What does maximum memory mean? Once again about Windows and four gigabytes

Good afternoon.

Today's article is devoted to RAM, or rather its quantity on our computers (RAM is often abbreviated as RAM). RAM plays a big role in the operation of a computer; if there is not enough memory, the PC begins to slow down, games and applications open reluctantly, the picture on the monitor begins to “twitch,” and the load on the hard drive increases. In the article we will focus on issues related to memory: its types, how much memory is needed, what it affects.

How to find out the amount of RAM?

1) The easiest way to do this is to go to “my computer” and right-click anywhere in the window. Next, select “properties” in the explorer context menu. You can also open the control panel and enter “system” in the search bar. See screenshot below.

The amount of RAM is indicated next to the performance index, under the processor information.

4GB- amount of RAM. The more, the better. But do not forget that if the processor in the system is not so powerful, then there is no point in installing a large amount of RAM. In general, sticks can be of completely different sizes: from 1GB to 32 or more. See below for volume.

1600Mhz PC3-12800- Operating frequency (bandwidth). This table will help you understand this indicator:

As can be seen from the table, the throughput of such RAM is 12800 MB/s. Not the fastest today, but as practice shows, the amount of memory is much more important for the speed of a computer.

The amount of RAM on the computer

1 GB - 2 GB

Today, this amount of RAM can only be used on office computers: for editing documents, browsing the Internet, and mail. It is, of course, possible to run games with this amount of RAM, but only the simplest ones.

By the way, with this volume you can install Windows 7, it will work fine. True, if you open five documents, the system may begin to “think”: it will not react so sharply and zealously to your commands, the picture on the screen may begin to “twitch” (especially for games).

Also, if there is a lack of RAM, the computer will use: part of the information from RAM, which is not currently in use, will be written to the hard drive, and then, as necessary, read from it. Obviously, in this state of affairs there will be an increased load on the hard drive, and this can also greatly affect the speed of the user’s work.

4 GB

The most popular amount of RAM lately. Many modern PCs and laptops running Windows 7/8 have 4 GB of memory. This volume is enough for normal work with office applications, it will allow you to run almost all modern games (even if not at maximum settings), and watch HD video.

8 GB

This amount of memory is becoming more and more popular every day. It allows you to open dozens of applications, while the computer behaves very quickly. In addition, with this amount of memory you can run many modern games at high settings.

However, it is worth noting immediately. That this amount of memory will be justified if you have a powerful processor installed in your system: Core i7 or Phenom II X4. Then he will be able to use the memory to its full potential - and there will be no need to use the swap file at all, thereby increasing the speed of operation significantly. In addition, the load on the hard drive is reduced and energy consumption is reduced (relevant for a laptop).

By the way, the opposite rule also applies here: if you have a budget processor, then there is no point in installing 8 GB of memory. The processor will simply process a certain amount of RAM, say 3-4 GB, and the rest of the memory will add absolutely no speed to your computer.

How much memory can a 32 bit operating system use?

First, a little theory.
The simplest element of information is a bit. It is the minimum unit of information and can take the value 0 or 1. It is followed by a byte, it consists of 8 bits. Since a bit can take 2 values, there are 2 8 = 256 byte values ​​in total.

Now let's look at memory addressing. Any computer has random access memory (RAM) - the address space needed to store data currently in use. To obtain information from RAM, the processor must first select the address of the desired bit, which is stored in one of the memory chips, and only then read it. This process is called memory addressing. One of the properties of computer architecture is the number of bits used when addressing memory.

A 32-bit OS uses 2 32 bits to address memory, which is 4294967296 bits or 4 Gigabytes (GB). This means that the maximum amount of memory that a 32-bit operating system can access is 4 GB. However, we will not be able to fully use even this volume, since the operating system and device components require dedicated address space within the first 32 bits (4 GB) of RAM. For example, a video card with 512 MB of memory will require synchronization of this memory with RAM, which will reduce the available capacity by 512 MB.

Thus, the total amount of memory available in a 32-bit Windows OS is usually 3.25-3.75 GB, depending on the hardware used.

