Is it possible to add RAM to a laptop. Replacing RAM in a laptop

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Depending on the laptop model, RAM is located in different places on the device. In some models, this is in a special compartment under bottom panel, in others - under the keyboard or motherboard.

You will learn the fundamental features of installing and increasing RAM by reading the article below.

Types and volumes RAM Asus laptops

• IN Asus laptops Until 2004, SO DIMM SDRAM was installed, operating at frequencies of 100 or 133 MHz.
• The 2005-2008 models used the SO DIMM DDR type with clock frequencies 266, 333 or 400 MHz.
• The 2006-2008 models have SO DIMM DDR2 memory installed, with frequencies of 533, 667 or 800 MHz.
• Models since 2009 have SO DIMM DDR3 memory installed, operating at 800, 1066, 1333 or 1600 MHz. Some new models have Micro DIMM DDR2.

Before purchasing additional RAM for your laptop, you must:

1. Determine what type of memory is already installed. Increasing the amount of RAM with boards different types and characteristics - unacceptable.

The added memory must match the existing memory in all respects. If you are installing an older model that is no longer available for sale, you will also need to replace the existing strip with the new type you are installing. In this case, you should check whether the motherboard supports the type being installed.

2. Each laptop model supports a certain amount of RAM, so you need to check the current characteristics through Bios or directly in Windows OS in “Computer Properties”. You can also go to the official Asus website and get acquainted with the characteristics of the model there. As a rule, the specification indicates the maximum amount of memory supported by the device.

Step-by-step instructions for increasing the amount of RAM in an Asus laptop

example with installed RAM in the compartment under the bottom panel

1. Before installation additional memory Disconnect the laptop from the network and battery.

2. Unscrew the screws on the back of the laptop and remove the cover.

For reference. Some models provide additional installation of memory sticks. In Fig. 1 free slot visible. If additional connectors are not provided, you must replace the existing memory stick with another, larger one.

3. Install the memory stick into the slot at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the motherboard and snap it into place, Fig. 2

example with RAM installed under the keyboard

1. To access the memory, you must carefully remove the keyboard. To do this, unscrew the screws or release the latches that secure it.

2. Then carefully lift up the keyboard. If it is inconvenient to work further, you can disconnect the cable from the motherboard and remove the keyboard completely.

IN modern world the amount of information processed increases exponentially every year. Consequently, the software being developed requires higher laptop performance to function properly. Just buy a new one every few years personal computer Not only is it impractical, but not everyone has enough financial resources for such purchases. An option to solve this problem is to improve (upgrade) the old PC. First of all, RAM is added and hard drive. Therefore, knowing how to increase laptop memory is simply necessary. This applies to both RAM (necessary for the operation of programs and systems) and hard drive, on which information is stored for a long time.

Increasing laptop RAM

As already mentioned, RAM is responsible for processing information while the laptop is operating. As programs become more sophisticated, so do the resources spent on normal work computer, more is required. However, before purchasing it, you need to see what type is installed on the laptop. Depending on the release date, the model will differ: DDR, DDR2, DDR3. Look this information This can be done in the documentation or in specialized programs (Aida, Everest). If these manipulations are too complex, then it is better to contact specialists. You can purchase the parts necessary to increase RAM in any stores computer equipment. Standard PCs have two memory slots. It is necessary to ensure that the operating frequency of the motherboard matches the operating frequency of the RAM.

How to install RAM yourself?

To install a RAM card yourself, you must:

• Turn off the power and remove battery from laptop
• There is a special cover on the bottom of the case. There is a drawing on it appearance RAM. Unscrew the fastening screw and remove it.
• Insert a free RAM card slot

That's enough simple operation for those who have encountered technology. For those who have self-doubt, it is better to contact specialized center for repair and maintenance of computer equipment.

Ways to increase laptop memory

There are several ways to help increase laptop memory. Here are some of them:

• Purchasing a larger hard drive
• Purchasing a portable hard drive.

Purchasing a larger hard drive is not difficult. But it is worth noting that you will have to reinstall the operating system, drivers and programs.

In the second case, there will be no need to reinstall the system, and there will also be no need to open the laptop. Therefore, the manufacturer's warranty will remain. However, the disadvantage of this method is the need to constantly carry with you extra hard disk.

