How To Install 2 Different Types Of Ram

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Has your reckoner started to feel a fiddling sluggish? Maybe it'due south not performing similar information technology used to, or tin't keep up with the latest software? Upgrading your RAM (Random Access Memory) is one of the simplest and cheapest ways to quickly amend your computer'south performance. But how to do yous install the RAM you lot've purchased for your upgrade? This wikiHow teaches yous how to install your new RAM in a laptop, PC desktop, or iMac computer.

1. i

   Purchase RAM that's compatible with your computer. RAM comes in a variety of models, sizes, and speeds. The type you'll need to purchase depends on your motherboard. Cheque your motherboard or calculator's documentation, or check the manufacturer'due south website for the RAM specifications that are compatible with your hardware.

   • Your motherboard has a limit to the number of RAM sticks yous can install. Some motherboards support simply two, while others support 4, half-dozen, or even more. Near motherboards have a limit to the amount of memory that they support, regardless of the number of slots.
   • Information technology's also important to note that not all PCs are upgradeable, so if you're not sure, check with your PC's manufacturer. This is often the example with laptops
   • In that location's no guarantee that unmatching RAM volition work together. So if you're buying multiple sticks of RAM, buy it in a set of two or more than that are identical.

2. 2

   Shut downwardly the reckoner. One time y'all have your RAM, unplug your PC'due south power plug and any peripherals connected to the reckoner, such monitors, keyboards, and mice.

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3. 3

   Open your estimator instance. Lay your computer tower on its side, so that you can access the motherboard when the side panel is removed. You may need a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the panel, or yous may be able to unscrew information technology by hand.

4. four

   Discharge any static. Ensure that you lot do not take static build-up on your body. Static tin can damage computer parts, and tin be imperceptible to a human. Ground yourself before starting, or use an antistatic wrist strap.

   • Yous can ground yourself by touching a metal part on your computer example while information technology is unplugged from the wall. But existence turned off does non remove whatsoever standby voltages, so make sure it's unplugged.
   • Don't stand on carpeting while working on the interior of the computer.

5. 5

   Locate your RAM slots. Most motherboards have 2 or 4 RAM slots. RAM slots are typically located virtually the CPU, though their location may vary depending on the manufacturer or model. Wait for narrow slots about 4.5 inches long with tabs on either end. At least i of the slots already has a stick of RAM in it.

6. half-dozen

   Remove old RAM (if upgrading). If you are replacing one-time RAM, remove it by pressing the clamps downwards on either side of the slot. You'll be able to lift the RAM straight out of the motherboard with little to no effort.

   • If you're having to pull too hard, the clamps are likely non down far enough. You may demand to use one manus to push the clamps downwardly while using the other hand to remove the RAM.

7. 7

   Accept your new RAM out of its protective packaging. Carefully remove the RAM from the shielded packaging. Grip it from the sides to avoid touching the contacts on the bottom or the circuitry on the board.

8. viii

   Insert the RAM into the RAM slot. Line up the notch in the stick of RAM to the break in the slot. Set the stick into the slot and and then apply equal pressure onto the stick until the clamps on the side click and lock the RAM in. It'll just fit in one way, so if it'southward not lining up properly, just flip information technology around. You may have to apply a fair corporeality of pressure level, but never force it in.

   • Make sure matching pairs are inserted into their matching sockets. Some are labeled on the board or past color, though you may need to refer to your motherboard layout diagram.
   • Repeat the procedure for each stick of RAM you want to install.
   • While you lot have the PC open, remove grit using a canteen of compressed air. This can be a quick fix for full general overheating and performance bug. Compressed air cans are available at whatever office supply shop.

9. 9

   Put the case back on the PC. One time you've finished inserting your RAM sticks, you can put the panel back on and screw information technology back in. Avoid running your computer while the panel is off, as this will actually reduce the cooling ability of your fans. Plug your peripherals and monitor back in.

10. x

    Power on the computer. Your reckoner should start normally. If your calculator displays the cocky-test during the startup, then you can verify that the RAM has been installed correctly. If not, yous tin verify that the RAM was installed in one case Windows starts.

    • If your PC will not boot, the RAM is probably not seated properly. Ability downwardly your PC and re-open information technology. And then, remove and reseat the RAM. Make sure information technology clicks firmly into place and and then try again.

11. 11

    Bank check the RAM in Windows. Printing the Windows fundamental + Suspension/Interruption to open the System Properties. Your RAM will be listed in the System section or at the lesser of the window.