Some versions of Windows support a feature called Physical Address Extension (PAE), allowing the use of more than 4 GB of memory thanks to special redirection technology. This technology allows the processor to work not with 32-bit, but with 36-bit addressing, theoretically expanding the addresses available to it to 2 36 = 68719476736 bytes (64 GB). In this case, the address space itself remains 32-bit, that is, equal to 4 GB, but due to the changed mapping of physical memory to it, it becomes possible to use more of it.

According to official information from Microsoft, PAE mode can be used on the following 32-bit operating systems:

• Microsoft Windows Server 2000 Enterprise/Datacenter Edition
• Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Enterprise/Datacenter Edition
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 Enterprise/Datacenter Edition

In Server 2008, PAE is enabled by default if DEP (Data Execution Prevention) technology is enabled on the server at the hardware level, or the server has the ability to hot-add memory. Otherwise, PAE must be forcibly enabled using BCDEdit, with the following command:

BCDEdit /set [(ID)] pae ForceEnabled

To enable PAE in Server 2000\2003, you must specify the key in the Boot.ini file /PAE. Here is an example Boot.ini file containing the PAE key:

timeout=30
default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(2)\WINDOWS
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(2)\WINDOWS=″Windows Server 2003, Enterprise″ /fastdetect /PAE

It is worth noting that the ability to use PAE mode for client operating systems was implemented in the second service pack for Windows XP. However, during testing it turned out that a large number of failures occur when using this mode. The fact is that the drivers of some devices, mainly such as audio and video, are hard-coded to work with memory addresses within 4GB. They truncate all addresses above this amount, which leads to corruption of the memory contents with all the attendant consequences. Since, as a rule, servers do not use such devices, such problems did not arise with server systems.

Due to the identified shortcomings, it was decided to remove from 32-bit client systems the ability to work with memory over 4GB, although this is theoretically possible. Therefore, although this technology is present in client operating systems of the Windows family, it is not activated at the kernel level, and an attempt to use it will lead to nothing.

To summarize, I will say that if there is a need for more than 4GB of memory, then the best option is to use a 64-bit OS, because it limits the memory size to 192 GB for desktop and 2 TB for server OS.

(RAM, random access memory) is one of the most important components of a computer. It is she who decides whether your PC can handle a new game or whether it is better to immediately abandon this crazy idea. Like every computer component, RAM has its own classification and parameters. We will now try to understand its types and types.

What is RAM

Essentially, RAM is an “intermediary” between the hard drive and the processor. To ensure speed, those processes and tasks that the CPU needs to process at the moment are put into RAM. This is exactly what RAM does. The maximum RAM that can be installed on a computer will cope with these tasks many times faster.

The OP has its own characteristics. Bus frequency, volume, power consumption and much more. We will discuss all these parameters below. For now, let's move on to the types of RAM.

Types of RAM

Since time immemorial, there were such types of RAM as SIMM and DIMM. There is no point in dwelling on them now, since they have not been produced for a long time, and it has become impossible to find them. Let's start right away with DDR. The very first DDR memory was released back in 2001. It could not boast of high productivity and volume. The maximum operating frequency of the first DDR was 133 MHz. The result was not very “fast” RAM. The maximum RAM at that time was about 2 GB per stick.

With the development of technology, a new type of “RAM” has appeared. They called it DDR2. The main difference from conventional DDR was the operating frequency. Now it was 1066 MHz. A very nice performance boost. And a couple of years later, DDR3 was released - the most popular type of RAM at present. 2400 MHz is exactly the maximum frequency of RAM. There was no processor capable of supporting such frequencies at that time. Therefore, Intel and AMD had to urgently release something capable of working with such RAM.

Maximum volume

The amount of RAM plays an important role in its performance. The higher the volume of the “bar”, the more information it can accommodate. Nowadays the size of RAM is measured in gigabytes. It plays a decisive role in whether the computer can handle powerful software packages and games. But there are volume limitations on the part of the system. As an example, let's take the OS from Microsoft Windows 7. The maximum RAM that this system can work with should be 16 GB and no more. Windows 10, for example, is capable of working correctly with 128 GB of RAM. It is also worth noting that 32-bit operating systems are not capable of interacting with more than 3 GB of RAM. If your RAM is 4 GB or more, then a 64-bit OS is definitely recommended for you.