If you still decide to install on a portable computer hard larger disk, you must perform the following operations:

• Turn off the power and remove the battery
• Remove the cover protecting the hard drive on the bottom of the laptop case
• If the drive is installed on a snap-in, then move it down from the connector and remove the hard drive. If the hard drive is well secured, then unscrew the mounting screws and remove the drive.
• We insert new hard disk. You need to make sure that the contacts of the PC and the drive are in close contact.
• Reassemble in reverse order

So, we looked at how to increase memory on a laptop. And you should already choose the most suitable option for yourself. After all, for normal and quiet work it is necessary that the computer works normally and does not freeze. Good luck!

Upgrade the random access memory (RAM) on your HP laptop to improve system performance. If you need to upgrade your RAM, you should determine the type of memory installed in your computer, the maximum memory capacity supported by the computer, and the memory capacity supported by the operating system.

Finding the product code that matches your HP laptop

Before ordering a new memory module, you must determine the product code corresponding to your laptop to search for documents and technical characteristics for your model. This code is usually found on a sticker located on the bottom of the laptop or on the box in which it comes. See How do I find my model number or product code? for information about additional options.

Note.

The generic product family name displayed next to the keyboard or on the bezel around the screen does not provide sufficient information to order replacement parts.

Search for technical specifications of installed memory (capacity, type, maximum supported capacity)

Refer to your notebook specifications or care and maintenance guide for information about installed memory. Go to the HP product support home page for your computer model, then select a category Product Details to go to the technical specifications document, or select User Guide to view the care and maintenance manual. Or enter the product code in the "Search" field in upper area this page, insert a space and enter the words technical specifications or (example: RQ877AS technical specifications).

In the care and maintenance instructions see section Memory For information about memory module specifications, memory module replacement part numbers, compatible processors and types of RAM, and the number of memory module slots.

In the laptop specifications document see section Memory for the following information.

Installed memory capacity Note: Check the current memory capacity installed on your computer, then proceed to the section in this document.

Maximum supported memory capacity Note: To determine how much memory you need to purchase, subtract the installed memory capacity from the maximum supported capacity. You can also purchase memory with the maximum available capacity and replace the installed memory. Then go to the section Determine the maximum memory capacity supported by the version of Windows you are using in this document. Use the smaller of these two numeric values ​​as the maximum memory capacity.

Memory type (including speed) Note: For each slot, HP recommends purchasing memory modules of the same type (same capacity, speed, and manufacturer). For best performance It is recommended to use memory modules with maximum value performance supported by the motherboard.

Attention!

Some motherboards do not support configuration of memory modules various manufacturers, or memory modules with different CAS or density values. To ensure memory compatibility, you should use SO-DIMMs with identical numbers details.

Determining where to install memory in a laptop

The memory compartment is located at the bottom of most HP and Compaq laptops. On some laptop models, the memory module compartment is located under the keyboard. In this case, HP recommends that you contact an HP Authorized Service Center for assistance ordering and replacing RAM.

Check out the section Removal and replacement V care and maintenance manual for the computer to get detailed instructions to determine the location of the memory module compartment. Care and Maintenance Guide is available in the category Product Details on home page HP product support website for your computer model. Or enter your product code in the Search box at the top of this page, insert a space, and enter the words care and maintenance manual(example: RQ877AS care and maintenance manual).

Determining the capacity of the added memory

Check the capacity of installed memory to determine the capacity of added memory while the computer is on or off.

Checking memory capacity with the computer turned on

To check the memory capacity with the computer turned on, use the HP Support Assistant app.

Checking memory capacity with the computer turned off

To check the memory capacity with the computer turned off, open the memory module bay.

Determine the maximum memory capacity supported by the version of Windows you are using

Determine the memory capacity supported by the version of Windows that is installed on your HP laptop.

• Maximum storage capacity for versions of Windows 10

  The minimum memory requirements in Windows 10 are 1 GB RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit).

  Maximum memory capacity for versions of Windows 8

  The minimum memory requirements in Windows 8 are 1 GB RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit).

  Windows 8 version	Maximum memory capacity for 32-bit versions (x86)	Maximum memory capacity for 64-bit versions (x64)
  Windows 8 Enterprise
  In Windows 8 Professional

• Maximum memory capacity for versions of Windows 7

  The minimum memory requirements in Windows 7 are 1 GB RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit). Maximum capacity memory depends on which edition of Windows is installed:

  Windows 7 version	Maximum Addressable Memory
  Starter (32-bit or 64-bit)
  Any 32-bit Windows version 7 (except Starter edition)	4 GB (about 3.3 GB available for use)
  Home Basic 64-bit
  Home Premium 64-bit
  Enterprise 64-bit
  Business, 64-bit
  Ultimate, 64-bit

Installing a new memory module

On most HP and Compaq laptops new module Memory is installed through the memory module bay at the bottom of the computer. Check out following instructions to make sure they are suitable for your computer. To find instructions for your computer model, see your user manual, or enter your computer model number and memory replacement in the search box at the top of this page (for example: RQ877AS memory replacement).

