The memory inserted into the laptop did not provide performance. Memory DIMMs and requirements. When does it make sense to increase RAM?
When do you need to add RAM to your laptop?When purchasing a laptop, we most often focus on the processor power and hard capacity disk, without paying due attention to the amount of RAM. In principle, there is nothing wrong with this, because the RAM can be replaced or upgraded, but it is unlikely to do the same operation with the processor. What is typical is that it is the lack of RAM that more often causes problems with the operation of a laptop than insufficient power CPU. Even unpleasant surprises did not occur before, they will inevitably arise with the installation new version resource-intensive application or updating the operating system version.
Symptoms that indicate that you need to increase the amount of RAM are varied. The most typical one is “everything slows down”, “it takes two hours to load”. Less often, the system itself reports the need to increase the size of the paging file, or the application suggests unloading other software to free up resources. To make sure that the laptop is really low on RAM, just run several typical applications and open the “Performance” tab in the Windows “Task Manager”: in the “Physical Memory” section you can see how much space is available and how much is occupied, and the paging file fullness meter will indicate how much The RAM limit has been exceeded (if, of course, all physical memory is occupied). More detailed information can be obtained using special utilities, such as FreeMeter, which dynamically display memory usage with data.
When increasing the amount of RAM is effective and when it is not
The fact that modern operating systems and applications are very demanding on the amount of RAM does not mean that they are indifferent to the computing capabilities of the processor. In some cases, increasing memory “all the way” does not save the situation - this is easy to verify by looking at the use of CPU resources using any monitor or the same Windows “Application Manager”. If the memory is not fully loaded, and the processor is over 80%, you need to look for another solution to the problem. Programs that are equally demanding on both the processor’s capabilities and the amount of RAM (for example, Adobe Photoshop), force a compromise choice between these parameters. In the same time office applications (Microsoft components Office, web browsers, Internet communicators) are much more critical of available memory, especially if they are running simultaneously. If you add a media player, antivirus and mail client, RAM resources will be exhausted quite quickly, and the processor will remain idle. In turn, frequent switching between numerous programs when there is not enough RAM will lead to constant swapping to the hard drive and cause slowdowns in work.
In general, if you run a lot on your laptop different programs at the same time or prefer to open several dozen tabs in the browser, it makes sense to increase the amount of RAM.
But we must remember that there is a limit to the platform used: 32-bit versions of the OS (Windows XP, Vista, 7) can work with a maximum of 3 GB of RAM, so even installing 4 GB or higher (if the motherboard allows) will not be beneficial.
How to determine the RAM configuration without opening the device
In order to begin upgrading the memory, you need to know exactly the volume of memory sticks installed on it, their number and type. First of all, of course, volume is important. It can be easily determined by running system utility dxdiag, which will show the total amount of RAM available to the system.
The full memory resource can be obtained from start screen(POST) output when the system starts, or using the CPU-Z utility. The Memory tab displays not only the total amount of RAM, but also the number of channels (Dual/Single), which allows you to guess the number of installed sticks (two or one), as well as find out its (memory) type - DDR2 or DDR3. In addition, the memory operating frequency is displayed there. However, it is possible that your laptop can support higher frequencies.
The most accurate parameters (without opening the case) can be obtained from the passport for the laptop or using the data from the manufacturer’s website: as a rule, they also indicate the quantity available slots, and type and recommended frequency. And most importantly, these parameters are also important so that you know whether an upgrade is possible at all.
How to determine how much memory you need
As a rule, laptops are equipped with two slots for RAM(less often three or four), which imposes restrictions on its possible configuration.
Considering that memory prices are constantly falling, there is no problem in doubling it. If, according to your passport, your laptop supports dual-channel architecture, then to achieve maximum performance you need to take an even number of planks, preferably from the same manufacturer and definitely of the same type. It is best if they are supplied as a set and not individually - the sets use almost identical modules.
As I said, the amount of memory is limited by the capabilities of the OS, but even if the laptop has an edition that does not have access to an address space of more than 3 GB, you can safely install two 2 GB sticks.