Nowadays, the optimal amount of RAM for an average computer can be called 8-16 GB. However, if you need a powerful gaming machine, then you can’t do without 32 GB of RAM. If you decide to do video editing, then you need a very large RAM. The maximum RAM should be from 32 to 128 GB. Please note that this is quite an expensive pleasure.

As for laptops, it is not possible to increase the amount of RAM indefinitely. Typically, laptops and netbooks are equipped with only two slots for RAM. Therefore, increasing the RAM is quite difficult for them. In many ways, the maximum volume depends on the motherboard and processor used to assemble the laptop. Typically, motherboards are designed for 8-16 GB of RAM and there is no way to increase this limit.

RAM frequency

DDR3 RAM modules are capable of operating at frequencies of 1333-2100 MHz. To choose the best option for your computer, you need to know what frequencies are supported by the motherboard and processor. Most motherboards easily operate at frequencies of 1333-1600 MHz. If you choose a frequency of 2100 MHz, the performance increase will not be particularly noticeable given the extremely high price of the RAM and the motherboard that supports these frequencies. This is an option for really crazy gamers.

Among inexperienced users, the question often arises: “how to find out the maximum RAM.” There is an excellent program called AIDA 64. It will provide complete information about the computer's operating system. There will be a maximum frequency, volume, and type. The program provides equally comprehensive information about other computer components. Definitely, everyone should have such a product. Then many questions will disappear by themselves.

Conclusion

Now we know what RAM is, maximum RAM and its frequency. You can safely choose the OP for your computer yourself. Basic knowledge is enough to equip your PC with the most advanced RAM.

RAM is a component of a computer. The most important characteristic is measured in gigabytes: the more, the better. Other characteristics are much less important - timings and number of strips, dual-channel... This device has many other names:

• "brain"
• memory
• RAM
• RAM (random access memory)
• SDRAM

What does RAM look like?

This article explains in detail the purpose of RAM, how to install it yourself (no more difficult than replacing a light bulb!), and the subtleties of choice. The main thing: after reading a couple of pages of this text, an inexperienced user will easily understand the marketing mantras about megahertz frequencies and will know whether another gigabyte of memory will be useful, or whether the seller is selling an unnecessary product.

What RAM does: a clear explanation

Temporarily stores operational information. Not the one needed to save movies with music, but the one used by Windows itself, programs, games, etc. Such information is stored only when the PC is turned on. The computer turns on, the system starts - and during startup, programs and modules are launched that write the necessary data from the HDD to RAM. So that the computer can “communicate” with this data very quickly - i.e. operate promptly(hence the term “operative”).

In short, this is ultra-fast memory, which is 300 times faster than a hard drive. The quick response of a running program (the instantaneous appearance of a menu when pressing the right mouse button, for example) is a merit of high RAM speeds.

Analogue RAM in the real world - something that is stored in the human brain for a short time. This data is ready for brain processing at any second. We can compare with RAM in the brain, for example, information that we remember for a short time while performing some kind of work. For example, we consider 9 + 3 = 1 and 2 in our minds... Or another example, the waiter remembers what a table was ordered for him - he will most likely forget this information in a couple of hours, replacing it with another. Of course, comparing human memory and computer memory is not very correct, because the brain works differently and everything that gets into the RAM can be remembered and end up in long-term memory (in the HDD), which cannot be the case with a computer... With the HDD, you can compare long-term memory, for example, we read a book and remember something. But access to such data is sometimes not fast, because in order to remember, you need to take a book from the shelf and refresh your memory - such memory can be compared to the hard drive memory in a computer - not fast, but fundamental.

Finally, there are also very lightning-fast types of memory. In a computer, this is the processor cache, which is tightly built into the CPU, and in the human head - something that has been firmly and firmly memorized since the school desk: the multiplication table, “live and write with the letter i”, “twice two”, etc. p.