    • Operating systems calculate memory differently and some computers dedicate a certain corporeality of RAM to specific functions (e.g., video), decreasing the amount bachelor. For example, you may have purchased 8 GB of RAM, but you'll probable only meet nearly vii.78 GB of usable memory.

12. 12

    Run a RAM test if in that location are problems. If you aren't certain your memory was installed correctly, or your computer isn't running properly since installing information technology, y'all tin can examination the RAM using the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool. Information technology may take a while to run, just will discover any errors and display how much is installed.

    • To run the tool, press the Windows cardinal on the keyboard and type memory into the search bar. Click Windows Memory Diagnostic to launch the tool, and then click Restart now and check for bug to run diagnostics.

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1. 1

   Purchase RAM for your iMac. The type of RAM y'all need for your iMac depends on the model. To discover out what type of RAM, as well as the maximum amount of RAM immune, for your model, visit https://support.apple.com/en-united states/HT201191.

2. two

   Close down your iMac. Before you get started, fully power down your iMac and disconnect its power cord from the wall. If whatsoever other peripherals are connected to your iMac, disconnect those as well.

   • Because the inner components tin can run quite hot, Apple recommends waiting at least ten minutes before installing RAM in your iMac.

3. three

   Lay the iMac flat on a clean soft towel. To protect the monitor, lay a make clean fabric down on a flat surface before laying your iMac down monitor-side-downwards.^[1]

4. 4

   Open your iMac's memory access door. The steps are unlike depending on the model:

   • 27" and 21" models (2012 or later): Press the minor greyness button but above the power port to open up the memory compartment door. Lift the door off of the dorsum of the monitor and set it bated. And so, push the two levers outward (to the sides) to release the memory cage, and pull the levers toward you to run across the RAM slots.
   • xx" and 17" models (2006 only): Apply a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew both screws on the memory access door, which is on the bottom border of the monitor. Set it bated one time removed. Then, press the 2 ejector clips on either border of the access door outward (to the sides).
   • Other models: Utilize a Philips caput screwdriver to remove the screw at the centre of the retentiveness admission door. The door is on the lesser edge of the monitor. Remove the door completely and set it aside. Untuck the tabs in the retention compartment and then they are visible.

5. 5

   Remove the existing RAM (if replacing): Here's how:

   • 27" and 21" models (2012 or later): Pull the RAM straight out upward. Information technology should hands come up out of the slot. Make sure to notation the direction of the notch so y'all know how to insert the new RAM.
   • xx" and 17" models (2006 merely): Just pull the RAM outward to remove it, noting its direction so you lot can properly insert the new RAM.
   • Other models: Gently pull the tab toward yous to eject memory that's currently installed. Note the orientation of the RAM considering you'll desire to install the new RAM the same manner.

6. half dozen

   Insert the new RAM. Again, it'due south a footling unlike depending on the model:

   • 27" and 21" models (2012 or later): Align the RAM over the slot with the notch pointing downwards. It volition line upward with the notch within the slot. Press downwardly until the RAM clicks into place.
   • xx" and 17" models (2006 just): Slide the RAM notch-side-in into the slot. Utilize your thumbs to press the RAM in until you experience a slight click. Press both ejector clips back inward to lock the RAM into place.
   • Other models: Slide the RAM into the slot with the notch pointing upward (toward the acme of the monitor). When you push it in far enough, you'll feel a slight click.

7. 7

   Replace the retentivity admission door. If your model has plastic tabs that you untucked, tuck them back into place first. Then reattach the door or cover only as you removed it.

   • If yous pressed a button to unlock the door, yous don't have to press the push button to put it dorsum on.

8. 8

   Bring your iMac upright and power it dorsum on. When your iMac turns back on, it will self-test and detect the new RAM automatically.

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1. 1

   Notice out what type of RAM is required for your laptop computer. RAM comes in a diverseness of models and speeds. The type of RAM you tin can get is dependent on your reckoner. Check your laptop's documentation, or check the manufacturer's website for the RAM specifications that are compatible with your hardware.

   • If you lot're using a Mac laptop, visit https://back up.apple tree.com/en-united states of america/HT201165 to find out what type of RAM you'll need to buy.

2. 2

   Power down and unplug your notebook. Start by saving any piece of work you have open, and then shut down your computer normally. If any external cables are attached, remove them too. It's likewise a good idea to press and hold the power button for near five seconds to belch residual power.

