How to add RAM to your computer? How much is the RAM?
In view of the ever-increasing demands of the modernsoftware user over time can reconsider the question of the self-sufficiency of the configuration of your computer. Typically, the owner of the computer produces a primary upgrade by increasing the RAM of his PC. At the same time, in addition to the hardware upgrade (installing additional memory slots), the user can also use a number of software tools that allow optimizing the operation of the mentioned system component. What, in the end, will also have a positive effect on the solution of the question: "How to add RAM to the computer?". If you want to achieve the best result in the process of improving the speed and performance of your OS, but do not quite understand how to do this and how much you can do it - devote a few minutes of your time reading this article. You will receive an invaluable benefit from free acquaintance with the material provided.
So, top solutions "How to add RAM to your computer?"
Lighted methods (software and hardwareupgrade RAM) can be used as independent of each other or correctly interacting solutions. It is worth noting that an integrated approach is preferable to a simple action - add one or more memory modules to the free slot. Somewhat later you'll find out why.
Method number 1: I bought, installed, launched
For stable operation of the operating systemWindows 7 requires 1.5 GB of RAM. As a rule, the purchased PC of the office configuration has two gigabytes of RAM. For resource-intensive programs (video editors or computer games) this amount is not always enough. Consequently, the user has a need to expand the capabilities of RAM. However, before implementing such a scenario of hardware upgrade, you need to ask the question: "Can I add RAM?". Since when you are using a 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 limitations that the BIOS BIOS initiates. Another unpleasant moment for the user may be a discrepancy between the purchased memory module and a typical motherboard connector. In other words, before going to the store you need to know exactly what kind of RAM is supported by your PC or laptop, as well as the technical characteristics of the installed memory.
Forced valuable retreat
Often the question of interest to a beginner: how much RAM costs, needs some concretization. As 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 memory, the cost of the product also varies. However, the example of the Kingston brand can lead to a price comparison of different types of produced RAM.
- DDR2 at 1 GB - about 1400 rubles. And 2 GB will cost 2300 rubles;
- DDR3 on 2 GB - will cost 1900 rubles., 4 GB - 3100 rubles. But the operating memory of 8 GB of this type - 6400 rubles;
- SODIMM DDR2 at 2 GB - 1800 rubles;
- SODIMM DDR3 at 4 GB - 3200 rubles. And at 8 GB, the price will be around 6200 rubles.
In addition to information on how much it costsRAM, you will also benefit from another: each type of "RAM" in its segment is divided according to technical characteristics: nominal volume, bus bandwidth and data rate (frequency), which are indicators of the performance and efficiency of a modification. In laptop computers, similar memory is used, but somewhat modified and having the designation SODIMM, which, in fact, is a kind of RAM. By the way, the cost of "minimized" memory practically does not differ in any way from a stationary version. However, some modifications of laptop memory modules still bypass "desktop colleagues" in price.
Installing an additional memory strip
To equip a desktop computer with one moremodule RAM, follow the recommendations below. As a result, you get a practical answer to the question: "How to add RAM to your computer".
1). Disconnect the system unit from the electrical power source.
2). Typically, access to the internal components of the PC is done by unscrewing a group of fixing screws that hold the protective cover of the device. Important: in case of self-disclosure of the "systemist", you will not have to rely on the guarantee for more. Since when opening the cover you will inevitably damage the service seals.
3). Install the 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 digital value. In some cases, a special order is established for the installed memory slots. Interconnecting connectors (for example, 2 modules of the same manufacturer and 2 others) are painted in two different colors.
Accept your first congratulations! Now you know how to properly add RAM.
Portable solution
Despite the design features of the laptop, the process of installing RAM, in general, quite simple action ... if you have a thin cross-head screwdriver.
1). Turn off the laptop and disconnect it.
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 the RAM is located.
4). Unscrew the retaining cover screws and gently pry out 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
On the example of the Windows 7 operating system and its functional add-on Ready Boost, a hybrid version of the RAM resource extension will be considered.
Insert the USB flash drive into the USB port of the PC or laptop. Format the removable media partition. Hover the marker on the stick label and, holding the right mouse button, bring up the context menu, from which select "Properties". In the window that opens, go to the Ready Boost tab. Activate the "Use this device" check box, then click "Apply" and "OK."
As you can see, the question: "How to add RAM to a computer?" Can be resolved by this method.
Method # 3: Optimizing RAM
Installing on your PC a special utility called MemoryBooster, you will greatly accelerate the work of its OS. Despite the small size and compact interface, the program easily copes with the optimization of RAM, freeing up the PC memory reserved by various software. This significantly increases system performance. The utility always works in the background. So the control over especially "gluttonous" programs will be organized very vigilant.
Method # 4: Virtual OS memory
This method is purely softwaremeans of increasing RAM. A standard Windows-based tool provides for the expansion of operational resources by allocating a certain disk space for the needs of temporary files. Do not confuse the clipboard and a special virtual OS partition, these are fundamentally different services. The paging file generated by the OS has a value equal to the amount of installed RAM. When physical memory is not enough, the system uses virtual volumes of RAM. The size of the paging file can be either reduced or increased. It all depends on the needs of the user.
Practical solution
1). Open the Start menu.
2). Hold the marker on the "Computer" section and right-click the context list, from which go to "Properties".
3). While in the "System" service window, activate the link "Additional parameters" on the left.
4). In the "Performance" block, click on the button.
5). Go 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 settings specified by default.
Finally
"So how much RAM can I add?", - you ask. The meaning 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 the PC. Finally, the 64-bit operating system removes almost all the limitations on the amount of RAM. But, as you know, in this situation, the OS is a secondary authority. Therefore, only the BIOS determines whether the motherboard is able to "accept" the desired amount of RAM. So before you upgrade your PC, check the computer's technical data sheet.