And finally, the memory type. Most likely it will be DDR3. When choosing, you need to keep in mind that in laptops, unlike desktop PCs, the memory form factor is SODIMM, so you need to look for it in specialized sections of online store catalogs (for example, “memory for laptops”).
The memory frequency can be indicated either directly as a “type-frequency” (DDR3-1600) or as a “name-data transfer rate” (PC3-12800). This double marking should not be alarmed: usually both parameters are indicated in stores, but you can independently determine the correspondence using numerous tables on the Internet.
How to increase the amount of RAM if all slots are occupied
Certainly, simplest option memory upgrade - in the case of one module, supplement it with an identical one by installing it in a free slot. If they are all occupied, and the amount of RAM is insufficient (for example, two 1 GB sticks, and you only need four), you will have to replace the existing modules with similar ones of a larger capacity. For example, replace 2x1 GB with 2x2 GB or 2x4 GB (for a 64-bit OS). As a rule, 8 GB is quite enough for any application (if such a volume is supported by the operating system), although modules up to 8 GB per stick are now available in stores.
What is required for the upgrade
In addition to memory modules, all you need is a screwdriver and a little patience. If the laptop is under warranty, it is better to contact service center so as not to lose it. There is an opinion that it makes sense to contact the service center in any case: they say, specialists will carry out an upgrade, not only replacing the memory with a more capacious one, but also compensating for the cost of the new sticks by removing the old ones. Alas, this is rare: at current prices for memory modules, removed memory sticks will most likely be returned to the owner without any compensation. So the only one strong argument to contact a service center - the presence of a warranty or your personal reluctance to do this work for fear of damaging the laptop. And the removed strips will be useful as spare ones - in case of an emergency. Otherwise, replacing memory is a simple operation. The cover that blocks access to the memory compartment is located on the bottom panel of the laptop and is usually secured with one, rarely two, screws, in addition to them there may be a latch.
But before you start replacing, you need to turn off the power to the motherboard. Easy shutdown a laptop (including from a power outlet) is not enough: be sure to remove the battery (this operation is described in detail in the user manual).
After turning off the power sources, you need to unscrew the fastening screws on the memory compartment cover (on some laptops they are marked “Memory” or “RAM”) and remove it.
The newly opened access to memory slots will allow you to remove installed modules(move the two latches to the sides) and install new ones in the reverse order, paying attention to the key slot in the strip and the corresponding protrusion on the plastic part of the connector.
Considering that the planks are mounted at an angle, there is only one sequence of their installation - from bottom to top. After replacing the memory elements, assembly is performed in the reverse order: install the compartment cover, tighten the mounting screws and return the battery to its place. After these steps, turn on the laptop and make sure that the amount of memory is determined correctly.
If you are not sure that you have assembled everything correctly, do not rush to install the cover, this will give you the opportunity to correct the error. The main thing is to remember to disconnect the battery before any operations with the equipment.
Upgrading memory is one of the simplest operations (besides replacing the battery), allowing you to instantly evaluate the performance gains. Indeed, after increasing the amount of memory, application loading speeds up, switching time between them decreases, and work comfort increases.
Observer, analyst, systems engineer. Full member of the Intel Experts Club, certified specialist (Munich) in networking and server technologies since 1993. Has been involved in computers and related solutions since 1985, has participated in numerous exhibitions, and has won awards for original circuit design and software development. He received his first diploma in 1984 from the Patent Bureau of the Young Technician magazine. He is interested in hunting, fishing, and water-motor sports. “Tired of the bustle of civilization, I prefer a solitary life away from it. All free time I give it to my family and children.”
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 that matches your laptop to find documents and specifications 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)
Cm. specifications laptop or the care and maintenance manual for information on 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 your product code in the Search box at the top of this page, insert a space, and enter the words 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 notebook 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 lesser of the two numerical 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 the maximum speed 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 instructions are 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 installed memory capacity to determine the capacity of the 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.
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 what Windows edition 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 compartment 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. For getting 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 the original memory modules and check that the computer can be used with the 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 DDR1 DIMMs and DDR2 DIMMs.