   • If you're using a Mac, click the Apple card at the top-left corner and select Close Downwards.
   • If you're using Windows, click the Windows menu, select the Power button, and so choose Shut Down.

3. iii

   Identify your laptop upside-down on a flat surface. The lesser of your laptop should be facing upwardly.

4. 4

   Ground yourself. Before opening whatsoever panels on your laptop, make sure you are properly grounded to prevent damaging your components. Y'all tin ground yourself by touching a metal part on your computer case while it is unplugged from the wall.^[2] Only being turned off does not remove any standby voltages.

5. 5

   Locate your RAM slots. This can be tricky because the process is so different depending on your laptop. Your possessor'southward manual or manufacturer's website would be the best places to check to find out how exactly to admission your laptop's RAM slots. In general, you'll ordinarily need to remove the battery embrace (if there is one) and/or unscrew the lesser of the case and lift it abroad from the computer.

6. 6

   Check how many slots you have. Your notebook's RAM can be accessed past removing the panel on the lesser of the reckoner. There are ordinarily a few different panels, so wait for the one with the memory icon, or check you transmission.

   • Most notebooks only have one or two RAM slots. Higher-cease notebooks may take more.
   • Yous will demand a very modest Phillips-head screwdriver in social club to remove the panel (if the panel is required to remove).

7. 7

   Determine if your RAM needs to exist installed in pairs. When it is required, it is considering the pairs are the aforementioned size and timings and meant to run together every bit dual-channel. If you're just installing one stick of RAM or RAM with unlike sizes or timings, you don't accept to have a matched pair.

8. 8

   Remove old RAM (if upgrading). If you are replacing onetime RAM, remove it by releasing any clamps on the side of the socket. You can release the clamps by pressing downward on them or pushing them both outward in opposite directions. The RAM will popular upwards at a fiddling bit of an angle. Elevator the RAM at a 45° angle and then pull information technology out of the socket.

9. 9

   Remove your new RAM from its protective packaging. Brand sure to only grip the stick from the sides to avoid touching the contacts or the circuitry on the stick itself.

10. 10

    Line up the notch in the RAM stick with the interruption in the slot. The RAM will non lock into identify unless the notches align. Slide the RAM in at a 45° angle until the clamps lock into place.

    • If you have multiple complimentary slots, install RAM in the lowest number first.

11. xi

    Close upwards the laptop and power it back on. Flip the laptop around, plug it in and turn information technology on. Your computer should boot upwardly unremarkably and automatically detect the RAM.

    • If yous're using a PC and concerned that the RAM wasn't installed properly, press the Windows key on the keyboard and type memory into the search bar. Click Windows Retention Diagnostic to launch the tool, and so click Restart now and check for bug to run diagnostics.

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Add New Question

• Question

  How much RAM do I demand?

  

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  Fasten Businesswoman is the Owner of Spike's Computer Repair based in Los Angeles, California. With over 25 years of working experience in the tech industry, Spike specializes in PC and Mac calculator repair, used computer sales, virus removal, information recovery, and hardware and software upgrades. He has his CompTIA A+ certification for computer service technicians and is a Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert.

  

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  Support wikiHow past unlocking this adept answer.

  The more RAM you have, the smoother your experience will be. Nonetheless, if yous're just doing some basic online browsing and light picture editing or something, then eight GB is going to exist totally fine. If you're doing AutoCAD, 3D modelling, or another kind of crazy CPU-intensive piece of work on the computer, and then you lot desire 32 GB if you can support it.

• Question

  What are some signs that my RAM needs to exist replaced?

  

  Fasten Baron
  Network Engineer & Desktop Support

  Spike Baron is the Owner of Fasten's Computer Repair based in Los Angeles, California. With over 25 years of working feel in the tech industry, Spike specializes in PC and Mac computer repair, used computer sales, virus removal, data recovery, and hardware and software upgrades. He has his CompTIA A+ certification for computer service technicians and is a Microsoft Certified Solutions Adept.

  

  Network Engineer & Desktop Support

  Expert Answer

• Question

  Tin can I simply add RAM to my PC?

  

  Fasten Businesswoman
  Network Engineer & Desktop Support

  Spike Baron is the Owner of Spike's Computer Repair based in Los Angeles, California. With over 25 years of working experience in the tech industry, Spike specializes in PC and Mac computer repair, used estimator sales, virus removal, information recovery, and hardware and software upgrades. He has his CompTIA A+ certification for estimator service technicians and is a Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert.

