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How to add RAM to a computer: methods and recommendations. Installing RAM

Computer technology is the most important assistant in solving many problems, so it is not surprising that users put forward increased requirements. However, it should be understood that over time, installed devices become obsolete and computer equipment needs to be upgraded. Quite often, PC owners are in dire need of just increasing random access memory, therefore, for many, it is important to know how to increase the RAM on a computer.

Many new programs require more computer power

Increasing the RAM can significantly improve the performance of your computer, so users interested in performance are looking for ways to make such actions easy. One of these ways is to buy additional modules RAM and install them on the computer. To make a competent increase in RAM, it is useful to first familiarize yourself with the information on how to add RAM to your computer, as well as take a number of preparatory steps.

Determining the type of RAM

Computers were purchased from different times, so their configuration may differ significantly. It is strictly forbidden to purchase RAM at random, because the currently existing types of RAM, which include DDR 1, DDR 2, DDR 3, are incompatible with each other, and their sharing on one computer can lead to a sad result.

In addition, the motherboard can also only support certain type RAM, so trying to add the wrong type of RAM, the user is able to disable the entire motherboard.

Also, performance is also ensured due to the fact that the system does not need a long search for the files required for execution on the entire hard disk space, since all the necessary files are concentrated on external media.

Having chosen this particular method, which allows to increase the speed of the PC, the user must purchase a USB flash drive with the necessary parameters, otherwise all attempts will simply be unsuccessful. The flash drive must have at least 256 MB free space, the write speed should correspond to 1.75 Mbps, and read - 2.5 Mbps.

After all the important tools are available to the user, you can proceed to the process that allows you to increase the amount of cache and speed up PC performance.

After inserting the USB flash drive into the USB connector, you should wait for it to fully load, then right-click to bring up the context menu. Next, go to "Properties", then to "ReadyBoost". On this tab, you should check the box, confirming the desire to use the ReadyBoost technology, you should also manually set the indicator of the desired cache volume. It remains to click "OK" and wait for the process to complete.

A PC user must remember that a flash drive to which ReadyBoost technology has been applied cannot be simply removed from the computer. To remove the USB drive, you must first disable the previously running ReadyBoost technology.

Another way to increase the RAM on your computer is overclocking. Using this method, the user manages to overclock the RAM. To achieve this, the user must make changes to the BIOS settings, increasing the frequency and voltage.

With the right changes, computer performance can be increased by almost 10%. However, it is important to understand that if mistakes are made, the user risks damaging not only the RAM, but also other components. In this regard, most experienced users recommend that in order to carry out high-quality and competent overclocking, increase performance, give the computer to a real professional who is familiar with overclocking techniques to the smallest detail.

If, nevertheless, the user wants to improve the computer himselfby overclocking, you should first go into the BIOS. To do this, at the time of loading the OS, you should press one of the buttons: "Delete", "F2" or "F8".

After a successful entry into the BIOS has been made, the user must go to Video Ram or Shared Memory. There, on the DRAM Read Timing line, you should reduce the number of cycles (timings). Experts say that the lower the timings, the better the PC performance. However, excessive reduction can lead to negative consequences.

Finally, in order for the settings to be successfully saved, you should press "F10", after which the computer will restart and the changes will take effect.

So, wanting to add RAM to a computer, the user must have not only good reasons for this, but also the necessary components, as well as study the available recommendations and master the necessary skills. Improve your technical capabilities commendable, but under a categorical ban is the experimental "amateur" in the complete absence of the necessary knowledge.

How to add RAM?

A few decades ago, computers ran on 1-2 MB of RAM. Today, progress has gone so far that, sometimes, 2-4 GB of RAM is not enough for normal operation computer.

If you do not want to experience inconvenience when watching videos, working with graphic editors, passing computer game, you need to know how to add RAM.

