Installing a memory module in a laptop. How to increase RAM on a laptop: a step-by-step description of the process applicable to all models of Asus, Acer, Lenovo, etc.

The need to know how to increase RAM on a laptop appears in cases where the RAM already installed on the device is not enough to run the necessary games or programs. This situation happens much more often with laptop PCs than with desktop PCs. If only because most of the characteristics of desktop and laptop models with the same price differ noticeably not in favor of the latter. This is explained by the desire of manufacturers of portable computers to place everything as compactly as possible - and this is usually enough for the average user, who primarily requires mobility from the device, rather than high performance.

It’s easy to avoid this problem - you just need to buy a laptop whose memory won’t have to be increased for another 3-4 years. For example, such as MSI gaming models with 16–32 GB of memory. True, their price will be no less than 100–150 thousand rubles, which is unlikely to suit the average user who would prefer to increase the RAM of an existing computer.

The first sign that it’s time to change the memory are messages about a lack of RAM or games and useful programs that won’t start at all. This is especially noticeable if the laptop model is not that old, but applications are still needed, for example, for work.

Files that do not open do not necessarily indicate that the entire device will have to be replaced. There is a possibility that the problem can be solved by simply adding 1-2 sticks of RAM. Moreover, some devices do not have enough memory - for example, for a quad-core processor, the manufacturer can install only 4 GB, while the board supports both 8 and 16 GB.

Advice: When increasing memory, it is worth changing from 32-bit Windows to 64-bit. After this, the RAM will be fully used. If this is not done, the system will only use 3 GB of memory.

If this is not done, the system will only use 3 GB of memory. The same applies to a 32-bit processor, but since they have not been produced for several years, the presence of such a component requires replacing not the memory, but the entire computer.

Memory selection

Before purchasing memory and increasing it, you should check whether this can be done, as well as the type of RAM and the required number of sticks. Any computer, desktop or laptop, can have as many modules as it has slots specially designed for this.

You can determine this amount visually by disassembling the laptop and looking at what memory is already installed there, and how much can be installed. However, the issue can be solved in a simpler way - for example, by downloading the free CPU-Z program, which will work in Windows 7 and in later versions of the operating system. The most convenient way to find and download the application completely free is on the official website of its manufacturer, CPUID.

After starting the program, a window with several tabs will open. One of them, SPD, will help determine which slots of your laptop are occupied, what type and amount of memory is already installed. The default slot number 1 displays information about device parameters. For the example given, this is a 4 GB DDR3 RAM stick. If two of the same boards are installed (for optimal operation a paired arrangement is required, i.e. 2 or 4 identical ones), and there are no other slots at all, a complete replacement will be necessary to increase the volume. For example, removing both 4 GB sticks and putting two 8 GB sticks in them. If only one slot is occupied, you can install the same memory in the second. Four connection spots are very rare on laptops.

There are other programs that can help you decide on the choice of memory. Some of them will show not only the parameters of the installed RAM and other components, but also the maximum storage capacity. And special software can even provide information about possible options for installing the slats. There are services that even contain links to pages with components, where you can find out the approximate cost of memory and evaluate your ability to increase it.

Memory acquisition

When purchasing a new RAM module, you should make sure whether it is possible to increase its frequency. Some laptop motherboards allow you to install DDR3 memory, for example, with data transfer speeds from 1333 to 1866 million operations per second. Others support a higher frequency – up to 2400 MHz. You can find out which memory is suitable for your device by reading the information about the motherboard found online. It is very important to resolve this issue in advance, since a module designed to operate on a different bus or a larger volume than supported by the laptop will not work.

If a module is not changed, but added, its frequency and volume must match the parameters of the already installed one. Although the device will be able to work with different strips, it will most likely be much slower - and there will not be much benefit from such a replacement. So, for example, you are unlikely to notice an increase in performance when adding another 1–2 GB module to a 4 GB module installed in one slot, although you will spend some money and time on this.

The cost of memory for laptops is currently practically no different from computer memory. However, it has a special slot size, half the size compared to the connectors in a PC. For laptop computers, a smaller version, SO-DIMM, is required, which should be taken into account when ordering RAM in an online store or at a regular retail outlet.

Advice: If there are no RAM chips for your laptop on sale anymore (for example, it supports the still outdated DDR2 type), you still need to decide whether it’s worth increasing the memory, or whether it’s better to buy a new gadget.