Note.

If you are not sure that you can complete the installation yourself, contact an HP Authorized Service Center for assistance. If a person or service not authorized by HP performs a RAM upgrade, the product warranty will not cover any damage that may occur. The user assumes all risks and liability for damage associated with memory upgrades.

Troubleshooting after installing new memory

If after adding memory the computer does not start or Windows does not open, the sound signals or the indicators next to the keys are flashing Caps Lock or Num Lock , try the following:

• Remove and reinstall the new memory module.

  Remove the new memory module and clean the groove in the slot in which it is installed. Perform a purge compressed air through a fine nozzle, using safety glasses, to remove dust or debris.

  Remove the new memory module and try to start the computer again. If the computer starts, check that the memory module you purchased is the correct type and compatible capacity. To receive additional information To select the appropriate memory to purchase, see the sections Finding technical specifications of installed memory And Determining the capacity of the added memory in this document. Please use the original memory module for reference.

  Whenever possible, use memory modules from the same manufacturer and product code.

  If after this the computer still does not restart, remove the replaceable modules memory, install source modules memory and check whether the computer can be used in its previous configuration.

Check memory types and requirements for HP computers

Find information about memory modules and requirements for use with HP computers.

SO-DIMM memory modules and requirements

IN laptops small dual-in-line memory modules (SO-DIMM) are used. They are smaller and thinner than other DIMMs, so are used when chassis space is limited. HP computer SO-DIMMs must meet the following requirements:

The number of pins on the SO-DIMM must match the connector type.

A 200-pin connector is required to install SO-DIMMs.

DDR2 SO-DIMMs are not compatible with modules DDR memory 1 DIMM and DDR2 DIMM.

DDR3 SO-DIMMs are not compatible with DDR1 or DDR2 modules and require a 204-pin connector.

If your computer uses a 533 MHz or 667 MHz system bus, use PC2-4200 memory (DDR2 DIMM 533).

Memory DIMMs and requirements

Dual in-line memory modules (DIMMs) are small printed circuit boards, on which groups of memory chips are located. They are used on most desktop computers. DIMMs have a wider connection path with two rows of pins on each side, providing more fast transfer data compared to single-in-line memory modules (SIMMs). DIMMs can be single-sided or double-sided. DIMMs do not need to be added in pairs and can be used with other DIMMs with the same pin count. For example, a 1 GB DIMM can be installed next to a 2 GB DIMM on the motherboard.

Note.

The operating speed of DIMM modules cannot be higher than the system bus frequency. If several DIMMs with different operating frequencies are installed, then the operating frequency of all installed memory will be equal to operating frequency DIMM module with the lowest speed.

HP computer DIMMs must meet the following requirements:

The number of pins on the DIMM must match the socket type.

For memory DDR requires a 184-pin connector and operating voltage 2.5 V.

Memory DDR2 is not compatible with DDR1 memory and requires a 240-pin connector as well as an operating voltage of 1.8V.

Memory DDR3 provides approximately twice the bandwidth of DDR2.

Modules DDR3 not compatible with DDR1 or DDR2 memory.

To install modules DDR3 The DIMM requires a 240-pin socket and an operating voltage of 1.5 V. The socket for DDR3 memory is designed differently than for DDR2 or DAR. Do not attempt to install a DDR3 memory module on a motherboard designed for DAR or DDR2. Failure to do so may cause permanent damage to the motherboard and DIMMs.

SCRAM (synchronous dynamic memory random access): Use SCRAM type DAR only if the computer comes with DDR-SDRAM modules.

RIMM Memory Modules and Requirements

DDR3 memory supports 3 DIMMs in triple channel mode. The same size and type of memory must be installed in the appropriate DIMM sockets for Channels A, B, and C. Memory slots are typically color coded to make it easier to understand their purpose.

Purchasing memory for upgrading

HP recommends that you purchase memory modules directly from HP retail outlets, authorized HP dealers, or reputable suppliers computer components, such as Crucial .

Many HP partnered computer component suppliers can help you choose suitable memory for your computer model. Before purchasing memory modules, you need to know how much memory is needed and what type of memory is compatible with your computer.

