Computer Hardware:
     • Tools, Static & Cleaning
     • Form Factor
     • PC Case & Fans
     • Motherboard
     • Processor (CPU)
     • Power Supply Unit
     • RAM
     • Hard Drive
     • Solid State Drive
     • Optical Drive
     • Floppy Disk Drive
     • Graphics Card
     • Sound Card
     • Network Card
     • Computer Monitor
     • Keyboard & Mouse
     • Laptop / Netbook
     • Building a Computer
     • Overclocking

Operating System & Backup:
     • Operating System
     • Drivers
     • Windows Tools
     • User Accounts
     • Backup
     • Windows 10

Internet & Network:
     • Internet
     • Wi-fi or Cable
     • Improve Broadband Speed
     • Network Computers

Computer Peripherals:
     • Printer
     • Scanner
     • External Hard Drive
     • USB Flash Drive

Computer Security:
     • Anti-virus
     • Anti-Spyware
     • Phishing
     • Firewall

Common PC Problems:
     • Slow Computer
     • Hardware Failure
     • Software Failure
     • Printing Problems

Miscellaneous:
     • Windows Shortcuts
     • Glossary of Terms
     • HTML Colour Picker
     • Number Base Converter

Memory Upgrade


Replacing memory modules on a desktop computer is quite straightforward although it can be a little tricky to get at when the motherboard is inside the computer case and the memory slots are obscured by wires etc.

Upgrading your desktop computer RAM
1. Back-up all of your important files.

2. Make sure the power is unplugged and press the power button to drain any power from the computer.

3. Follow anti-static procedures, and have your tools at hand. Open the computer case.

4. Locate the memory slots.

5. If you need to remove the old memory modules then press on both the plastic catches at each end of the memory slot which will release the memory module so that you can remove it.


Aligning DDR memory module notch with memory slot notch.


6. Before inserting a new memory module you should make sure the plastic catches at each end of the memory slot are open.

7. Obtain your new memory module, making sure you hold it without touching the contacts, and align the memory module with the memory slot so that the notch in the module corresponds with the notch in the memory slot as it will only fit one way round.

Memory module in memory slot held by plastic catches.


8. Gently push the memory module down into the memory slot and the plastic catches at either end of the memory slot should clip over the ends of the memory module holding it in place.

9. Repeat for all the memory modules that need to be installed.

Once the memory has been upgraded and the computer is back together and powered up then you need to check that the computer can see this new RAM. There are various ways to do this including:

1. When you boot the computer then you may see the POST (Power On Self Test) which will count up the RAM.

2. If you enter the CMOS set-up page by pressing a certain key during the initial start-up sequence (sometimes ‘DEL’, ‘ESC’, F1, or F2 etc). It should display the amount of RAM installed on your computer.

3. In Windows you can click 'Start' > Right-click on 'Computer' and select 'Properties' which should display your RAM.

4. Download the small CPU-Z utility at www.cpuid.com which should display your RAM in detail.

5. A useful utility for testing your RAM is called Memtest86 and is found at www.memtest86.com which will test your memory thoroughly.

If after installing your new memory modules the computer refuses to boot or it doesn't display the correct amount of memory then you may need to re-seat all of the memory modules as well as checking that you have not loosened any connectors, or wires that are near to the memory slots. You can also try removing one memory module at a time and then rebooting to locate the problem. Remember to add memory modules in pairs if the computer uses dual-channel memory and do not use more memory than the motherboard can handle.

To install memory modules on your Laptop computer then have a look at the Laptop page.