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 frequency system bus. If multiple DIMMs with different operating frequencies are installed, the operating frequency of all installed memory will be equal to the operating frequency of the DIMM 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 an operating voltage of 2.5 V.
Memory DDR2 incompatible with DDR memory 1 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 DAR type SCRAM memory only if the computer came 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 an HP retailer, an authorized HP dealer, or from a trusted computer component supplier 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.
Attention! This article is not a guide, instruction, etc. This describes how it's done, not how to do it. Any handling of technology requires experience and knowledge. Read, analyze, draw conclusions. Experimenting yourself or turning to specialists is your personal choice.
The laptop (if you have one) has a certain amount of RAM installed RAM memory(Random Access Memory), popularly called “RAM” or “brains”. These same “brains” are the modules that are present in the laptop. As a rule, a laptop has two slots for these modules, less often - one. They can be added, subtracted, combined in volume, ultimately achieving the required amount of RAM.
Poor performance computer when several programs are running simultaneously - sure sign small amount of random access memory (RAM). This occurs because the processor does not have enough space to store information about the transactions processed. Fortunately, adding RAM to a laptop is not a difficult process, and any user can do it on their own. But before you go to the store, you need to know what type of memory is suitable for your computer model.
There are three types of RAM: DDR, DDR2, DDR3. The first DDRs are no longer relevant and today only DDR2 and DDR3 are used
Any laptop or computer can only support one of these types. They differ in frequency, data exchange rate and a cutout on the bar in the contact area so that an unintended type of memory cannot be inserted into the slot. You can find out what type of DDR is supported by your laptop from those. passports, read the sticker on the memory module that is already installed in this moment, or use one of the many programs that determine the technical characteristics of a computer. If you have any difficulties with at this stage, then it is better to consult a specialist.
Remember that the amount of memory you can deliver also depends on the bit size of your processor. If you are 32- bit processor and corresponding operating system, then the laptop will not use more than 3 GB of memory. To avoid these limitations, you need: a 64-bit processor and a 64-bit operating system.
Let's move on to practice...
To increase the amount of RAM, we need to install an additional module (pre-purchased) in a free slot. The question immediately arises: “Where to look for this slot?” Memory slots are located on motherboard laptop, usually from the bottom.
It happens that the slots are located on top (under the laptop keyboard). Let's consider both options:
Option 1. Adding RAM if the slots are on top.
Our “guinea pig” will be the Asus A2500H laptop with DDR RAM. It has only 256 MB of RAM and its memory slots are on the top. If you perform similar operations with a laptop yourself, make it a rule to first remove battery.
The last photo shows that the RAM is not 256 MB, but only 224. The thing is that this model (like many others) has an integrated video system, which also “took” some memory from the RAM. In order to get to the treasured RAM slots, you need to remove the keyboard (partially). How to do it? Move with sufficient force top panel to the left... after which it is perfectly removed completely:
Now there is nothing stopping you from removing the keyboard and taking another step towards adding RAM.
The keyboard can be “thrown away” without disconnecting its cable from the motherboard. Let's do....
“What we need” is shielded by a metal socket, which is fastened with two bolts. Unscrew...
That's basically it. There are two memory slots in front of you. In one of them the laptop already has 256 mb, in the second slot we will add another 256 mb. By the way, you can add 512 mb and 1024 mb.
The amount of memory in both slots is summed up. Below is a photo with it installed additional memory...
Now we put everything together in reverse order and look at the result:
Option 2. Adding RAM when the slots are at the bottom.
Now let's look at an easier way to add RAM when the memory slots are at the bottom. For example, let's take Acer laptop Aspire 5315 with DDR II memory. Here he is handsome:
Turn over and remove the battery:
Unscrew all the bolts in in this case There are 4 of them on the panel with the microcircuit symbol and lift the cover.
Next is the already familiar procedure. Place the module in a free slot and put everything back together.
Or here another example when located below.
Turn off the laptop and disconnect the power supply.
Turn it over and place it on a flat surface.
Remove the battery.
Then unscrew the mounting screws holding the memory compartment cover.
Remove the cover.
