In view of the ever-increasing requirements of modern software, the user may, over time, reconsider the issue of the self-sufficiency of the configuration of his computer. As a rule, the owner of computer technology performs the initial upgrade by ramping up the RAM of his PC. However, in addition to hardware upgrades (installing additional memory slats), the user can use a number of software tools that allow optimizing the operation of the mentioned system component. That, in the end, will also have a positive impact on resolving the issue: "How to add RAM to the computer?" If you want to achieve the best result in the process of increasing the speed and productivity of your OS, but do not quite understand how to do it and how much it can cost you - devote a few minutes of your time to reading this article. You will receive invaluable benefits from a free review of the material provided.
So, the top solutions "How to add RAM to your computer?"
The illuminated methods (software and hardware RAM upgrade) can be used as independent from each other or correctly interacting solutions. It is worth noting that an integrated approach is preferable to a simple action - to add one or more memory modules to a free slot . A little later you will find out why.
Method number 1: I bought, installed, launched
For stable operation, the Windows 7 operating system requires 1.5 GB of RAM. Typically, an acquired office configuration PC has two gigabytes of RAM. For demanding programs (video editors or computer games), this amount is not always enough. Therefore, the user has a need to expand the capabilities of RAM. However, before implementing such a hardware upgrade scenario, one must ask the question: “Can I add RAM?”. Since in the case when you are using the 32-bit version of Windows, adding two or more gigabytes to the current amount of RAM may simply not be used by the system due to some restrictions that the BIOS firmware initiates. Another unpleasant moment for the user may be the mismatch of the purchased memory module with the typical connector on the motherboard. In other words, before going to the store, you need to know exactly what type of RAM is supported by your PC or laptop, as well as the technical characteristics of the installed memory.
Forced valuable retreat
A question that is often of interest to a beginner: how much does RAM cost, needs some concretization. Since in modern computer technology there are several types of RAM: DDR, DDR2, DDR3, which, in turn, have a number of significant differences. Depending on the manufacturer and the technical characteristics of the memory, the cost of the product also varies. However, on the example of the Kingston brand, one can cite a certain price comparison of different types of produced RAM.
- 1 GB DDR2 - about 1400 rubles., And 2 GB will cost 2300 rubles;
- DDR3 for 2 GB - will cost 1900 rubles., 4 GB - 3100 rubles. But the RAM 8 GB of this type - 6400 rubles;
- 2 GB SODIMM DDR2 - 1800 rubles;
- 4 GB SODIMM DDR3 - 3200 rubles, and for 8 GB the price will be around 6200 rubles.
In addition to information about how much RAM costs, another will also be useful to you: each type of "RAM" in its segment is divided according to technical characteristics: nominal volume, bus bandwidth and data transfer rate (frequency), which are indicators of performance and the effectiveness of a particular modification. In portable computers, a similar memory is used, but somewhat modified and labeled SODIMM, which, in fact, is a kind of RAM. By the way, the cost of the "minimized" memory is practically no different from the stationary version. True, some modifications of laptop memory modules still bypass the “desktop counterparts” in price.
Setting an additional memory bar
To equip your desktop computer with another RAM module, follow the guidelines below. As a result, you will get a practical answer to the question: "How to add RAM to the computer."
one). Disconnect the system unit from the electrical power source.
2). As a rule, access to the internal components of the PC is carried out by unscrewing the group of fixing screws that hold the protective cover of the device. Important: in the case of the autopsy "sistemnik" more rely on a guarantee you do not have to. Since opening the cover will inevitably damage service seals.
3). Install a new memory module in the appropriate slot. If there are several, pay attention to the marking of the connectors. Usually the correct sequence is indicated as a numerical value. In some cases, a special order of installed memory strips is provided. Interacting connectors (for example, 2 modules from one manufacturer and 2 from another) are painted in two different colors.
Congratulations first! Now you know how to add RAM correctly.
Portable solution
Despite the design features of the laptop, the process of installing RAM is, in general, a fairly simple action ... if you have a thin Phillips screwdriver.
one). Turn off the laptop and turn off the power.
2). Remove the battery from the device.
3). Carefully consider the back of the laptop - a corrugated or inscribed designation, in the form of "DIMM" or "MEMORY" - this is the place where RAM is located.
four). Remove the screws that secure the cover and gently pry the edge of the protective cover.
5). Install the optional memory module and close the cover.
Method number 2: flash drive as an additional amount of RAM
Using the Windows 7 operating system and its Ready Boost add-on as an example, we will consider a hybrid option for expanding RAM resources.
Insert the USB flash drive into the USB port of the PC or laptop. Format the removable media partition. Place the marker on the flash drive’s shortcut and, holding the right mouse button, call up the context menu from which select “Properties”. In the window that opens, go to the Ready Boost tab. Activate the checkbox “Use this device”, then click “Apply” and “OK”.
As you can see, the question: “How to add RAM to the computer?” Can be resolved using this method.
Method number 3: RAM optimization
By installing the dedicated Memory Booster utility on your PC, you can significantly speed up your OS. Despite its small size and compact interface, the program easily copes with the optimization of RAM, freeing up the RAM of the PC, which is reserved by various software. This greatly improves system performance. The utility always runs in the background. So the control over particularly "gluttonous" programs will be organized very vigilant.
Method number 4: OS virtual memory
This method is exclusively a software tool for ramping up RAM. The standard Windows tool provides for the expansion of operational resources by allocating a certain disk space to the needs of temporary files. Do not confuse the clipboard and the special virtual OS partition, these are fundamentally different services. The swap file generated by the OS has a value equal to the amount of installed RAM. When there is not enough physical memory, the system uses virtual amounts of RAM. The paging file size can be either reduced or increased. It all depends on the needs of the user.
Practical solution
one). Open the Start menu.
2). Hold the marker on the "Computer" section and right-click on the context list, from which go to the "Properties" item.
3). While in the System service window, activate the “Advanced Settings” link on the left.
four). In the "Performance" block, click on the button.
5). Going to the "Options" window, click on the "Advanced" tab.
If you activate the “Change” button, you will be given the opportunity to make changes to the default settings.
Finally
“So how much RAM can you add?” You ask. The value is strictly predetermined. It all depends on the functionality of your motherboard. The BIOS version also has a big impact on the “hardware perception” of a PC. Finally, a 64-bit operating system removes almost all restrictions on the amount of RAM. But, as you know, in such a situation, the OS is a secondary authority. Therefore, only the BIOS determines whether the motherboard is able to "accept" the desired amounts of RAM. So before you upgrade your PC, study the technical passport of the computer.