Setting up new RAM. Installing RAM

Hello friends! I think many will agree that when assembling a PC, especially a gaming one, you should try to get the most out of the available components. However, this does not mean that you should ignore the possibility of improving the computer used for work - extra frequencies never hurt.

One of the desirable conditions is the use of dual-channel RAM mode. You can read in detail about what this is.

When purchasing RAM, it is better to take not one large capacity stick, but two smaller ones. In terms of price, it will not be much more expensive, but the computer will work faster, which is important for any user.

In this manual, I will tell you how to install RAM in dual-channel mode correctly and what needs to be taken into account. At the end of the publication you will find a thematic video.

Design features of motherboards

Typically, motherboards have 2, 4 or 8 RAM slots. In the first case, these are most likely budget solutions, with the most reduced capabilities (I don’t recommend messing with them), in the second, mid-range and top-end ones, and in the last, the most expensive and sometimes server-based ones.

To operate RAM in dual-channel mode, you must install two (or however many of them you have) sticks in the correct slots, otherwise the option simply will not be activated. Naturally, it is necessary that the motherboard supports such an option, which you should make sure of before purchasing it.

Activation implies the use of an even number of memory modules (two, four or eight), preferably not very different in size, timings, frequency and other characteristics.

If these conditions are met, sticks installed in paired slots for RAM will operate in dual-channel mode. Usually they are marked with one color, and the other two are paired, respectively (most often they are blue and black). However, this is not always the case.

In this case, you should look at the designation on the motherboard itself. Schematically it looks like this

• Channel A DIMM 0 – strip from the first pair;
• Channel A DIMM 1 – strip from the second pair;
• Channel B DIMM 0 – strip from the first pair;
• Channel B DIMM 1 – strip from the second pair.

If you have only two strips, then leave the slots for the second pair empty. Roughly speaking, the slats should be installed one at a time - in most cases this will be the correct position. The same applies to the four memory modules that you are going to install on a motherboard with 8 slots.

If you have doubts about the correct location of the RAM, do not be lazy to look at the documentation for the motherboard: about the location of the slots and the correct installation of parts, everything is indicated there.

I won’t spill the beans about why additional RAM is needed and what it gives, because if you have already asked yourself the question of increasing RAM, then you probably know why you need it.

Main settings random access memory Why you need to buy additional RAM:
1. First of all, we need to find out the maximum amount of supported memory of our motherboard. To do this, you can go to the official website of the motherboard or to a site where there is a detailed review.
2. The next step is to open our system unit, namely the left side, after first turning off the computer and disconnecting the power cord from the network.
3. On the motherboard we look for the strip of our “old” RAM. As shown in the figure, bend the mount in the opposite direction from the RAM strip itself and remove it.

In order for the compatibility of our new and old RAM to be at its best, it is necessary that all parameters be as identical as possible. To do this, carefully look at the next step.

4. The figure below shows the RAM on which there is a sticker with its main parameters:
Memory capacity: 8GB
Clock frequency: 1333MHz
Manufacturer: Corsair XMS3
(It is recommended to buy a “twin” for full compatibility, or at least you can ignore the manufacturer).

Having selected the RAM we need, we proceed to direct installation:
5. Please note that the slots for installing additional RAM are marked on the motherboard (see the figure below).

6. Install our first stick in the DDR3_1 slot, and the second, respectively, in DDR3_2 as shown in the figure above.

7. We assemble the system unit and supply power to it, then turn on the computer and wait for it to fully boot. We go to the “My Computer” property, a small window of your PC parameters will appear at the bottom of which the amount of RAM will be written - this is the total amount of your RAM.

Interesting facts and tips for expanding RAM:
1. Before purchasing new RAM, check that it will suit you in all respects.
2. Know that not everyone operating system can support more than 4GB of RAM
3. If you have the opportunity, then when purchasing new RAM, make a preference for one with an iron case - this will increase heat transfer and extend the service life.
4. If you are purchasing two planks at once, then buy them as a set in one box, even if it is a little more expensive, but it is of better quality and more reliable.

