In this PC Building Guide, we will guide you on how to install RAM on a PC or Laptop. Follow the steps closely and you will be able to install the RAM in no time!
The RAM is one of the core components of modern computing. As Computers are packed with different components, the RAM is one of the vital components without which you can’t run a system.
Learning to upgrade your System’s RAM is very easy and any non-technical person can do it as well. The process is very simple for both on PC and Laptop. For the laptop, you might need a screwdriver to open up the back cover and then install the RAM, but apart from that, the processor is straightforward.
So in this article, we will be guiding you on how to install RAM on a PC and Laptop.
What is a RAM?
RAM or the Random Access Memory stores data temporarily which can be used to run all the applications on your computer. Since modern computers can perform multiple calculations in seconds. So to store so much data, RAMs came into existence.
They have a built-in memory to store all these calculations temporarily. That is why it is called volatile memory. It erases everything from its memory once the system or the application restarts. To keep it simple, the more RAM you have, the better multitasking you can do.
READ: How to Stop Windows 10 Update
How to install RAM
Do it Yourself or DIY is the best thing that you can do when building or upgrading RAM for PC Computers or Laptop Computers. A RAM upgrade is one of those upgrades which are extremely simple and easy as and you don’t need to touch any cables or open up any screws. The process of upgrading RAM Memory on a PC can be done in a matter of minutes if you exactly know what you are doing.
How to install RAM on a PC
Here are the steps to install RAM on a PC or a Computer.
STEP 1
Read the motherboard manual
First, check how many slots you have on your current motherboard. It is always advisable to run the memory in the Dual Channel mode. The manual says everything properly and newer motherboards also have two different colors coded to make it easier for you to connect.
STEP 2
Remove the older RAM (if you have one)
If you are upgrading your RAM, or if you already have RAM installed, take it out by pressing down the two plastic tabs on each side of the DIMM slots and the stick will pop out. The RAM stick should come out when you pull out the stick easily, if not double-check again with the plastic tabs and check if they are still connected to the sides of the RAM.
STEP 3
Open up the Two DIMM Slots
All the modern motherboards come with closed DIMM Slots. Open those two tabs from both ends by pressing down. However do take note that DDR3 motherboards have tabs that open up from both ends but in DDR4 motherboards, you can open it from one end only.
STEP 4
Lineup your RAMs properly
RAMs can only be installed in a single orientation. So double-check the small indent in the middle of your RAM stick and align it accordingly with the small barrier inside the DIMM slot. The indent and the barrier will help you with the direction to install it.
STEP 5
Insert the RAM
Once you have lined up the RAM, insert it into the DIMM slot. If you have a DDR3 motherboard, then align the ram and push down on both the ends until you feel a click which would indicate a safe install. If you have a DDR4 motherboard, first insert the RAM on the end which is fixed, and push down on both the ends until you hear and feel a click.
If you feel that the installation is a little stiff or you are seeing flexing on the motherboard you should immediately stop and follow the steps again. Applying too much pressure while installing the RAM might harm your motherboard so make sure you put too much pressure neither on the DIMM slots nor on the RAM.
READ: How to install M.2 SSD
How to install a CPU Cooler
Follow these steps to install the Ram Sticks into a Desktop or PC.
How to install RAM on a laptop
Here are the steps to install RAM on a Laptop.
STEP 1
Unplug the Laptop and remove all the external power Sources
The first step towards installing RAM sticks on your laptop is by unplugging and removing every external power source. Since most of the laptops operate at around 20V, you won’t risk getting electrocuted when you touch an internal electrical component. But the static electricity will definitely short the motherboard components and brick your laptop.
Discharge your static electricity first by touching a metal surface and then turn the laptop upside down and remove the battery. Drain the laptop power by pressing the power button for at least 10 secs. By doing this, the laptop will discharge all the electricity that might come in contact with the static electricity of the body. And don’t forget to wear something when changing the RAM modules on laptops.
STEP 2
Use a Philips Head Screw Driver
Get a Philips Screwdriver that has an X-shaped head. Place the laptop properly on a cloth or a mousepad and turn over the laptop so that the bottom side faces up.
STEP 3
Find out the Memory Module Slot cover
Try going through the laptop manual once, and find out the Memory module Slot cover. Remove the screws carefully one by one. The screws should come out easily and shouldn’t take much force. Don’t force open the RAM slot cover as you might have the chance of breaking it. It should come out automatically as soon as you remove all the screws.
STEP 4
Check yourself if you are grounded properly
Before touching the exposed memory modules, double-check again to see if you are properly grounded. Take out the new RAM module from the package but don’t touch the Golden connectors as it might reduce the electrical conductivity.
STEP 5
Line up your RAM
Find the empty RAM module slot on your laptop. If you have both the slots populated with RAMs then simply take out the one which you want to replace. Take the new RAM module and align the indent on the golden connectors with the bump in the socket.
READ: How to install Graphics Driver
STEP 6
Insert the RAM
Slide the RAM inside the module and press it gently until you feel a click. Most of the laptop sockets should align at around 30 degrees. Once it is in the socket, push it down to secure it at its place.
STEP 7
Put back everything
Put back the memory slot cover and lock it back in its place with the screw and don’t overtighten the screws.
STEP 8
Restart your System
Reinstall the battery and turn the laptop lid side up. Dont forget to plug in the Laptop Adapter and switch on the computer.
Follow these steps and you will be able to understand how to install the RAM in both desktops and laptops.
That’s all folks!
A 30-year-old avid gamer by choice dabbles in all things tech. Whether spending hours in single-player narrative-based games or going through the latest innovation in technology and chip manufacturing, he prefers to stay on top of things. At the other times, you’ll find him tucked away drumming and headbanging to Rock and Roll Classics.