The lack of RAM causes a lot of inconvenience to users, since with its small amount it becomes impossible to work with some resource-intensive programs or play modern games. computer games, very demanding system resources, watch video high resolution etc. This is where the problem arises of how to increase the RAM to such a size that the system does not slow down or freeze. There are several basic methods for this, including using removable drives in the form of regular flash drives or memory cards used in smartphones and tablets.

RAM: what is it and how does it work?

Before dealing with issues of increasing the amount of RAM, you should understand what it is, how it functions and what tasks are assigned to it.

Random access memory (RAM, RAM, random access memory, “RAM”) is designed to store data from all processes (system and user) active at a certain point in time. It is link between established software and the central processor, but not directly, but through the system bus and caching.

Without delving into the jungle of computer terminology, RAM memory can most simply be described as follows: at the moment a program or process starts, the main components are loaded into RAM and stored there until the program ends. Only after loading is the commands redirected to the central processor, which processes them. Thus, RAM memory is a kind of intermediate data exchange buffer, without which no system can function. The larger the amount of RAM, the more components can be loaded and submitted for processing.

How to increase RAM by increasing the number of sticks

Let’s leave aside the issue of increasing memory through the use of removable devices for now, and consider standard methods, allowing you to increase system performance, which in some cases can be very useful.

In stationary PCs, the issue of increasing RAM is solved by simply replacing or adding memory sticks by inserting them into the appropriate slots on motherboard. But it is advisable to use sticks of the same type and generation (SDRAM, DDR, etc.) and take into account many additional factors.

Changing the paging file size

Another solution to the question of how to increase RAM by using additional funds without physical change volume is to set larger size virtual memory, which is responsible for the so-called paging file (pagefile.sys), which is a space reserved on the hard drive where cached data is written when the RAM limit is exceeded. Of course, the speed of access hard drive will be much less than directly to RAM, but it will be suitable as an option.

To do this, use the section in computer properties additional settings, where the tab is selected additional parameters, and through the button in the performance section you go to current settings. On the Advanced tab, you can change the virtual memory size by setting eigenvalue greater than the recommended default setting. However, you shouldn't get carried away. If the size is too high, the system will start accessing the pagefile.sys file first, and not the RAM, which will only lead to the opposite effect.

Changing timing in BIOS settings

If you look at the problem of how to increase RAM on a laptop where there is no way to install additional strips memory, you can use BIOS settings(although this mostly concerns increasing the amount of video memory).

In the additional settings section, you need to find the Shared Memory line and change the DRAM Read Timing parameter (the lower the value is set, the higher the system performance).

Increasing RAM using a flash drive: prerequisites

Finally, let's look at how to increase RAM on your computer using a flash drive. This is done quite simply, but several initial conditions must be met.

For these procedures, you will need a removable drive (flash drive or memory card) with a capacity of at least 1 GB and no more than 32 GB with a write speed of 1.75 MB/sec (with 512 KB blocks) and a read speed of 2.5 MB/sec (with the same block size). Free space must be at least 256 MB, although this parameter can be neglected, since in any case preparatory stage The media will be formatted (recommended). The total memory size of simultaneously connected devices cannot exceed 256 GB. And it is advisable to use devices that support USB standard 3.0, since in this case the data transfer speed will be much higher than through ports with USB interface 2.0.

Where to start?

Now directly about solving the problem of how to increase RAM on a computer. Let's take Windows 7 as an example, although in all other modifications the actions will not be different.

Many people have probably noticed that after inserting the device into the appropriate port and with the drive auto-detection mode enabled, a window appears on the screen with a choice of action. But few people pay attention to the fact that at the very bottom of the window there is a system acceleration line. This is exactly what you need. We click on it and for now we leave aside the question of how to increase RAM on a laptop or desktop terminal, since we need to perform several preliminary steps.

ReadyBoost Technology

To increase RAM will be used ReadyBoost technology, which is that physical flash memory can be used as virtual memory. In other words, on removable device it simply creates another swap file.

For operating systems based on x64 architecture, the size of the used physical space cannot exceed 32 GB, for x86 (32 bit) systems - 4 GB. In addition, according to the recommendations of Microsoft specialists, the ratio of drive memory to stationary RAM can range from 1:1 to 2.5:1. At the same time, the maximum performance gain is observed when reading smaller blocks with a size of 4 KB (compared to accessing hard drives performance increase is approximately 10 times), but when reading large blocks the effect is almost unnoticeable.

