Tech Tips: Here’s How to Upgrade Your PC’s RAM

Avatar
RAM

When your PC starts acting slow and takes you more time than normal to achieve a simple task, then you probably need to upgrade its random access memory (RAM).

The RAM is the memory of your PC that helps it run software. Your computer stores temporary information within the memory cells and refers to the information as it runs applications. If the information isn’t in your computer’s RAM because it’s a temporary store of information, the computer will refer to it’s hard drive because the hard drive is a more permanent store of information.

If your computer doesn’t have enough RAM to run multiple applications or even heavy programs, your PC may begin to function very slow.

How to Check Your PC’s RAM Usage

Checking your RAM usage on your PC will help you determine the size of memory you are expending at a particle time. You can check your laptop’s memory usage in Windows Task Manager. Simply right click the Task bar and select Task Manager in Windows 7 or hit the Windows key and type “task manager” in the search field.

Then, in Task Manager’s performance tab, see how much memory is being used out of the total available. You’ll also see how many physical memory slots are in use and, thus, how many are available for you to upgrade.

Upgrade Options

RAMs come in various sizes and so depending on what you do with your PC, it is advisable to always go for more RAM.  Upgrading from a 4 GB to 8 GB of RAM is likely to make a huge difference. Moving from 8 GB to 16 GB still shows some good gains in performance, but not as much as moving from 4 GB to beyond 16 GB.

To upgrade to a higher RAM, you will need to know the following: How many memory slots your PC has, the number of RAM modules already installed, if there are free slots, and the maximum RAM your version of Windows and motherboard can handle. These information will guide you in upgrading your PC RAM for optimum performance.

Here’s How to Upgrade Your PC’s RAM

The first step to take in upgrading your PC is to turn off your computer and unplug the power adapter. Then open the panel on the bottom of your PC covering the memory banks. Depending on your system, you might have to unscrew the whole back of the laptop to access the memory and other components. This process is different if you are working with a desktop.

Then check if all of your memory slots are already filled. If it is, you’ll need to pull out the existing RAM in order to replace them. But if it is not, simply insert the new memory module into the empty slot. To remove the memory module, push apart the clips holding it in place. The memory module should pop up at an angle then hold the memory module by its edges without touching the gold connectors at the bottom and lift it out.

The next step is for you to insert the new RAM modules into the empty slots at a 45-degree angle, with the edges facing down. Use even pressure with your fingers at the top of the modules to push them into place. When you hear a click just know it has fallen into place. Firmly push the module back until it is installed flat and level. With the clips holding it securely, power up your laptop and check the System Information window or Task Manager to verify that your new memory has been added.


Technext Newsletter

Get the best of Africa’s daily tech to your inbox – first thing every morning.
Join the community now!

Register for Technext Coinference 2023, the Largest blockchain and DeFi Gathering in Africa.

Technext Newsletter

Get the best of Africa’s daily tech to your inbox – first thing every morning.
Join the community now!