As a rule, there should be two slots for RAM in the compartment (sometimes there is one). If both slots are occupied, you will have to remove one of the modules and replace it with a new one. To get the bar, you need to press the latches on each side so that it pops out and lifts itself up a little.
Grasp the edge of the memory and carefully remove it from the slot.
This completes the installation. Close the compartment with the lid and screw back the screws. Insert the battery, connect the power and you can turn on the laptop.
To check the amount of RAM, click right click mouse on the icon " My computer" and select properties. See the details of the item " Memory (RAM)».
Of course there are many various features V various models laptops. It happens that both slots are free (there is built-in RAM) or vice versa: both slots are occupied by low-capacity modules. In rare cases, RAM may not be located below or under the keyboard, but, for example, to the left of the touchpad. There are laptop models where one slot is on the bottom and the other on the top.
Such a laptop upgrade is not difficult to do and does not affect the removal of the laptop from warranty service. But if you still have doubts or simply don’t want unnecessary hassle, contact the specialists.
And finally, video instructions.
Installing RAM in Asus laptop
Installing RAM in a Toshiba laptop
Installing RAM in an Acer laptop
Every laptop user should know about the ability to significantly expand the RAM on their PC. This will be needed when your device has too little RAM, or it is occupied by other applications, programs or games. Such situations happen much more often with laptops, so let's talk about expanding the RAM on a laptop.
A good way is that at present additional strips Memory is not that cheap.
Manufacturers, in turn, make laptops that are, for the most part, more compact and designed mainly for work and study, which does not imply high performance
When buying a laptop specifically for gaming, you will need to choose a model that will be suitable for several more years. These game models laptops include up to 32 GB of RAM, they are mostly MSI brands.
Of course, the prices of such laptops are “cosmic”, about 150 rubles, which is not always suitable for the average user, who would rather expand the laptop’s memory with his own hands.
The first signal that you need to change or supplement RAM is a direct message that at some point the computer simply does not have enough RAM, or it has stopped running certain programs and games.
This is noticeable in cases where your model is already old, but not very old, and programs, as a rule, are updated once a year, and you need exactly “that”, “non-startable” program.
If some files stop opening, this indicates that most likely the device needs to be completely changed. But sometimes this problem is corrected by additional RAM sticks.
And most devices do not have enough memory. For example, manufacturers install only 4 gigabytes of RAM on standard quad-core processors, when the board itself can support up to 16 gigabytes of RAM.
Advice! If you decide to expand (increase) RAM, you should change Windows x32 to Windows x64. After which the RAM usage will go to full force. If the system is not changed, only 3 gigabytes of RAM will be used.
If this function is not available, that is, you have a processor that only supports 32-bit, then expanding the RAM beyond 3 GB is out of the question; you will have to change the laptop completely.
1. Selecting RAM
Before you go shopping to increase memory, you need to check whether this can be done, and also look at the type of RAM itself, and required quantity slats. You can install exactly as much on a laptop and computer additional modules RAM, how many slots it costs.Determining the number of slots is easy - disassemble the laptop and look at the place installed RAM planks. Are there empty modules there, how many are there?
But the issue can be resolved in another way, using CPU-Z programs, which will help with information. The program works on Win7 and higher.
After you download and install the software itself, a special window will open. One of the windows will show how many RAM slots in your laptop are occupied, and how much memory is currently installed. The first slot will show all the information about the parameters of the operating device.
For example, here is a DDR3 stick with a capacity of 4 GB. If there are two such boards, and there are no other slots at all, in order to increase the amount of RAM, you will need to completely replace them.
This is easy to do, remove the 4 GB sticks, and put other 8 GB sticks in their place. If only one slot is occupied, then install an extension there for the same amount of memory. It is very rare to find 4 RAM expansion sticks on laptops.
There is software that is designed to select memory. Some of these programs will show, in addition to the parameters of RAM and its components, also the volume of this storage device.
Others will even help with information and tips on installing planks. It will give the user links to pages with these components, and also indicate the price for the extension.
2. Buying memory (RAM)
When purchasing a new RAM stick, you need to find out whether its frequency can be increased. Some motherboards allow the user to install additional DDR sticks, with a frequency (speed) of 1400 to 1900 million operations per second.