Memory installation

When the memory has already been selected and purchased, they proceed to installing it on the laptop. On some models like Asus, this will require removing the entire back cover and removing other elements that interfere with replacing or adding RAM. Most often this applies to compact devices – mini-laptops and netbooks.

When faced with the problem of optimizing the operation of a computer and increasing its performance, the first step to solving the problem, which is easiest to do, is to increase amount of RAM or optimize it by increasing performance. The best option among those proposed is to purchase an additional memory stick (RAM) or replace existing memory sticks with those that have a large capacity.

The difficulty of choosing when replacing a Windows RAM module lies in the particular influence of its parameters on the performance of the computer. It is worth remembering that RAM exchanges data with the central processor. The stronger the relationship between these components, the faster the necessary calculations are carried out in the system. Therefore, the choice of memory must be approached based on the above, and then the RAM will work with maximum efficiency.

But before you go to the store for new trims, you need to install:

• What amount of memory is currently installed and what is the maximum amount supported by the board?
• What type of memory is supported by the motherboard and processor?
• How many memory slots are there and in what mode do they operate?
• What is the memory frequency supported by the processor?

Let's start in order. In general, what is RAM needed for? To temporarily store data to perform ongoing processor operations. The larger it is, the easier it is for the processor to simultaneously perform several tasks.

RAM is volatile, which means that after the computer is turned off, all data on it will be deleted, unlike data stored on the hard drive.

How to find out the current amount of RAM?

To do this, it is not even necessary to open the computer lid - we launch the Speccy utility we already know and find the current characteristics in the corresponding section. In principle, all the main characteristics are already presented here, which we will consider in detail below.

At the moment we are interested in capacity - I have 2 slots on my laptop, both of which are occupied. The total size is 2000 MB (2GB), that is, there are 2 1 GB sticks on the laptop.

This is quite enough for normal daily operation of Windows, but if you plan to play games with complex graphics or use heavy graphics or video programs, then it is advisable to install more.

By the way, each version of the operating system has minimum RAM requirements, without which it simply will not work.

• For Windows XP— At least 64 MB of RAM (at least 128 MB recommended)
• Windows 10, 7 and 8- 1 gigabyte (GB) (for a 32-bit system) or 2 GB (for a 64-bit system) of random access memory (RAM).

Even when planning for expansion, you should check the motherboard or processor specifications to see what the maximum size is supported. This is indicated in the detailed description in the memory section. So, in the Intel Core i54430 model the maximum size is 32 GB.

For an office PC on which you will only work with office documents, 1 GB of memory is sufficient.
For home viewing of videos, photos, and using various applications, it is recommended to use 2 GB or more.
For a powerful gaming computer - 8GB and above.

However, keep in mind that 4 GB or more will only work fully on a 64-bit OS; Windows 32 and up will see no more than 3 GB.

Supported RAM type

The next indicator characterizing the RAM is its type. We list them as technologies develop - SDRAMM DIMM, DDR (or PC), DDR2 (PC-2) and DDR3 (PC-3).

As you can see from the above screenshot from the Speccy program, my laptop supports DDR3 memory, although today the latest modern standard is DDR4.

All modern processors work with this standard, however, older standards can also be found on older boards. If your computer is many years old, then it is likely that it uses an outdated type and the memory module must be selected of this particular standard. Memory modules of different types are incompatible with “foreign” slots on the motherboard.

You can also find out the type of supported RAM from the characteristics of the processor (CPU) or motherboard model on the manufacturer's official website - you can also easily find out these models in the Speccy program or its analogues.

If you have spare sticks of RAM, it can also sometimes be difficult to determine what type it is. Usually they have a sticker indicating the type - PC, PC-2, PC-3 or DDR, DDR2, DDR3. But if there is no sticker, then we will determine it as follows.

The DDR and DDR2 strips are very similar in appearance and have 1 key (cutout) located almost in the center. But DDR has 180 contacts - 92 on each side. And on DDR2 - 240 - 120 on each side, and they are visually narrower than DDR2. It's easy to count them because they are numbered.

DDR3 modules have the same number of pins as PC-2, but the key is not in the middle, but shifted to the edge.

The memory module of the very old SDRAM standard is distinguished by the presence of two keys.