When to add RAM

On modern computers For normal operation, it is better to use at least 4 GB of RAM. Just 2 GB of memory will significantly limit the performance of the computer. This amount of memory will not allow you to watch videos comfortably, it will be almost impossible to play, and graphics programs will slow down a lot. Also, surfing the Internet will be difficult due to the long time it takes to download sites and files to your hard drive.

The best solution would be to put 16-24 GB of RAM on the computer, which will allow you to forget about the memory upgrade for a long time.

How to add RAM to a computer

Before you buy a new stick of memory, you need to find out if you can add RAM to your computer. This can be done by opening the computer block and examining how many free slots there are.

If there is at least one slot, then you can safely buy desired bar memory and add. If there is no free slot, then you can change one of the bars to a new one with a large volume.

The replacement of the strap should be done in the following sequence:

Turn off and disconnect the computer by unplugging the power cord from the wall outlet or the unit itself.
Pull out one of the strips, in place of which put a new one. If you want to install in a free slot, then simply insert a new memory bar into place.
Make sure the strap fits snugly into the socket. After that, assemble the computer unit, plug it into the network and run it.
Check that there are new GB of RAM in the properties of the computer.

It should also be remembered that on 32-bit systems it shows a maximum of 3 GB of memory. If you installed more than 3 GB, then you should reinstall Windows by installing a 64-bit OS.

How to add RAM to a laptop

In a laptop, the amount of memory can be viewed in the same way as on a computer.

To add or replace a memory bar, you must:

Power off the laptop.
Remove battery.
Open the back cover or the cover where the symbol depicting RAM is drawn. To do this, unscrew the fixing screw and carefully remove the cover.
Insert a new bar or replace the old one.
We collect everything again the same way as it was.
We start the laptop and check for new GB of RAM.

You can also read more about this in our article.

The speed of a personal computer directly depends on the correct selection and installation of all its components. Correct selection and installing RAM memory modules is the most important guarantee for the success of your PC.

In a previous article, we looked at . In this article, we will consider the issues of selecting RAM and its competent layout in connectors. motherboard.

Basic recommendations applicable to all types and types of memory:
- it is best to install DIMMs with the same amount of memory;
– the modules must match in operating frequency (Mhz), if you install modules with different operating frequencies, then in the end they will all operate at the frequency of the slowest memory;
– for installed RAM boards, it is desirable to combine timings, memory latencies (delays);
- it is better to select modules from one manufacturer and one model.

Some enthusiasts try to buy modules from the same batch, but this, it seems to me, is already a perversion!

These tips are not strictly followed, situations are different. If memory modules differ from each other in terms of manufacturer, volume and frequency of operation, this does not mean at all that they will not work. In this case, there are no special memory layout secrets - just installing them is enough.

Also, there are no special features when installing obsolete types of memory such as SDRAM (there is one rule - the more, the better).

But in modern computers, motherboards support special modes of operation of RAM. It is in these modes that the speed of RAM memory will be most efficient. Therefore, to achieve the best performance, you should consider the operating modes of the DIMMs and their correct installation. Let's look at the most common operating modes of RAM today.

Operating modes of RAM

SINGLE CHANELL MODE

single mode (single channel or asymmetric mode) - this mode is implemented when only one memory module is installed in the system or all DIMMs differ from each other in terms of memory size, frequency of operation, or manufacturer. It does not matter in which slots and which memory to install. All memory will run at the speed of the slowest memory installed.

If there is only one module, then it can be installed in any memory slot:

Two or three different memory modules can also be installed in any configuration:

This mode is more of a necessity when you already have RAM, and increasing the amount of memory and saving money is in the first place, rather than achieving the best PC performance. If you're just buying a computer, of course, it's best to avoid this kind of memory setup.

DUAL CHANELL MODE

dual mode (two-channel or symmetrical mode) - the same amount of RAM is installed in each DIMM channel. Modules are selected according to the frequency of operation. On motherboards, the DIMM slots for each channel are color coded. Next to them is the name of the connector, and sometimes the channel number. The purpose of the connectors and their location by channel must be indicated in the motherboard manual. The total amount of memory is equal to the total amount of all installed modules. Each channel is served by its own memory controller. System performance increases by 5-10%.

dual mode can be implemented using two, three or four DIMMs.