How many GB of RAM do you need?

More the better? Yes, but only up to a certain limit. Modern computers (from 2012-14) are extremely rarely equipped with one gigabyte of RAM - this is already the day before yesterday and a museum exhibit, and not a real product in 2017.

2 gigabytes RAM is the typical capacity of frankly budget machines. Perhaps this is enough - but it is extremely uncomfortable in terms of speed and responsiveness even with the browser, Word, Skype and antivirus open. No, in 2017 two gigabytes are incredibly small - but somehow you can live with them.

4 gigabytes RAM is a certain “threshold” value of RAM capacity. Both fairly budget laptop models and more or less expensive analogues are equipped with four gigabytes. Enough? Frankly, yes; but there is no reserve. The “gluttony” of programs and the operating system itself is capable of loading all 4 gigabytes to capacity, although not always.

8 gigabytes DDR is a zone of comfort and tranquility. Rarely, very rarely, a computer will take up at least 5-6 gigabytes of RAM (this is in 2016, but in 2018 code appetites will be able to fill up a not so huge amount!).

16, 32 (or 128!) gigabytes RAM is unlikely to be needed by the average user - this is already out of space. What's the use of a multi-ton truck bed when the car can't carry anything larger than a washing machine? In 2017, it’s hardly worth buying extra gigabytes of RAM just to “have it.”

The table lists the main “eaters” of RAM. The numbers are only approximate - for some Windows takes more megabytes, for others less. Tabs with websites may contain a short page without pictures, or they may contain monstrous panels of social networks with all contacts, blinkers and reminders. Games require a lot, but before starting them it is customary to disable unnecessary browsers and text documents.

So, the table: who “eats” how much RAM. Typical RAM consumption by modern programs. 2016-2017; further - only more.

So how much RAM does Windows 7 need, for example? Try not to buy computers with 2 gigabytes on board - this is frankly not enough. 4 gigabytes is just good, 8 is super. More is not worth it, as a rule. 16 gigabytes and above are needed for:

• advanced “computer geeks”, for whom a completely standard task is to run 2-3 virtual systems in Windows;
• avid gamers with ultra-high resolution monitors and expensive video cards;
• programmers with the need to debug and test desktop programs;
• video designers and their photo colleagues - and even then not always;
• simply because you want more than others. No focus on practicality.

Types of RAM, frequency and other characteristics

18-20 years have passed since the introduction of the first DDR standard. Several generations of computers have changed, their performance has increased significantly. At any given time, no more than two generations of memory are relevant. In 2017, this is the rapidly aging DDR3, which reigned on the market for 7 years, and the already familiar DDR4. If you buy a new computer, then most likely it will be equipped with the fourth generation of RAM. If we are talking about upgrading an old one (5-8 years ago), then DDR3 works inside. The generations are not compatible with each other: it is physically impossible to insert a DDR4 die into the connector from the “three”, and vice versa.

RAM for laptops differs from regular “desktop” memory in physical dimensions. Laptop RAM is half the length of standard RAM. Frequencies, volume and generation of DDR correspond to each other for laptops and PCs. True, memory for laptops is divided into 2 more subcategories that are physically incompatible with each other:

• standardSO-DIMM(the SO prefix indicates the laptop RAM size) – the most common option;
• low power memory SO-DDR3L(or just DDR3L, or the newest DDR4L): most often found in inexpensive laptop models.

The second important characteristic of RAM after capacity is frequency. The more, the better, in principle - but DDR4 at 2100 MHz is just a penny slower than DDR4 at 2800 MHz. The difference is almost 1-2 percent, and even then only in some applications. You should not overpay for megahertz - maybe 2-3 dollars. There are also other characteristics of memory: delays, also known as timings. The lower the timings, the faster the memory works (that’s right - timing 10 is preferable to 12). You certainly shouldn’t rely on this characteristic, although in the DDR/DDR2 era 15 years ago timings mattered more than they do today. However, this is already history.