Formatting media

So, how to increase RAM to required by the user size? First, format the media by selecting the appropriate partition from the right-click menu on the device.

It is advisable to produce full formatting with choice file system NTFS without changing the default cluster size (usually the same 512 KB). We confirm the removal of all information and wait for the process to complete.

Using media and specifying the size of allocated memory

Now we right-click on the formatted media in the usual “Explorer” and select the properties section.

In the new window, go to the ReadyBoost tab and activate the use permission line of this device for the specified technology (the size will be set automatically, using the maximum possible space). If a smaller volume is needed, the usage line just below is activated, and the size is indicated manually. But in general, it is recommended to use the maximum.

After this, in the same “Explorer” you can see that the device is almost completely full, and only 100 MB of space remains free. That's how it should be. The filled space will be used for caching files. Agree, the increase is significant.

Increasing memory in Android systems

Now a few words about how to increase RAM on Android. You don't need to do anything physically. In the very simple case you can simply stop unused ones in at the moment applications running in background. However, this will have no effect, since they will start again. In this case, it is better to turn to optimizer programs that allow you not only to unload unnecessary processes from RAM, but also control autorun. In this case, it is advisable to have root rights with the ability to remove built-in applets of the system itself.

But this method rather looks like self-deception. Therefore, the problem of how to increase RAM on Android can be solved using utilities like RAM Manager (for older devices with version 2.1 systems), SWAPit RAM EXPANDER, Swapper 2, etc. Two latest programs capable of creating own files swap similar to Windows systems and save cached data either in internal memory devices, or on SD cards (you can specify the location of the swap file manually). In addition, they still have quite a lot additional tools, up to manual control speed of the entire system.

Brief conclusions

If we draw conclusions from all of the above, it is worth noting that the most effective method Increasing RAM is still a matter of replacing or adding sticks. However, if such an opportunity is simply physically absent (for example, on laptops or netbooks), the option of using removable drives seems to be the most preferable. In this case, you don’t even have to use the system virtual memory, the file of which is stored on the HDD, since access to the hard drive has a lower speed. But, as is already clear, you need to take into account some of the requirements for flash drives and removable cards memory. Without this, you can’t even count on the effect of increasing RAM. And of course, do not forget to insert a flash drive or card into the appropriate port or card reader before turning on your computer or laptop, since inserting media will not work in a running system.

A laptop can easily work for several years with virtually no failures, but its main disadvantage is that it practically complete absence opportunities to improve productivity. However, one of the parameters of a laptop computer that can be changed relatively easily is the amount of RAM. But before that, I recommend that you try getting rid of garbage.

Any user can easily increase the RAM of a laptop, and in this issue we will look at how to do this.

You can watch a Video on how to increase RAM on a laptop or study the article below.

When does it make sense to increase RAM?

RAM- one of important parameters any computer. Currently standard programs They spend a lot more RAM than they did a few years ago. This is due to the fact that it has become much more accessible, and most computers now have 8, 16, 32 or 64 GB of RAM installed out of the box.

If your laptop is quite old, but has been updated to the more demanding Windows 10 operating system, or uses resource-intensive applications, it may make sense to increase the amount of RAM in it.

This is advisable when laptop computer installed good processor and a video card, and the performance problems that arise are related precisely to the lack of RAM.

There are several “symptoms” that indicate that the computer does not have enough RAM to perform the assigned tasks:

• If after next update operating system, the computer began to cope with assigned tasks much more slowly, this suggests that standard applications seriously consume RAM, and there is not enough of it;
• Also, if a message appears about low memory while the computer is running;
• When a number of programs or games simply do not start, but according to other characteristics the computer is suitable for them.

Important: Remember that if your laptop has a 32-bit operating system, it can only run with a maximum of 4GB of RAM.

Before you start replacing RAM, you need to decide what ports are in the laptop for its installation, as well as how many there are in total.

Please note: Not all RAM slots in a laptop are always occupied. Often there are several free slots, so new RAM can be added to the existing one.

In the operating room Windows system 10 appeared handy tool right in “Task Manager”, which allows you to see what kind of RAM is used in the laptop, as well as how many slots are occupied.

To do this, click Ctrl+Alt+Del and go to “Task Manager”, then select the tab at the top "Performance" and switch in the left column to the column "Memory".

After this, it will become clear how much RAM is now in the laptop, what kind of memory it is, how many memory slots there are, and also at what speed it operates. If your computer has not been updated to Windows 10, there are other ways to find out information about RAM without disassembling the device case.