If two identical RAM memory modules are used, then they should be connected to the same-named connectors (in the same color) from different channels. For example, install one module in a slot 0 channel A, and the second - in the connector 0 channel B:

That is, to enable the mode dual channel(interleaved mode) should be performed the necessary conditions:
– the same configuration of DIMM modules is installed on each memory channel;
– memory is inserted into symmetrical channel connectors ( slot 0 or slot 1) .

Three memory modules are installed in a similar way - the total amount of memory in each channel is equal to each other (memory in the channel A equal in volume in the channel B):

And for four modules the same condition is fulfilled. Two parallel dual modes work here, as it were:

TRIPLE CHANELL MODE

(three-channel mode) - the same amount of RAM is installed in each of the three DIMM channels. Modules are selected by speed and volume. Motherboards that support 3-channel memory typically have 6 memory slots (two for each channel). Sometimes there are motherboards with four connectors - two connectors make up one channel, the other two are connected to the second and third channel, respectively.

With six or three sockets, installation is as easy as with dual-channel mode. With four memory slots installed, three of which can work in , memory should be installed in these slots.

(flexible mode) - allows you to increase the performance of RAM, when installing two modules of different sizes, but the same frequency of operation. As in the dual-channel mode, memory boards are installed in the same-named connectors of different channels. For example, if there are two memory sticks with a capacity of 512Mb and 1Gb, then one of them should be installed in the slot 0 channel A, and the second - in the slot 0 channel B:

In this case, the 512MB module will work in dual mode with the 512Mb memory of the second module, and the remaining 512MB from the 1GB module will work in single-channel mode.

That, in principle, is all the recommendations for combining RAM. Of course, there may be more layout options, it all depends on the amount of RAM, motherboard model and your financial capabilities. Also on sale were motherboards with support quad mode memory work - this will give you the maximum performance of your computer!

Computer RAM is designed to temporarily store data that must be processed by the central processor. RAM modules are small boards with chips and a set of contacts soldered to them and are installed in the corresponding slots on the motherboard. We will talk about how to do this in today's article.

When installing or replacing RAM yourself, you need to focus on a few nuances. This is the type or standard of the slats, the multi-channel mode of operation, and directly during installation - the types of locks and the location of the keys. Next, we will analyze in more detail all the working moments and show the process itself in practice.

Standards

Before installing the brackets, you need to make sure that they match the standard of the available connectors. If DDR4 connectors are soldered on the motherboard, then the modules must be of the same type. You can find out what memory your motherboard supports by visiting the manufacturer's website or by reading the complete instructions.

Multi-channel mode

By multichannel mode, we mean an increase in memory bandwidth due to parallel work multiple modules. Consumer computers most often have two channels enabled, server platforms or "enthusiast" motherboards have four-channel controllers, and newer processors and chips can already work with six channels. As you might guess, the throughput increases in proportion to the number of channels.

In most cases, we use conventional desktop platforms that can work in dual-channel mode. In order to enable it, you must install an even number of modules with the same frequency and volume. True, in some cases, off-suit bars are launched in a “two-channel”, but this rarely happens.

If there are only two connectors for “RAM” on the motherboard, then there is no need to invent and find out anything here. Just install two slats, filling all the available slots. If there are more places, for example, four, then the modules should be installed according to certain scheme. Channels are usually marked with multi-colored connectors, which helps the user to make the right choice.

For example, you have two slats, and the motherboard has four slots - two black and two blue. In order to enable dual-channel mode, you must install them in slots of the same color.

Some manufacturers do not separate slots by color. In this case, you will have to refer to the user manual. Usually it says that the slots must be interleaved, that is, insert modules into the first and third, or into the second and fourth.

