One of the easiest ways to boost performance for any PC is to add memory to the system. But before you go to get that memory upgrade, be sure to gather information about your computer to make sure you get the right memory for your system. You need to know what type of memory the computer uses, the memory module sizes and what already exists in the system.
How Much Memory Do I Have?
Find out how much memory is in the computer by examining the BIOS or operating system. For Windows, this can be located by opening up the System properties from the Control Panel. Also open up the case while the computer is off and find the memory slots to determine how many modules are installed and how many slots are available. If all the slots are full, you may have to take some out to put more in if the system can use larger modules.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 5 minutes
Here's How:
1. Go to your desktop.
2. Place your mouse cursor over the 'My Computer' Icon.
3. Click on your right mouse button.
4. From the pop up menu, select 'Properties'.
5. The 'General Tab' should already be selected for you.
6. Towards the bottom and to the right, you will see the manufacturor of the computer, the brand of processor, then the amount of RAM installed.
7. Click the cancel button.
Tips:
- If this information isn't listed on the 'General Tab' then click on the Performance Tab. The amount of RAM is also listed there.
- If you don't know your processor speed (ie. 400 mghz) you will have to refer to your owner's manual.
How Much Do I Need?
Check your operating system and application programs. Often they will have a printed "Minimum" and "Recommended" memory listing somewhere on the package or in the manual. Find the highest number out of "Recommended" section and try to plan on having this much or more memory by the time you are done upgrading your system memory.
What Type Does Your Computer Support?
Look through the manuals that came with your computer or motherboard. Included in the documentation should be a listing of the specifications for the memory supported. This is important because it will list exactly the type, size and number of memory modules that are supported. Many retailers and memory manufacturers have this information in case you can't find the manuals.
How Many Modules Should I Buy?
In general it is best to try and buy as few modules as possible for the amount of memory that you wish to install. This will increase the potential for future upgrades on the system. Thus, if you have 3 memory slots, one of which has a 512MB module in it, it would be better to buy another 512MB module to get to 1GB of total memory than to purchase two 256MB modules.