Now, as I promised, I will present you a program for testing and obtaining information about RAM:
Program name: Everest Ultimate Edition 5.30.1900 Final
This program is designed to collect information about the computer as a whole and about a specific device. You can also conduct equipment tests, configure optimal configurations, and receive complete and detailed reports. The program is shareware, that is, its trial period is 30 days, but all its components are available to work.

General program window

On the left is the navigation menu. We are primarily interested in the system board section (it is also the motherboard, since this is where our board is connected). Next, we go to the memory subsection and all the information about the memory of our computer appears in the central window. We are interested in physical memory, also known as operational memory. In this section we receive data on the total volume, how much is occupied, free and how much is loaded as a percentage.

If we go to the test section, then for our physical memory there are as many as four test options:
Reading from memory;
Memory recording;
Copying to memory;
Memory delay.

This is how you can view information and conduct tests for free. Good luck with installing a new, additional RAM board!

For some reason, there is an opinion among the majority of computer users that diving into the depths of their pet with a screwdriver in their hands is the lot of exclusively unfriendly bearded men in frayed sweaters, and there is nothing for a mere mortal to do there. Today we will try to at least partially debunk this myth.

Computer RAM modules are components of a modern desktop computer that are both important and vulnerable. They are very sensitive to overheating and voltage surges. Dust that accidentally gets into a memory slot can cause or even make its further operation impossible. As a result, the user (including the most ordinary person who does not have special knowledge and skills) may well be faced with the need for such a thing as replacing RAM.

Installing RAM on the motherboard may also be necessary if the user wanted to give himself and the computer a gift and a little. Still, the rule that there is never too much memory has not become obsolete since the advent of computers.

In both described cases, they often resort to the help of acquaintances whose knowledge in the computer field is above average. Sometimes, if you don’t mind spending money, they call some familiar acquaintances who, for a fee, will help carry out all the necessary manipulations. And then they are surprised that they demand money from them for 5 minutes of work.

Well, we are frugal users, so we’ll try to figure out the issue of installing RAM ourselves.

Stage one - you need to decide which one you need. There are several ways to do this. The first (if the computer is still working) is to use special utilities that allow you to determine, without opening the case, to determine the type of memory, the absolutely free CPU-Z utility is quite suitable, which will give you a lot of useful information about the processor and motherboard. What is important is that this utility is absolutely free.

If installing RAM is necessary due to the untimely “death” of old modules, you can use the documentation for the motherboard that came with the computer. If you cannot find the documentation, you will have to open the case and remove the modules yourself. To do this, you just need to gently press on the two clamps that hold each memory module at the ends. The memory stick will come out of the slot on its own. After this, you can either read the exact characteristics (frequency, capacity and type of memory) on the sticker, which is located on the bar itself, or take it to the store and show it to the seller - he is no stranger to this.

Well, you bought what you wanted, and now the most important step is installing RAM in the computer. We open the case and find the RAM slots. As a rule, they are on the motherboard to the right of the processor, much less often - on top.

In the majority modern computers It is better to install memory modules in pairs, and the modules must be from the same manufacturer and based on the same chips. That is, it is better to immediately purchase a pair of planks. In this case, you will achieve memory performance that will slightly increase its performance. Much less common are computers with three- and four-channel RAM, but this is still rare. Slots into which memory must be installed at the same time are usually marked with a certain color. Therefore, if you are replacing memory, you must remove two modules from slots of the same color. If you add, insert new modules into the same slots.

Carefully insert the memory module into the empty slot. After making sure that the cutouts on the module coincide with the protrusions in the connector itself, carefully press on the bar. It should fit into the slot without excessive effort, and the latches on the sides should automatically snap into place and securely fix the memory module in the slot. If this does not happen, do not try to latch them yourself. Better remove the bar and try again.

Yes, it goes without saying that both the installation of RAM and its removal should take place on a computer completely disconnected from the power supply.