Armed with the information above and the required number of strips, you can proceed with the installation.

Mounting modules

After installing the memory, the computer can be assembled, turned on and used.

Installation in a laptop

Before replacing the memory in a laptop, it must be disassembled. How to do this, read the article available at the link below.

Laptops use SODIMM sticks, which differ from desktop sizes. You can read about the possibility of using dual-channel mode in the instructions or on the manufacturer's website.

Examination

In order to make sure that we did everything correctly, you can use special software such as. You need to run the program and go to the tab "Memory" or, in the English version, "Memory". Here we will see in what mode the strips work (Dual - dual-channel), the total amount of installed RAM and its frequency.

On the tab "SPD" You can get information about each module separately.

Conclusion

As you can see, there is nothing complicated in installing RAM in a computer. It is only important to pay attention to the type of modules, keys and what slots they need to be included in.

If your computer is slow, freezes when working with programs and games, then one of best ways to increase its performance at the hardware level is to install additional RAM on the computer. In this article, we'll take a step-by-step the process of adding, replacing RAM.

Choose the right type of RAM

Before heading to the store to buy a new memory module, you need to find out what type of RAM your motherboard supports. Exist the following types RAM: DDR, DDR2, DDR3, DDR3 L and new type DDR 4. They vary in size, so if you buy the wrong type, it just won't fit in the connector. There is also a division into form factors DIMM (for desktop computers) and SODIMM (for laptops).

To find out the type, you need to carefully read the instructions for the motherboard. If you already have memory modules installed, take one of them and look for the options sticker. It indicates the type of DDR. Most modern computers have DDR2 and DDR3 memory types.

We count the number of slots for RAM on the motherboard

The number of slots for memory modules on the motherboard can be 2,4,6,8, and even more on the server motherboard. Most motherboards have 2-4 connectors. You should pay attention to the maximum amount of memory that your motherboard supports.

Choose a manufacturer

There are many companies involved in the development of RAM. The results of their work differ both in price and quality. We do not recommend purchasing memory from little-known manufacturers.

IN last years The following manufacturers are popular:

Buying RAM

When going shopping at a specialized computer store, you need to know exactly what kind of RAM you need and whether it will be compatible with.

Preparing to install RAM

Step 1. Power off your computer. Disconnect all cables and cords connected to the back of the case.

(Monitor, mouse, keyboard, etc.)

Step 2. Remove the side cover from the case. Position the computer case so that it is convenient to work with it. It will be most convenient if you put it on its side. Free access to the motherboard by gently pushing away the nearby wires.

Step 3. Next, you should get rid of static charges. They can damage the installed components on the motherboard. To do this, simply touch the case or battery with your hand. For some, this advice may seem ridiculous, someone will say that nothing will happen and nothing will be damaged, but as they say, "God saves the safe," so it's better to play it safe and listen to advice.

Step 4. Locate the RAM slots on the motherboard. In modern boards, manufacturers make 2, 4 connectors. These are identical in size and parallel to each other connectors. How they look, you can see in the photo below.

Step 5. If you are replacing the old memory with a new one, you will need to remove the old module. Gently press on the two white end tabs. The module will release and can be easily removed.

Step 6. Take a new memory bar, while trying not to touch the chips and contacts located on it.

Some enthusiasts try to buy modules from the same batch, but this, it seems to me, is already a perversion!

Also, there are no special features when installing obsolete types of memory such as SDRAM (there is one rule - the more, the better).

Operating modes of RAM

SINGLE CHANELL MODE

If there is only one module, then it can be installed in any memory slot:

Two or three different memory modules can also be installed in any configuration:

DUAL CHANELL MODE

dual mode can be implemented using two, three or four DIMMs.

That is, to enable the mode dual channel(interleaved mode), the following conditions must be met:
– the same configuration of DIMM modules is installed on each memory channel;
– memory is inserted into symmetrical channel connectors ( slot 0 or slot 1) .