RAM prices: let's look at the offers

Since about 2010, RAM has been obscenely cheap compared to older times. How much exactly? We apologize for the prices in dollars, but... they are not called “evergreen” for nothing. The prices given are not the cheapest, according to the Bayon.ru online store - but with a margin.

Table: cost of RAM (for laptop and PC), 2017. DDR3 and DDR4 models are presented, as well as “laptop” SO-DIMM form factors.

Is it worth upgrading (adding) RAM?

Definitely yes, if the amount of RAM is less than 2-3 gigabytes: the performance increase will be visible to the naked eye. The performance “breaking point” is somewhere between 2 and 4 GB of RAM. Less RAM means significantly less speed. More - everything works as it should, in a word - “flies”.

More likely yes than no, if the available volume is 4 gigabytes. The speed of the computer is unlikely to increase, but there will be significantly fewer freezes and lags. Not a bad investment.

There is no need if there are already 6-8 gigabytes “on board”.

There is no need if the point of updates is to buy DDR with a higher clock frequency. The benefit from such an upgrade, if not zero, tends to be so.

How to add RAM to a computer? What about a laptop? DIY RAM upgrade

PC desktops are larger “creations”. Inside the case you can place at least 10 laptops (in size!). There are a lot of slots and connectors on desktop motherboards, unlike ultra-compact laptops, where every millimeter is saved. The typical number of slots in a computer for RAM is 2 or 4. As a rule, only 1-2 of them are occupied. Adding a RAM stick to an already working one is a matter of a couple of minutes. It is enough to turn off the computer, open the system unit and insert the DDR stick into the appropriate connector. No tools or even a screwdriver are needed.

The main requirement is that the RAM must be of the appropriate generation. There is no way to fit modern DDR4 into a DDR3 slot: they even have different sizes. But the volume of the additional bar can be any. The frequency can also be any, but at different frequencies of several RAM sticks, the computer runs on the smallest of them.

On laptops everything is a little more complicated. They have three types of RAM slots:

1. Dual slot configurations: as a rule, RAM is already inserted into 2 connectors. In this case, you should buy one more capacious module and replace the existing one with a new one. Classics of the genre: 4 GB of RAM, 2 sticks of 2 GB each. There are no other connectors. You will have to buy a 4 GB memory module (or 8 GB, if necessary), and insert it in place of the old one. As a result, we get 6 GB of RAM. By the way, the old module can be sold.

Less commonly, there are two slots, one of which is occupied and the other is free. Everything is perfectly simple: we buy additional RAM of any volume, insert it into an empty slot. For example, there were 4 GB (one stick), we buy another 4 GB in one stick, insert... the result is 8 GB.

1. Single-slot configurations(usually inexpensive laptop models). There is only one slot, and it, of course, is already filled with RAM. The only option is to remove the old module and install a new one with a larger volume.
2. Laptops with soldered RAM. An upgrade is almost impossible: unsoldering the old module and re-soldering the new one is a non-trivial and very risky task. However, the RAM is permanently soldered only in inexpensive machines, and this does not happen too often.

How to find out the number of slots and type of memory in a laptop or computer

Any diagnostic program like CPU-Z will do. Download, install, look in the memory section.

Basic information about RAM: how many GB, etc., is located in the Memory tab. The following characteristics are immediately visible:

• Memory type: DDR3
• RAM capacity: 6 GB
• Number of channels: 2 (Dual)
• Less interesting indicators are timings and frequency: 665.1 MHz (the DDR standard implies two-way exchange of information with memory, so the true frequency is 1333 MHz).

The following conclusions can be drawn: the computer (in this case, a laptop) clearly has 2 slots, both of which are occupied. This is indicated by the two-channel operating mode, which is possible only if there is an even number of strips. Another conclusion is a clearly non-standard configuration: 4+2 GB of RAM. Typically, manufacturers set the amount of RAM that is a multiple of 2: 2, 4, 8, or 16 gigabytes. This means that the owner has already upgraded the RAM.