Others may support even more high frequency– up to 2400 MHz. To find out about the memory that is suitable, read about your motherboard.
It is advisable to resolve this issue in advance, as it is very important. If some parameters do not match, then the purchased module simply will not work on your laptop.
If you do not change the module, but add it, their volumes should be the same as those established bar. Work with different slats is also possible, but at a lower speed, which makes the addition impractical.
The price of RAM for PCs and laptops is almost identical. But the size of the RAM slot in a laptop is much smaller than a PC.
Laptops require a smaller version of RAM called SO-DIMM. This should be taken into account if you order the bar via the Internet.
Advice: if there are no more RAM sticks left on sale for your laptop, you need to decide: increase the memory, or is it better to purchase it already new gadget for comfortable work.
3. Installing memory sticks (RAM)
When you have already purchased memory, you should install it in your laptop. Some models example Asus, require complete removal of the back cover, which prevents the replacement or addition of RAM or other elements.Most often, you will spend up to 3 minutes installing or replacing planks.
It's very simple:
1. Turn off the device completely;
2. Remove the battery from the special connector;
3. Locate and open the RAM compartment;
4. Remove old planks, if possible. The slats can be held on with latches;
5. Insert the new module until the latch clicks;
6. Reinstall the battery;
7. Reinstall the cover.
You can verify the genuine expansion and installation of RAM after Windows turns on, just check the amount of RAM through the PC properties.
When increasing memory, make sure that your actions will not violate the warranty in the event of a breakdown. In addition, if through back cover RAM is difficult to access - read the instructions for disassembling and operating this laptop model as a whole.
For example, the model Lenovo laptop, to install RAM strips you have to remove the hard drive ( HDD). In older laptop models, the RAM strips may be located in two different places.
4. A method to increase RAM memory using a flash drive
There is a very simple option to increase your RAM laptop computer. This method does not even involve disassembling your PC and purchasing new RAM slots (modules).
All we need is a flash drive with a capacity of up to 16 GB and an OS higher than Windows 7. The exact same method works great on a PC.
Why is it better to choose this method?
The main reason for increasing RAM using a flash drive:
- unwillingness or inability to spend money on new RAM;
- inability to manually replace slats and other things;
- the need to increase RAM at this very moment.
Operating principle of RAM expansion
Windows 7 has real opportunity increase RAM. This is done using a paging file that can be created on the drive. Utility ReadyBoost copes with this task.
You can call ReadyBoost after opening the flash drive, and after selecting the appropriate field.
Using this method allows you to significantly increase RAM to the following values:
256 GB for Windows 7 x64
32 GB for Windows 7 x32
4 GB for XP. It is not built into HP - you will have to download it.
But it is recommended to set the ratio of flash memory and physical memory in a certain proportion of 2.5 to 1. For example, if the laptop has only 2 GB of RAM, it is impractical and not advisable to install a page file on your flash drive larger than 5 GB.
How to increase laptop memory
To do this you will need the following:
1. Take an empty or new flash drive with USB 2.0, no lower, of course better USB 3.0, to increase data transfer speed;
2. Install the flash drive into a special USB port;
3. Format the flash drive and install NTFS format(not necessary).
4. If there is any information on the “Flash drive”, the “Clear table of contents” checkbox must be unchecked. After all, this will only increase the formatting time, but will delete all data that will later be used as RAM.
After a notification appears about the completion of formatting, you need to go to the already familiar ReadyBoost tab, where you need to configure the amount of memory increase on the laptop.
For example, if the flash drive capacity reaches 16 GB, the laptop can use 15+ of them. But after this, the flash drive can no longer be used as a data storage device, and if you view its properties, you will see the following:
It is quite possible to install a smaller, required amount of RAM on a flash drive. In this case, the remaining space can easily be used to store files.
Before disconnecting, the device should be disconnected from USB port, first cancel ReadyBoost by selecting “Do not use device” in the disk properties.
This method is not always an option full-fledged work"heavy" applications. But this method will significantly speed up opening photos and loading videos, as well as the operation of the browser.