Three memory modules are installed in a similar way - the total amount of memory in each channel is equal to each other (memory in the channel A equal in volume in the channel B):

And for four modules the same condition is fulfilled. Two parallel dual modes work here, as it were:

TRIPLE CHANELL MODE

With six or three sockets, installation is as easy as with dual-channel mode. With four memory slots installed, three of which can work in, memory should be installed in these slots.

In this case, the 512MB module will work in dual mode with the 512Mb memory of the second module, and the remaining 512MB from the 1GB module will work in single-channel mode.

Every computer owner has thought about improving it at least once. Some simply change the processor, someone assembles and re-solders the insides of the video card. But it's easier and cheaper to overclock your computer. You can do this by adding RAM to it. This method does not require special training or the expensive purchase of a new processor. But before doing practical solution 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, or RAM - Random Access Memory) is the place where all temporary data about the operation of programs is stored. Externally, the OP looks like several different microcircuits connected to the motherboard. It serves as a temporary storage for all running programs and has a high speed of writing and reading data.

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

Modern RAMs are very voluminous and allow the computer to work on many tasks at the same time. But their diversity is confusing for an inexperienced user. Let's try to figure out how to add RAM to the computer.

When should you change RAM?

Sometimes the user may not notice the signals with which the technique notifies that more forces are needed to perform routine tasks. Understanding the signals is not difficult, 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 animations do not load;
you need to install powerful games or complex programs, as well as run several processes at the same time.

So, is it possible to add RAM to a computer and in what ways can this be done?

Ways to increase RAM

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

plank replacement method;
installing Ready Boost;
OP swap.

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 sticks to replace the old ones. But not everything is so smooth here: new brackets must be compatible with the motherboard, as well as the 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 the clip-locks;
install new RAM;
fix the bar with holders.

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

Hardware Method: Ready Boost System

The essence of the computer improvement method 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 by Microsoft Windows 7 and above can convert a USB stick into a data processing device.

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

Please note that when using this method, you must not disconnect the USB drive in any case. The technique of adding RAM can be used as an auxiliary, but as a permanent solution, you should choose something else.

Programmatic method: swap file

Is it possible to add RAM to a computer using only the reserves of the PC? Newer versions of Windows have a very useful virtual memory feature. In fact, 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. This method will benefit owners of older processors.

When it becomes clear how to add a bar of RAM to a computer, connect a USB flash drive correctly or use computer resources, 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 sticks.

Choosing RAM: compatibility with the motherboard

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

When choosing RAM, you need to consider that the 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 slats.

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

Technical parameters of RAM sticks

After determining compatibility, you should deal with 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”.

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

Type of memory

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

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

It's best not to mess with DDR1 and DDR2 memory as they are outdated. There is also newest look- 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 strips for laptops (SO-DIMM) and for PCs (DIMM). The first ones are usually small size and with fewer contacts. When choosing RAM for a PC or laptop, these characteristics must be supported by the motherboard.

Frequency and data rate

Frequency and transmission speed are among the most important characteristics which should be given Special attention when choosing. Frequency refers to the amount of information a computer can transmit in a given amount of time. Accordingly, the higher the indicator, the better the performance of the PC. When choosing, it is also necessary to build on the parameters that the motherboard supports.

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 when installing one bar or with modules of different sizes, this is the slowest mode.
Dual Mode - symmetrical, the connectors are installed with the same volume strips, and the speed is doubled compared to the first mode.
Triple Mode - uses three channels, while all of them are set to the same volume of straps, however, the data transfer rate of triple mode may be weaker than that of Dual.
Flex Mode - flexible mode, involves the installation of two bars with different volumes, but the same frequency.

The most popular option at the moment remains the symmetrical mode (Dual Mode).

