How to add RAM

Introduction

First, you need to know what kind of memory to buy. Generally, your computer manual will specify exactly which type of memory you need. It will tell you whether you need to buy SIMMs or DIMMs, the correct voltage type to look for, speed, ECC capability, etc., etc. At this writing, 128MB of the most common types of name-brand memory sell for about C$30 - 50 for SDRAM, or C$65-75 for Double Data Rate memory, known as DDR.

You should be sure that the RAM is rated at least as fast as your computer's Front Side Bus speed. If, for example, your computer is a Pentium III with a 100 MHz FSB, you would not want to buy PC66 SDRAM. However, it's really not necessary to know this, or other technical details. If your computer (or motherboard) has a manual, everything you and your dealer need to know will be presented right there. Motherboard manuals for virtually all types of computers are also available on the web. Try using a search engine to find this info, if you need it.

Fortunately, buying PC133 SDRAM doesn't cost more, and it is compatible with all but the earliest systems using SDRAM.

Newer computers may use other types of memory, such as DDR ("Double Data Rate") or RD-RAM ("RAMbus memory," also known as PC800). Further complicating the issue is the fact that there are different speeds of each type of memory. DDR memory, for example, is available in a PC1600 (also known as PC200), PC2100 (AKA PC266) PC2700 (DDR333) or the latest -- PC3200 (DDR400). In all cases, as you have probably noticed, the DDR value is derived by dividing by eight. It really is important to make sure you get the right type of memory. |Consult your owner's manual, or visit a website such as www.crucial.com to determine what your computer needs.

Then, you need to install it. Power down and remove the power cable from the back of the unit. Remove the side of the case. Avoid zapping the metal parts of the memory module with static (ground yourself), line up the notch on the memory module with the corresponding notch on the slot inside your computer, and, with the (usually) white handles at each end of the memory slot in the down position, insert the module and press evenly with both thumbs until it clicks into place and the handles snap up. Then, make sure the handles are clipped in the UP position, re-affix the power lead and power up. The system should automatically recognize the new memory. If it does not, immediately (!) power down and check the insertion of the memory again.

This should do the trick. Although PC Buyer's Guide cannot be held responsible for any problems you may encounter while attempting this procedure, we have added memory to hundreds of different computers, with a 100% success rate. It is the easiest upgrade you can do to your PC. If you've never added anything to your computer, this is an ideal way to get started.

Q&A

Q: Can I increase my RAM with 2 128 DIMMs ? I'm interested in upgrading my RAM from my current 64  to 128 or higher if my motherboard will support it. My machine is a Compaq Presario 5457, with a K6 AMD processor. Also I have two extra DIMM slots, other than my existing 64 RAM slot. Is 320, or, 384, too much RAM for my home desktop system? I ran a Compaq systems check, and it indicated that 128 was my max. Is this so?  Certainly would appreciate any help in this regard.

A: It is extremely likely that Compaq's system check is incorrect. If you are 100% sure that the memory chip you currently have installed are in fact a DIMM (SIMMs were common on K6 systems, but they were always mounted in pairs. So, if you have only one 64MB chip, it is definitely a DIMM), then I would say go ahead and get one DIMM, either 128 or 256MB in size. Although Windows 9x (or Me) doesn't really benefit much from memory amounts greater than 128MB, other operating systems such as Windows 2000 or the forthcoming Windows XP will show a marked improvement with configurations greater than 128MB. You should check your Compaq manual to make sure that you are buying the type of DIMM with the proper electrical characteristics. Most DIMMs today are 3.3 volt unbuffered, SDRAM, PC133 or (older) PC100.

The chances of one DIMM working better than two -- and/or two working better than three -- is slight, but tangible. To maximize your chance of success, and minimize your cost if you want 256MB more memory, then I'd recommend a single PC133 256MB DIMM. Your K6 doesn't need PC133, but this will maximize the chip's usefulness if you decide to get a new computer in the future.

Q: I've added a 64MB DIMM to my older Pentium system (a P133, in a motherboard with a VX chipset), but it's only recognized as 16MB. What's going on?

A: This is a known problem with some VX-based motherboards. Basically, you need a special type of "2CLK" DIMM. You would find that, if you put a standard "4CLK" 128MB DIMM in there, it would only show up as 32MB.