5. Conclusion
Having received information about correct magnification You can make RAM on a laptop from your own weak device, increase its speed and even run programs that were previously inaccessible. These could be games, some video editors.But do not forget that it often happens that the main role in games is played not by RAM, but by graphics memory, for which the video card is responsible.
There is very little in laptops that can be upgraded, and if it is available, it is extremely difficult. But on such a device, enlarging in most cases is not at all difficult, as this article will prove. How to increase RAM on a laptop?
Why do you need an upgrade?
Some older laptop models do not have very balanced configurations, compared to today's standards. For example, this is an i7 processor and only four gigabytes of RAM. Is it possible to increase RAM on a laptop? Certainly. Its volume can be increased to eight or even sixteen gigabytes. And this will give a significant increase in performance when working with graphics, videos, and games. In addition, this is the most inexpensive way to upgrade.
It is necessary to take into account that to work with more than three gigabytes of RAM on a laptop you will need to install a 64-bit version of the operating system Windows systems, if 32-bit is currently used.
What memory is needed for laptops
Before buying sticks and finding out how to increase the amount of RAM on a laptop, it would be nice to know the number of connectors, the number of occupied slots and the type of memory used.
The device can be disassembled (and if there is a separate cover that allows access to the memory, then remove it), and then find and examine the markings and the presence of connectors. Such information may be indicated in the instructions for the laptop. But not every user will risk disassembling their device, so there are simpler ways.
Will help with this free utility called CPU-Z, which shows in great detail all the information about a computer or laptop. You can download this program from the official website. There is a version that does not require installation; it runs directly from the archive.
Working with the program
Once the utility is downloaded and launched, you need to pay attention to the tabs that will help with the mission of increasing the RAM in the laptop. What are these tabs?
- SPD. The number of memory slots, type and size, as well as the manufacturer are displayed here. If, when selecting a slot, all fields are empty, it means there is no memory stick in it.
- The Memory tab shows detailed information about the total amount of memory, its type and timings.
- The Mainboard tab displays details about the device's motherboard. This data will help you find all the characteristics of the board and its chipset on the Internet, and then find out the type and amount of supported RAM.
Most often, the information contained only on the SPD tab is sufficient. It is there that the type of memory, its frequency, and the number of connectors are indicated. Using all this data, you can understand how to increase RAM on a laptop, whether there is a chance for an upgrade, and what you will need for this. For example, you can find out which slot is occupied by which module, which chipset is used, whether the memory works in multi-channel mode, what is the maximum allowable amount of memory. The latter is searched on the Internet.
In order for the memory to work in whichever mode is more preferable, you need two completely identical memory sticks in two slots.
The following example will show how to increase RAM on a laptop (Asus, HP, Lenovo and others). Sometimes the device manufacturer provides easier access to the modules due to the presence of a separate cover on the bottom surface.
If the user compact laptop or a very thin ultrabook, then there can be no question of any cover. The disassembly scheme for each model is completely unique. It is also important to note that for some laptops, carrying out such an operation is a direct deprivation of warranty service. We need to keep this in mind.
Sequencing
How to increase RAM on a laptop? What are the steps? First, as you might guess, you need to turn off your laptop. The cord must also be removed from the outlet. It is also advisable to remove the battery in order to completely de-energize it. Then, using a screwdriver, you carefully open the cover, under which you can see the RAM strips that are installed in their slots. They need to be very carefully removed, and new ones added in their place.
During the removal process, you need to pay attention to the fact that most often the planks on the sides are fixed with special latched holders. They need to be bent. When inserting memory modules, you need to do it very firmly and press until the latches click into place. This happens on the vast majority of models. The whole process is relatively simple.
Shutdown
After completing all the steps, you need to return the cover to its place, insert the battery and start the laptop. Then you need to check whether the operating system sees the installed RAM modules.
If everything works as it should, then the user can be congratulated, since now his laptop will work much faster, and productivity will increase several times.
And if something is wrong or it’s scary to replace it yourself, it’s better to contact a qualified technician who knows how to increase RAM on a laptop.