Memory

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

When choosing a RAM bar, 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 Internet surfing, then 2 GB will be enough. Work that involves the use of heavy programs, such as graphic editors or video processing software, then 4 GB of RAM is enough. For modern games 8 GB of RAM is sufficient. Today, RAM has been developed with a large amount, 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 delay time between the command sent to the device and its execution. The parameter also determines how fast the computer or laptop will work. If the values are large, respectively, and the delay is significant, the RAM processes information slowly. The shorter the delay time, the faster the data processing speed.

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

Manufacturer

There are many manufacturers of PC components. The best option is to be guided by the brand's reputation, performance and reliability reviews, as well as the company's pricing policy. Currently popular are:

Corsair.
Adata.
Kingston.
GOODRAM.
kingmax.
Transcend.

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

Important information

Before the beginning self installation all recommendations and instructions must be read. 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 board and OS support for it. Otherwise, the computer may malfunction.
Even if a new RAM is needed for powerful games, you should not spend the entire allocated budget on sticks larger than 8 GB.
Care must be taken when working on the installation, as the strips 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 total memory usage. In this case, even installing brackets 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?" solved quickly and without additional complications.

Must be made in a case that already contains a fixed motherboard and processor. Approximately like this:

In the photo above, we see that the installation of RAM has already been made. We also see the installed motherboard and power supply (indicated by an arrow).

In general, I must say that if you buy a computer case, then, often, it is already supplied with a power supply and you do not need to install it. But in any case, the very procedure for installing the power supply into the case is not difficult: you place it in the place provided for this (usually in the upper part of the system unit)

and securely fix with four bolts on the rear wall.

But we will not connect the power yet, but we will install the RAM. The figure below shows how this is done correctly. It is necessary to snap off the plastic clips on the connector itself, carefully insert the RAM module into the groove passing through the entire connector and gently but firmly press it perpendicularly downwards until it clicks and fits snugly into the slot. At the same time, the plastic clips on the sides will snap into place by themselves, if not, look carefully to see if the memory bar "sat down" as it should and snap them in yourself.

At the same time, the fan power connector "CPU_FAN" is circled in the figure.

Attention! You can damage your computer! Installing RAM is a responsible matter. Therefore, before installing it, it is very important to make sure that you install the correct connector in the connector. physical characteristics the memory module to it. For example, in the DDR2 slot is installed only DDR2 memory, in DDR3 slots - only DDR3 form factor memory, etc.

If, when installing RAM, it turned out that there was no sticker (special sticker) on it indicating the type of memory, you can navigate purely visually by the “key”. The key is a special “cut” that divides it into several parts in the lower part of the RAM. Accordingly, each memory slot has a protrusion in the same place. The “key” serves as a kind of protection against attempts to install RAM in a slot that is not suitable for it in terms of physical characteristics.

Here's what the two "keys" look like on the memory of the old standard "SD-RAM":

If you do not want to open the computer, then to determine what type of RAM is installed in it, I recommend using the "CPU-Z" program. It will show what type of components your PC consists of. We analyzed the work of this wonderful utility.

So, we install all the memory chips at our disposal in the slots. On modern motherboards, they are often labeled different colors(two yellow slots, two red). This is a mode of dual-channel use of RAM, which slightly increases its throughput.

To activate the dual-channel (or three-channel) mode of RAM, we need to insert the strips in pairs: we install two identical modules in the connectors of the same color, then we install the other two in the connectors of a different color. To get the maximum effect, the memory chips must be really the same by its frequency performance, timings, "CAS" and "RAS" delays. Ideally, they should be purchased from a computer company at the same time :)

Moreover, the colors of the memory slots do not alternate, for example: yellow, red, yellow, red.

We snap all the clamps, check that all memory modules “sit” in the slots evenly (memory chips should be on the same line of height, without raised edges and “protruding” latches).

This is how the RAM is installed in such a simple way. As you can see, everything is simple :)

Users are often faced with the need to increase the amount of RAM when they start working with more demanding software. "RAM" is responsible for the temporary storage of data needed to perform current operations processor. For more information on how to increase RAM, read our material.

The amount of RAM depends on how easily and quickly the PC copes with the work, performing several tasks at the same time.