Much more detailed information is described in the next tab of the CPU-Z utility: SPD (brain speed). In the upper left part of the window you can actually see that there are 2 slots, both of them are occupied. The first connector houses a 2 gig (2048 MB) chip with a frequency of 667 (1333 MHz). The second has 4 gigabytes (4096 MB) with the same frequency of 1333.

A couple of information bonuses: the production date of one of the RAMs is visible (week 9 of 2011), and the manufacturers of both sticks: Nanya and PNY.

How can you upgrade the RAM in the example above? 6 gigabytes is quite sufficient volume for 2016, but if you have a strong desire, you can buy one 4 GB DDR3 stick (price - about 26 dollars), and insert it instead of the old 2 GB one (by the way, you can sell it for 5 dollars). 8). The result will be 8 gigabytes of RAM.

Manufacturers of RAM: which one is better. And – final tips

Whoever produces RAM: the processor giant AMD, Samsung and LG, and numerous Kingston, Corsair, etc. In the most numerous segment of RAM there is really no difference between manufacturers. They all produce reliable and fast DDR, which is capable of some overclocking.

You should think about the manufacturer only in cases where more serious overclocking, special requirements for reliability, and, perhaps, for the artistic beauty of RAM are required. That's right, more expensive models are available with optional, but amazingly cute radiators for cooling the modules.

And one more thing. RAM is a remarkably reliable thing. It is quite safe to pick it up, “used” - most likely, it will work for many more years, with the same characteristics and energy consumption.

RAM is one of the main components of stable computer operation. Without it, the PC is impossible to operate, and without enough RAM, the user will not be able to run some programs. Let's look at how RAM works, how to increase the amount of RAM and other points.

First, let's figure out what reducing RAM or RAM means. In Russian it sounds like “Random Access Memory”, and in English it sounds like “Random Access Memory”. The peculiarity of the part lies in the fact that it only works when the computer is turned on. RAM stores data processed by the processor and executable codes.

The operating principle of RAM is as follows:

1. Each memory cell has its own row and column.
2. When working, the computer sends a signal to one of the lines.
3. Due to the electrical signal, the transistor opens.
4. The sent charge from the capacitor goes into one of the available columns, to which the sensitive amplifier is connected.
5. The flow supplied by the discharged capacitor is registered through an amplifier, after which the required command is issued.

Due to the fact that RAM operates on semiconductors, it cannot store information in the absence of current.

How to increase RAM in a computer and laptop?

Briefly described, there are several ways to increase the amount of RAM. The main one is adding new brackets to the motherboard. Alternatively, you can change the paging file data. Let's look at each method in more detail.

Increasing capacity using memory modules

For stable operation, modern computers need at least 2 GB of RAM, depending on the installed operating system. For example, the same amount is required for Windows 10 64 bit. The main way to increase this indicator is to add or replace RAM sticks.

It is important to understand that the module must fit a computer or laptop. For example, PCs with older processors do not support 1666 MHz RAM. The same goes for motherboards - most older models cannot handle parts with more than 4 GB of memory.

In order not to make a mistake, the PC owner needs to know the model name of the motherboard and processor.

To check the processor you need to perform slightly different steps:

This way you can check the compatibility of the RAM with other PC parts.

How to determine the type of RAM

Before purchasing new devices, it is also important to know their type. If you buy the wrong bar, you will have to return it.

There are 4 types of RAM:

• Ddr1 is the most “ancient”;

• Ddr2 - also outdated;

• Ddr3 - still in use;

• Ddr4 is the newest development:

There are several ways to determine what type is installed on your computer. First of all, you need to familiarize yourself with the sticker on the front side of the bar, if there is one. Most often, it indicates the type of memory, capacity and other information. If the type is not directly specified, then you can use other markings. For example, if it says “PC3”, then it is ddr3, and if it says “PC2” then it is ddr2.

The most reliable method is to look at the cutouts between the yellow pads. The diagram below will help you figure this out:

The last method is to use special software to scan installed components. For example, this is perfect for "AIDA64".

Laptops use the same markings, but a slightly different scheme. The dimensions of the planks are much smaller.