When the modules are installed, put on the case cover, connect the power and turn on the computer. If you did everything correctly, at the BIOS boot stage you will be able to enjoy the RAM counter, which will show the new amount of RAM.

If you have successfully selected and purchased the RAM module you need, let's install it correctly in our computer. All the parts inside the system unit do not require significant physical effort to handle, so relax a little. Before work, it would be a good idea to read the manual that came with your motherboard; it must have its own instructions for installing RAM.

• Note: If you have a laptop, then read the article -.

First of all, we remove static electricity from ourselves by touching the unpainted parts of your system unit with our hands.

We perform all actions with the computer turned off. Unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet. We remove the side cover of the system unit and find the slots for RAM on the motherboard. Usually there are from two to four. Each RAM slot has special latches on the edges on both sides; they must be carefully pressed to the sides.

Now look carefully at any slot for installing RAM, it has a special protrusion.

Now take out the RAM module and you will see a special slot or recess on it.

So, we pressed the two latches of the RAM slot to the sides, and carefully insert our RAM module into the slot.

If you bought the RAM module correctly, then when installing the module into the slot intended for it on the motherboard, this cutout should definitely fit into the protrusion. If the cutout and protrusion do not match, then the RAM module is not designed to work on this motherboard.

The module should fall into the guides without any distortions, now the most crucial moment, lightly and carefully press the module from above on both sides with your thumbs, it should fall into place, and the latches should click into place.

If the latches do not click into place, look carefully to see if the module is fully seated in the slot; if it is fully seated, then fix the latch yourself. I think everything is clearly visible in the screenshots.

In view of the ever-increasing demands of modern software, after some time the user may reconsider the issue of self-sufficiency in the configuration of his computer. As a rule, the owner of computer equipment makes the initial upgrade by increasing the RAM of his PC. At the same time, in addition to hardware upgrades (installation of additional memory sticks), the user can also use a number of software tools that allow optimizing the operation of the mentioned system component. Which, ultimately, will also have a positive impact on solving the question: “How to add it to a computer?” If you want to achieve the best results in the process of increasing the speed and performance of your OS, but do not quite understand how to do this and how much it may cost you, devote a few minutes of your time to reading this article. You will receive invaluable benefits from free access to the material provided.

So, the top solutions “How to add RAM to a computer?”

The methods covered (software and hardware RAM upgrade) can be used as solutions independent of each other or as correctly interacting solutions. It is worth noting that an integrated approach is preferable to a simple action - adding one or more to a free slot. A little later you will find out why.

Method number 1: Bought, installed, launched

For stable operation, the Windows 7 operating system requires 1.5 GB of RAM. As a rule, a purchased office PC has two gigabytes of RAM. For resource-intensive programs (video editors or computer games) this volume is not always enough. Consequently, the user has a need to expand the capabilities of the RAM. However, before implementing such a hardware upgrade scenario, you need to ask the question: “Is it possible to add RAM?” Since in the case when you use a 32-bit version of Windows, two or more gigabytes added to the current amount of RAM may simply not be used by the system due to some restrictions that are initiated by the BIOS firmware. Another unpleasant moment for the user may be the discrepancy between the purchased memory module and the standard motherboard connector. In other words, before going to the store, you need to know exactly what type of RAM is supported by your PC or laptop, as well as the technical characteristics of the installed memory.

Forced valuable retreat

A question that often interests a beginner: how much RAM costs, needs some specification. Since in modern computer technology There are several types of RAM: DDR, DDR2, DDR3, which, in turn, have a number of significant differences. Depending on the manufacturer and technical characteristics of the memory, the cost of the product varies. However, using the Kingston brand as an example, some price comparison can be made different types produced RAM.

• DDR2 for 1 GB - about 1400 rubles, and 2 GB will cost 2300 rubles;
• DDR3 2 GB will cost 1900 rubles, 4 GB - 3100 rubles, but 8 GB RAM of this type will cost 6400 rubles;
• SODIMM DDR2 2 GB - 1800 rubles;
• SODIMM DDR3 for 4 GB - 3200 rubles, and for 8 GB the price will be around 6200 rubles.

