase the speed of the computer. This is what we want to talk about in this article - replacing the RAM of a computer or laptop with our own hands. You can replace the RAM in two ways: do it yourself or contact service center... Let's say right away: replacing the RAM is a very simple operation, it makes no sense to pay for the services of a master if your hands grow out of the right place. To replace the RAM module, you do not need any special tools, one screwdriver is enough - to disassemble the system unit.

Replace RAM

So let's start by replacing the computer. To begin with, you must know exactly what kind of memory you have installed in the machine, more precisely, the type of connector. To do this, it is enough to read the guarantee, usually the full name of the bar, including its type, is indicated there. Most likely it will be DDR3. After that, go to the store and buy the RAM of the amount you need. Keep in mind, not all types of RAM can be upgraded, anything older than DDR3 is usually not upgradeable.

Having a new memory bar in our hands, we proceed as follows. First you need to disassemble the system unit in order to get to the place we need. To do this, arm yourself with a screwdriver, remove the side cover of the block and put it on the table. Since you have opened the system unit, we recommend that you clean it. Then we find the memory strip that is installed on the motherboard. It is easy to find it, because you bought exactly the same one and are holding it in your hands. Are there empty connectors of the same type nearby? There should be, because the computer provides a place for installing at least two strips of RAM. Found it?

We proceed with caution. We spread the latches (if any) to the sides and insert the RAM into the slot, watch the slots, they should match the key, it is located on the motherboard connector itself. The bar is made so that it cannot be inserted incorrectly, however, everything can be ...

The RAM should fit easily into the slot. If the computer is five years old, then the contacts may partially stick together due to old age, in which case you will have to slightly press the bar, insert it "shaking". If, in this case, the model is not inserted, and the motherboard is already beginning to sag from your efforts, it is better to contact the service, so that there a specialist spread the jammed connector with a screwdriver. Want to try it yourself? The craftsmen do this: a screwdriver with a thin end is inserted into the connector, we slightly move it, trying to separate the stuck together contacts. We repeat this action several times along the entire connector. No extra effort, otherwise you will break the slot. As a rule, it is enough to walk with a screwdriver once so that the RAM can easily snap into place.

Have you inserted a memory stick? Now we fix it with the slot clamps (those that we threw from the very beginning). That's it, you can carefully turn on the computer and make sure that it sees the installed component. After that, turn it off from the outlet, put the side cover in place, screw all the bolts if any) and work with the new RAM.

How do I replace or add RAM to my laptop? The best place is to use the Internet and find out exactly where it is located. Modern laptops have a cover that hides easy access to the RAM, but older machines "hide" it under the keyboard, which is much more difficult. Find a photo or video instruction and follow the directions from it. In a nutshell: the old RAM is held in place by tendrils with clamps, they just need to be spread apart. Do not be alarmed if the bar literally jumps out of the slot - this happens to almost everyone. We set the new bar carefully, making sure that all contacts fit snugly. Now we lightly press the bar until the latches click - that's it, it's installed. We turn on the machine and check the performance.

Note that, despite the simplicity, replacing RAM is a rather painstaking task, it is advisable to see at least once how someone else does it, before trying to do the same on your own.