Installing RAM Modules

First of all, you need to open the computer case from the side where you can access the motherboard. Necessarily completely turn off the computer, unplug the wire from the socket and turn off the power by holding down the “Start” button. Depending on the type of case you are using, you will have to unscrew the screws on the back of the PC and remove the cover, remove the latches, or simply open it like a door.

We find slots for RAM on the motherboard. They should look something like this:

If there are already modules in place of which new ones should be installed, you need to dismantle them. To do this, press the latches on the sides and remove the strips. You must be very careful, as this is a very sensitive, fragile part.

Now we take new RAM and install it in a free slot. To do this, you need to insert the bar so that the groove coincides with the protrusion in the connector. You need to lightly press the module so that it fits completely into the connector. During installation, a click may be heard, which means that the latches are automatically latched and the memory is installed correctly. If this does not happen, but the bar is installed, manually “snap” it.

It is recommended to insert paired RAM into slots of the same color, if any. On most motherboards, the connectors are painted in two colors - 2 in one, 2 in the other. Installing two identical parts into slots with the same coloring will allow the devices to operate in dual-channel mode.

After this, close the case cover, tighten the bolts and connect the PC to electricity. We try to start the computer - if the system starts as usual, then everything is done correctly. If there is any doubt about the functionality, it is recommended to check the new parts using.

In laptops the principle is almost the same, but there are slight differences. First you need to turn off your laptop and unplug it from the network. Next, remove the battery - depending on the device model, you will have to unscrew the screws on the back cover or use another method to open the case. After the battery has been removed, you need to press the power button - this will eliminate static charges.

To find the RAM slot you need to remove the panel on the bottom of the device. There may be several panels, therefore, for reliability, it is recommended to read the documents received upon purchase or search online for disassembly of a specific model.

Most often, two RAM slots are available. Budget models boast only one connector. More expensive devices may have more room for more RAM. To remove the old strips you need to open the latches on the sides. Once they are released, the part will rise at a 45° angle.

Carefully insert the new module at the same angle, checking that it fits correctly into the connector. Next, you need to press the bar from top to bottom so that the latches on the sides automatically close. Next, we return all the panels to their place, install the battery and close the housing cover. We try to turn on the device. If you have any doubts about the functionality of your laptop, check it using

Alternative ways to increase RAM

In addition to installing new components, you can use other methods to increase your computer's RAM.

Expanding RAM using a flash drive

The easiest and most affordable way to add RAM to a computer or laptop is to use a flash drive.

Starting with Windows 7, it is possible to use the utility "Ready Boost".

1. First, you need to insert the flash drive into the USB connector on your computer.
2. Opening "Conductor" and right-click on the name of the flash drive in the left menu.
3. Select an item "Properties" and move on to the section "Ready Boost".
4. Check the “Use this device” box.
5. We indicate the volume of the flash drive that will be used as RAM, you can specify the entire volume at once.
6. Click "Apply", Then "OK" and close the window.

This method is good because it does not require additional costs if you have a free flash drive. Before purchasing new modules, you can safely use it.

Changing BIOS Settings

Changing BIOS settings is necessary to overclock RAM. In general, the main task of the BIOS is to enable the user to configure the operation of components, the computer, and so on.

1. Reboot the computer and press the key to enter the BIOS - "Del","Esc","F2" and so on. You can press several keys at once so that you don’t have to restart your PC later.
2. Click "Ctrl+F1", the advanced settings window will open; if it doesn’t, go to point "Advanced BIOS Features".
3. Select an item "System Memory Multiplier" or "Advanced DRAM Configuration".
4. In the section "DRAM Timing Selectable" set the mode "Manual", that is, manual settings.
5. We save the changes and, if desired, experiment with changing the timings.
6. We restart the computer and change the settings in special programs (for example, AIDA64).

This way you can customize your PC for yourself. It is important to understand that changes to the settings should be made by a person who understands this at least a little.

We hope that after this you understand the principle of increasing your computer’s RAM. If you have any questions, be sure to ask them in the comments!