The very procedure for increasing the amount of RAM may consist in buying additional memory cards or replacing the already installed memory with a larger module. In this case, it is necessary to take into account such characteristics of RAM as type, clock frequency, and, of course, volume.

If you decide to install an additional stick of RAM into your PC, then it must be of the same type as the one already installed in the device. In addition, you need to find out the maximum amount of RAM that the motherboard, processor supports.

The characteristics of the RAM installed in the PC can be found using special utilities, for example, Speccy or Everest. Or you can remove the cover of your PC case and conduct a visual inspection. If only the name of the module is indicated on the RAM bar, then using a web search you can find all the characteristics you need.

RAM type

Memory differs in speed: newer types of modules can transfer more bits of information on each memory bus cycle. Also, different memory strips differ visually.

Modern PCs use DDR2, DDR3, and DDR4 RAM cards. The SDRAM and DDR types are older. And when upgrading a PC, it makes sense not to buy an additional bar of the same type, but to replace it with a newer technology module. In terms of money, it will turn out to be slightly more expensive, but in terms of speed, the plus will be tangible.

DDR3 differs from DDR2, for example, in lower power consumption. There is also a variety of DDR3L modules - with even lower power consumption.

Read your motherboard specifications carefully before purchasing a new RAM module, as the memory different type cannot be inserted into the same slot on the motherboard due to different place plank cutouts. So, SDRAM memory (unlike DDR modules) has two cutouts on the bottom side of the board and 144 pins. The DDR module has 184 pins, DDR2 and DDR3 have 240, DDR4 have 288 pins, but the key is shifted from the center to the left edge of the bar.

Frequency and timing

Frequency. This parameter determines the amount of data that can be transferred in a certain time, that is, the speed of the RAM. The frequency of RAM must match that supported by the computer's motherboard.

Another important parameter that characterizes the speed of RAM is timing. The delay in processing the operation inside the RAM depends on its value. In the name of the RAM module, it can be written as a sequence of four numbers, for example, 9-9-9-24, or CL and a numerical value - the first digit of the 4-digit sequence, that is, CL9 for the above example. The minimum timing value is good for gaming PCs and video editing computers. For a PC designed for simple everyday tasks, timing has little effect on performance.

RAM slots

Before you buy an additional RAM card, you need to find out if there is a place to put it. And it depends on the number of free slots in your computer.

If your motherboard supports dual channel RAM, you can use this to improve performance. To do this, you need to purchase not one larger board, but two modules of the same characteristics. Often manufacturers offer such kits (Kit). For example, not one 8 GB module, but two 4 GB modules operating in dual-channel mode. For users who increase memory to play games or use "heavy" programs, this is important. If the PC is used to work with office software, a browser and to watch movies, then you can safely buy one bar of RAM.

Also today there are motherboards and RAM kits (Kits) that support three-channel operation.

What else to consider

When choosing RAM, you also need to take into account the operating system on which you will work, since the minimum amount of required RAM also depends on it. Windows 7 and 8 32-bit require at least 1 GB of RAM, Windows 7 and 8 64-bit require at least 2 GB (GB), and Windows XP require at least 64 MB of RAM.

What else should you pay attention to when choosing RAM? To the manufacturer. It is better to choose boards from trusted manufacturers, for example, Corsair, Kingston, Hynix, Transcend, OCZ.

Installation

After you have opened the case of a turned off PC and removed the static charge from your hands, you can begin installing an additional or new RAM module / modules.

1. If you bought a set of two cards for dual-channel operation, check the motherboard specifications for which slots you need to install them.

2. If you are completely changing the RAM, then remove the old memory board: open the slot latches on both sides of the module, carefully holding the module by the side edges, remove it from the slot.

3. Insert the new module into the desired slot, aligning the notch on the memory card with the slot's tab. Gently press down on the module until the clips secure it.

4. Repeat last operation with other memory modules, if any.

5. Close the PC case.

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