Memory is very delicate. You MUST have the right tools to properly install them without possible destroying your new memory modules. Be sure you are wearing an anti-static strap and that you are grounded before you install your new memory.  Below are some basic steps to installing your memory.

• Turn off the computer and touch the metal casing.
• Locate the RAM modules. Find the empty one you plan to replace, or remove the RAM module you will replace.
• Line up the notches of the new RAM module and apply firm pressure to attach.
• Once you’re sure the RAM module is snugly in place, close the latch at either end. If you have clips, they should snap back in place.
• Reconnect all the cables, but leave the casing open until you’re sure everything is working right.
• Turn your computer back on. If the machine starts to beep, the memory is either incompatible or not in correctly, says Ritchie. If you’ve installed everything correctly, the system will detect the new RAM.
• Check the system properties to see how much RAM you now have. If you replaced a 128 MB with a 512 MB module, then you should have 512 minus 128 equals 384 MB more RAM than you did previously. If you added the RAM but didn’t remove any, then you’d have 512 MB more RAM.
• Try one of your programs that wasn’t working up to speed. If it still isn’t working, unplug everything again and get back into the computer to check that the RAM modules are firmly secured.

Quick facts about RAM

RAM = random access memory. According to Microsoft Encarta, it is the primary working memory in a computer used for the temporary storage of programs and data and in which the data can be accessed directly and modified.

Presented By: CompTech Care
CompTech Care Online Store

Before you make any purchases, you need to know how much memory you have and what type of memory to buy.

To see how much RAM is in your PC, go to the Start menu, click Settings, and then click Control Panel. Click System and then select the General tab. At the bottom of the page you should see the amount of RAM.

Most games will specify the minimum amount of RAM you need to install them and play. For example, Harry Potter And The Prisoner of Azkaban requires 256 MB. This amount includes RAM that the computer needs to do its own background work as well as to run the game.

Dale Mater, tech lead at CompTech Care, says that the amount of RAM you need depends on the operating system you are using. For Windows 98, 128 MB to 256 MB is more than enough. For Windows XP, “the more the merrier—depending on what you’re doing,” he says. If you’re just surfing the Internet and writing letters, you need 256 MB to 512 MB. “If you’re gaming, the sky’s the limit,” says Dale, which means anywhere from 512 MB to 1 GB RAM (extreme gamers will need even more). You’ll also need more RAM if you’re using a lot of applications at the same time, such as desktop publishing and video rendering.

RAM modules can be purchased in 128 MB, 256 MB, and 512 MB sizes. To get more memory for your computer, call the experts at CompTech Care at 800-332-6153 or visit our website.

Presented by: CompTech Care
CompTech Care Online Store