While replacing and upgrading computer memory is very easy, purchasing it can be a bit confusing. There are several different types on the market and each computer will have limitations due to hardware and software that must be considered. Computer memory, fortunately, is very inexpensive and upgrading one’s computer in this way is one of the most cost-effective means of extending the life of a PC. Without the proper knowledge of what one is doing, however, it’s likely that one will be looking at a computer that will simply fail to boot rather than at a fast new machine.
Computer memory comes in different sizes, configurations and speeds. One must make sure, on a PC, that all of these factors match before installing RAM in a computer. The chips must be of all the same quantity of memory; 1GB for instance. If there are mixed quantities on the board, the computer will not function correctly. This may mean simply not using the entirety of the RAM available or it may mean not booting at all. One can remove their existing RAM if they’re simply adding more computer memory to make sure that they purchase the right parts.
When upgrading, one will need more detailed information regarding their PC. Every motherboard will have a limitation on how much memory it can accommodate. Beyond that number, the memory is wasted. This information will usually be found in one’s documentation or on the website of the computer’s manufacturer. Be absolutely sure that one knows this information before purchasing any computer memory. One’s operating system will also place a limit on the amount of computer memory that can be used. For Widows XP, this limit is 3.25GB. If one installs 4GB on an XP computer, the system information will still only show 3.24GB available.
Make sure the type of RAM is the same. Oftentimes, there are differences in the way that the components are manufactured that prevent the wrong computer memory from being installed in a socket. When installing RAM, never force the board. It should slide and click into place. If not, there may well be a tab on the component that is preventing it from fitting to make certain that it isn’t installed in a machine that cannot accommodate that type of memory. Computer memory vendors oftentimes have online interfaces that help one to purchase the right parts for their computer.