In addition to information about how much RAM costs, another one will also be useful to you: each type of RAM in its segment is divided according to technical specifications: nominal volume, throughput buses and data exchange speed (frequency), which are indicators of the performance and efficiency of a particular modification. Laptop computers use similar memory, but slightly modified and designated SODIMM, which is essentially a type of RAM. By the way, the cost of “minimized” memory is practically no different from the stationary version. True, some modifications of laptop memory modules are still cheaper than their “desktop counterparts”.

Installing an additional memory stick

To equip with another RAM module, follow the recommendations below. As a result, you will receive a practical answer to the question: “How to add RAM to a computer.”

1). Disconnect from electrical power source.

2). Typically, access to the internal components of a PC is achieved by unscrewing a group of retaining screws that hold the protective cover of the device in place. Important: if you personally open the system unit, you will no longer have to rely on the guarantee. Since when opening the lid you will inevitably damage the service seals.

3). Install the new memory module in the appropriate slot. If there are several of them, pay attention to the markings of the connectors. Typically the correct sequence is given as digital value. In some cases, there is a special order of installed memory sticks. Interacting connectors (for example, 2 modules from one manufacturer and 2 from another) are painted in two different colors.

Please accept our first congratulations! Now you know how to properly add RAM.

Portable solution

Despite design features laptop, the process of installing RAM is, in general, a fairly simple step... if you have a thin Phillips screwdriver.

1). Turn off your laptop and unplug it.

2). Remove battery from the device.

3). Take a close look at the back of the laptop - a grooved or inscribed designation in the form of “DIMM” or “MEMORY” is where the RAM is located.

4). Unscrew the screws holding the cover and carefully pry up the edge of the protective casing.

5). Install the optional memory module and close the cover.

Method No. 2: flash drive as additional RAM capacity

On Windows 7 and its Ready Boost functional add-on, a hybrid option for expanding RAM resources will be considered.

Insert the flash drive into the USB port of your PC or laptop. Format the removable media partition. Place the marker over the flash drive shortcut and, while holding the right mouse button, call up the context menu, from which select “Properties”. In the window that opens, go to the Ready Boost tab. Activate the “Use this device” checkbox, then click “Apply” and “OK”.

As you can see, the question is: “How to add RAM to a computer?” can be resolved using this method.

Method No. 3: Optimizing RAM

By installing a special Memory Booster utility on your PC, you will significantly speed up your OS. Despite its small size and compact interface, the program easily copes with RAM optimization, freeing up PC RAM that is reserved by various software. This significantly improves system performance. The utility always runs in the background. So control over particularly “gluttonous” programs will be organized very vigilantly.

Method No. 4: OS virtual memory

This method is exclusively a software tool for increasing RAM. A standard Windows tool provides for expanding operational resources by allocating a certain disk space for the needs of temporary files. The special virtual OS partition should not be confused; these are fundamentally different services. generated OS has a value equal to the amount of installed RAM. When physical memory is insufficient, the system uses virtual amounts of RAM. The size of the paging file can be either reduced or increased. It all depends on the user's needs.

Practical solution

1). Open the Start menu.

2). Hold the marker on the “Computer” section and right-click to call up the context list, from which select “Properties”.

3). While in the “System” service window, activate the “Advanced settings” link on the left.

4). In the “Performance” block, click on the button.

5). Once in the Options window, click on the Advanced tab.

If you activate the "Edit" button, you will be given the opportunity to make changes to the default settings.

Finally

“So how much RAM can you add?” you ask. The meaning is strictly predetermined. It all depends on functionality your motherboard. The BIOS version also has a great influence on the “hardware perception” of the PC. Finally, a 64-bit operating system removes almost all restrictions on the amount of RAM. But, as you understand, in such a situation the OS is a secondary authority. Therefore, only the BIOS determines whether the motherboard is capable of “accepting” the desired amounts of RAM. So before upgrading your PC, do your research. technical certificate computer.