One of the most effective ways to improve your PC performance is by upgrading its RAM (Random Access Memory). Installing an upgraded RAM can make your PC fast and efficient. If you are experiencing slow performance when multiple programs are running, yes you need to upgrade your memory. Are you experiencing recurring window crashes or freezing windows? It’s a sign you need to upgrade your RAM. If you are wondering how? This blog will teach you how to install RAM in a pc & laptop.
For light everyday computing, a mere 4 GB RAM would be enough. However, nowadays, with continuously advancing software versions, 4 GB is not worth it in any case. It’s better to start with 8Gb at minimum. A RAM of 16 GB is quite good for running most games. However, if you are moving towards professional content creation, development, 3d rendering and want it to be compatible with future software, 32GB RAM would be the best decision for you. Whether you use a desktop or laptop, here is how to install RAM safely and securely without any external help.
What RAM Is Compatible with My PC?
Before, learning how to install RAM learn to find the compatible RAM for your pc. Then we will discuss how to install more RAM. However, before you begin to upgrade, you must know the following things to ensure a successful installation.
Compatible RAM Type
Check the RAM Type that is compatible with your PC. RAMs have to be compatible with the motherboard and CPU. Motherboards have specific slots for RAMs such as DDR3, DDR4, or DDR5. If you’re upgrading to DDR5 memory RAM, then you need to make sure your motherboard has a slot for DDR5.
Compatible Capacity
Check the maximum RAM capacity that your motherboard can support. Otherwise, upgrading to a RAM not supported by the motherboard will be a waste of money & effort.
Compatible Speed
Check the speed that your motherboard can support. For instance, if your motherboard can only support a speed of 2400MHz or more at max, you have to stick to it.
Form Factor Compatibility
Check the RAM’s form factor. If you have a desktop, it will have DIMM slots, while if you have a laptop, go for SO-DIMMS RAMS. SO-DIMMS RAMS take half the space compared to DIMMS.
How to Install RAM in PC?
Installing RAM requires multiple steps. Learn how to install RAM on a PC by following the simple steps listed below. Remember, PC motherboards have a 90-degree angle to remove or place RAM, while laptop motherboards use a 45-degree angle.
Step 1: The first step is to turn off your computer so that power runs off it.
Step 2: Then, remove all the connected cables to remove the power connection from the circuit board.
Step 3: If the button has residual electricity, press and hold the power button for 2-3 minutes to fully discharge it.
Step 4: Remove the panel case. Look for the motherboard RAM slots. They are located near the CPU in rectangular slots.
Step 5: Most motherboards provide 2 to 4 RAM slots. Check if any RAM is already installed.
Step 6: Remove the old memory kits. Small plastic clips will be at the end of the memory slot, allowing you to pull out the old RAM.
Step 7: These motherboard RAM slots are numbered. You have to install RAM in the order of A1 & B1 or A2 & B2. You can’t put RAM in a random slot.
Step 8: If you are confused about what slots to put RAM in then just find the first slot. You will find the second slot later, either by the number or the color of the slots.
Step 9: If you don’t understand, simply match the notch on your RAM with the notch on your slot. Different types of DDR rams have different notches, so even if you try to insert the ram into the wrong slot, it won’t fit.
Step 10: Once you have found the right slot, push the RAM stick downwards until you hear a voice like a click. The clip will automatically secure the RAM within the slot.
The same process is followed with other Ram sticks in their designated slot number.
Verify the Installed Ram
Once you have put the ram stick inside the slot and firmly fixed it, you will notice that both notch clips are perfectly securing the ram. Put back the case panel, reconnect all the cables, and turn on your PC. Go to “My PC” and check “properties.” You will see the details of the installed memory there.
How To Install SODIMM RAM?
RAM’s form factor varies, and so does its compatibility with different devices. The form factor that’s compatible with desktops may not be well-suited for compact devices like laptops. Therefore, for laptops, we have RAM with SO-DIMM slots. These are smaller and compact in size while giving the user full-fledged efficiency. Here is how to install RAM in laptop.
How to Install More RAM in Laptops?
Here is how to install RAM in laptops in seven simple steps:
- Turn off your laptop, and remove all cables and electrical devices if there are any connected.
- Let the residual power release by pressing and holding the power button for a few minutes.
- If your laptop has a removable battery, then remove it.
- Carefully look for the access panel, and unscrew the screw to access the panel where the RAM slot is located.
- Remove the existing RAM, then place the new RAM at a 45-degree angle.
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FAQ’s
Does RAM require activation after installation?
Nope, there is no manual way to activate the ram. Once you place your ram inside the PC, the Ram will be automatically detected. You can check the ram in “My PC” it will show the details of the ram currently inserted in your motherboard.
How to install two RAM sticks in 4 slots?
Here is how to install RAM in slots. The right order to put two rams in 4 slots is as follows:
- When you put the first stick in slot two (A2), put the other one in slot four (B2).
- If you go for the first slot (A1), you can pair it with the third slot (B1).
Is 32GB RAM overkill?
A RAM of 32 GB will be sufficient if you are going to run data-intensive tasks like video editing and 3d rendering of high-end graphic games.
Can DDR5 fit in DDR4?
Certainly Not. That’s because both have different RAM configurations and would not interchangeably fit in each other’s slot. A motherboard supporting DDR5 will not be compatible with DDR4.
How to install ddr4 ram?
Turn off the PC. Remove the access panel. Go to the RAM slot, place the one stick in slot A2 and the Second Stick in slot B2. You can also install DDR4 RAM in slots A1 and B1. However, A2 and B2 are considered better slots since they offer better airflow and keep the CPU cool.
