When your Laptop is running slow you probably would have thought a new one is needed. If you have tried out our tutorial “Why is my computer running slow” and still have problems then a RAM upgrade might be in order. Luckily the steps to achieve a laptop memory upgrade are quite easy.
Selecting the Correct Memory Modules
The first requirement for a Laptop memory upgrade is to locate the type of memory your laptop can use. There are many providers wanting to sell you memory which makes the process quite easy as they all aim to provide you with details of the exact modules that you need to purchase. Run a search on google in the following format…
Make Model number memory upgrade
So I would enter “Compaq Presario V4335EA memory upgrade” and run a search on google to get these results.
Clicking on the first result I see the following information on the page…
Standard Memory: 512 MB (removable)
Max Memory: 2.0 GB
Number of Sockets: 2 sockets
This tells me that my current Compaq Laptop should have 512MB of removable memory and that there is a limit of 2GB and 2 sockets to connect the memory to. Based on this information I can then select how much memory I want making sure I match up a set if using 2 modules. I would personally go for the memory listed below for my laptop and order 2 of them as I have 2 sockets and a capacity of up to 2GB.
1GB Module 1GB 200 Pin DDR2-533 PC2-4200 128×64 CL4 1.8V SODIMM (Lifetime Warranty)
Laptop Memory Upgrade
Assuming the memory has arrived you will need to switch off your laptop, remove the power cord and I also recommend removing the battery to make sure there is no power at all capable of running through the device. Flip the laptop over to reveal the underside and look for screws and symbols that look like it could identify where the memory slots are kept (see image to the left).
Unscrew the screws which identify the memory slot and carefully take off the panel to reveal the current memory. If your laptop has removable memory and you want to replace it you will find the sides of the module are held in with a metal clip on each side. These push outwards, away from the memory and once unclipped the memory module should slide out (be careful). The clips can be seen in the image just below. Now that your laptop is empty of memory it is time to insert the 1 or 2 new modules.
It is recommended that you follow instructions such as using an anti-static band to eliminate static electricity from damaging the memory modules. Slide the memory modules in to the memory slots by aligning up the notch on the RAM with the notch on the memory slot and push in to place securing the metal clips back in to place. Repeat for the second module then re attach the back panel securing with the screws you previously removed.
Now the laptop is fastened back together the memory upgrade should be complete. Re attach the battery and switch it on. If all boots up successfully then all should be ok. If the laptop beeps at you then switch it off again and check that the memory is inserted correctly. Once booted successfully the easiest way to check that the upgrade completed is to right click on My Computer, click Properties and take a look at how much RAM is installed in the laptop. If it mentions 2GB and you installed 2GB then you are good to go.
If you are unsure what type of memory modules you need to perform an upgrade then post a comment below with the make and model number of your laptop and I will provide the details needed. Likewise, if you run into any problems then feel free to post your questions below and I’ll answer as soon as possible.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
the worst part for me was choosing the right memory for my asus laptop, worth checking laptop spec at manufacturer’s site
{ 1 trackback }