  

  Network Engineer & Desktop Support

  Expert Respond

  

  Support wikiHow past unlocking this expert answer.

  It's not quite that simple, although it isn't super complicated. Yous have to cheque your motherboard to make sure you have open slots; that's step i. Then, you have to make certain you become RAM cards that fit those slots.

• Question

  Is it better to accept iv gigabytes of RAM or 8?

  

  The college, the better. 8 gigabytes is a good corporeality for near people.

• Question

  If I have 3 2GB slots that are empty, can I add 2 more 2GB RAM?

  

  Usually, computers work all-time with even number of retentiveness sticks. If y'all desire to install more memory sticks, yous should go along then an even number, so either add i more than stick (preferably same brand/model) so you have 2 memory sticks, or add 3 more sticks, so you have 4 in total.

• Question

  If I change my RAM, volition I non have any problems without anything to download and my PC will work properly?

  

  Changing your computer's RAM doesn't solve all of your problems. Information technology tin can slightly (or even significantly) affect the computer's perceived calculating speed, however, your speed will always exist limited past the processor'south capabilities. Changing your computer's RAM is irrelevant to downloading things. If you are request "will I need to download content to utilise new RAM" and so the answer is no. Your PC may function better with more (or replaced) RAM, however, if there are unrelated problems with your PC, and so because they are unrelated changing the RAM is pointless.

• Question

  How do I know if a specific RAM is compatible with my motherboard?

  

  Check your motherboard or computer'southward specifications. Some sites that specialize in RAM sales volition have tools that allow you to input make/model to inform you which would exist appropriate for your system.

• Question

  Tin I install a different types of RAM, such as 4GB in one slot and 2 GB in another?

  

  While in theory, you can install dissimilar sizes of RAM of the aforementioned speeds; notwithstanding, you lot may find that this affects performance or causes lockups or crashes. Information technology's advisable to pair the same types of RAM.

• Question

  Why won't my calculator turn on after installing new RAM?

  

  If your computer volition non turn on after yous take installed new RAM, at that place's a good run a risk that you either accidentally installed incompatible RAM or the RAM you installed is faulty. Double-check the RAM that you lot installed to make sure that it is compatible with your motherboard. If the RAM should be compatible, make sure that you've installed information technology as a matching pair. Finally, try returning the new RAM and getting a replacement, as RAM comes broken fairly often.

• Question

  What do I exercise if my figurer won't Mail service afterwards installing new RAM?

  

  If your computer won't boot upwards and gets stuck on the BIOS screen, the BIOS may be having problems with your new RAM. Open up your BIOS settings menu and make certain that your BIOS is set to automatically detect hardware changes. If this doesn't fix your trouble, your RAM may exist incompatible, faulty, or improperly installed.

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• Don't be alarmed if the computer shows you lot slightly less RAM retentiveness than you purchased. This is a deviation in measurement or memory allocation. If the RAM memory size is largely dissimilar than what you purchased and installed, and then a fleck may non be continued properly or may be defective.

• If you are getting a beep when you turn on the computer, you lot may accept installed an wrong retention type, or you have installed the memory modules incorrectly. Your computer manufacturer tin can explain what the beep code means.

• A proficient website to use is the Crucial retentivity website http://www.crucial.com/ as they have a memory adviser tool which tells you how much and what blazon of ram your reckoner takes. You tin too buy memory from here

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• Do not insert RAM modules backwards. After the computer is turned on with the RAM modules backwards, the RAM slot and the offending RAM module are damaged. In rare cases, it may damage the motherboard.

• If you exercise not experience comfortable opening a computer, accept the computer to a professional. Since y'all purchased the RAM modules yourself, it should not be too expensive to accept someone else install it.

• Brand sure to discharge any possible static buildup before touching RAM; it is extremely sensitive to ESD (Electro-Static Discharge). Practice this by touching metal before touching your computer.

• Do not touch the metal parts on the RAM modules. This may cause damage to the RAM modules.

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About This Article

Article Summary Ten

one. Power downward the computer.
2. Remove the example and ground yourself.
3. Remove new RAM from protective packaging.
4. Marshal new RAM above an empty slot.
5. Press the RAM in until the clamps click.
6. Remove dust with canned air.
7. Replace the instance and power on the PC.

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Source: https://www.wikihow.com/Install-RAM

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