Number of slots for memory sticks and their operating mode

We also saw the number of slots intended for installing brackets in the program - I have 2 of them. If you open the lid of the computer case, you can see several characteristic one- or multi-colored connectors on the board. This is the place where the memory sticks are placed. There are 4 of them in the picture below.

The multicolored color tells us that the memory on this board can operate in dual-channel mode - that is, data is simultaneously transmitted to the controller to the processor or northbridge (depending on) via two channels, which increases the speed of data processing.

To activate this mode, you should purchase at least 2 strips and, as a rule, insert them into two same-color connectors. Which ones exactly? This is written in the instructions for the board and colors may differ in different models. If you buy 4 modules at once, then use all the slots at once.

You also need to take into account that if you currently have a total memory of 2 GB, like me, and you plan to increase it to 4 GB, then it is optimal to purchase 2 modules of 2 GB each rather than one 4 GB, since you can use them to the maximum in in two-channel mode.

It should also be noted here that when purchasing several modules, it is advisable to choose one manufacturer, or even better, take a ready-made kit (KIT) consisting of several strips at once - such a kit is guaranteed to work without problems.

Clock frequency

Another important indicator of memory is its clock speed, which is measured in megahertz (MHz). The speed of information processing depends on it. When choosing a module, be sure to look at what frequency your processor officially supports. The model that was shown in the screenshot above works with PC3-12800 (DDR3 1600 MHz), PC3-10600 (DDR3 1333 MHz), PC3-8500 (DDR3 1066 MHz) memory. The same characteristics can be seen on online store websites in the detailed description of memory modules. For example, let's look at a gaming kit of 4 4 GB sticks Corsair XMS3 DDR-III DIMM 32Gb KIT 4*8Gb:

RAM Bandwidth

A parameter such as throughput, which shows how much data can be transferred as much as possible in a certain time, also depends on the frequency. It is measured in megabytes per second (MB/s) and is calculated by multiplying the frequency by 8. That is, in our example, the memory has a frequency of 1333 MHz * 8 = 10667 MB/s, which is also visible in the description.

The higher the bandwidth, the higher the speed of the RAM module. However, we take into account the fact that

modern processors support memory with a maximum frequency of 1600 MHz.

If you buy an expensive stick with a higher frequency, it will work the same as a cheaper one at 1600 MHz.

Timing

Here we can also talk about such a characteristic as timing. This is the delay time when processing operations inside the RAM module chips themselves. The timing is recorded as a sequence of several numbers - in our example it is 9-9-9-24. The last 4th two-digit parameter characterizes the performance of the entire microcircuit as a whole.

Timing can also be indicated by the letters CL and a number, which indicates the first value in the detailed sequence. In our example, the short version would be designated as CL9.

The lower the timings, the better, but such modules also cost more. However, this only matters for high-performance, high-speed PCs—for home and office use, you can ignore this parameter.

Gamers can use the BIOS settings and manually play with changing the timings downwards, but this must be done carefully, otherwise you risk damaging the modules.

RAM for a laptop or desktop computer?

In theory, this is the first question that we should ask ourselves, but essentially it is not the most important, since it is simply impossible to confuse the form factor. For a laptop, the modules are wide and short, for a PC they are long and narrow.

On the websites in the characteristics they are indicated as follows:

• DIMM- for PC,
• SODIMM- for laptop.

Type of cooling of memory strips

If you are purchasing a RAM module for a powerful gaming computer, then you should pay attention to the type of cooling. During intensive work or “overclocking” by reducing the timings, they can heat up, so the work of the internal case fans may not be enough to cool them.

On simple strips there is no cooling at all - you will see open soldered microcircuit chips. On more expensive models, the most common type of cooling is installed - a metal radiator.

For the most avid gamers, they even came up with such a thing as water cooling - such modules, together with the system, can significantly exceed the cost of both the motherboard and processor combined.

Decoding the RAM module

Now let's decipher the name of the memory module presented in one of the popular online stores:

Crucial Ballistix Sport XT BLS2C4G3D18ADS3CEU DDR-III DIMM 8Gb KIT 2*4Gb PC3-14900 CL10

• So, manufacturer Cruisal, the kit consists of 2 modules of 4 Gb each.
• Memory standard DDR-III and DIMM form factor, that is, for a desktop PC.
• Bandwidth - 14900 Mb/s
• Timing - CL10
• In this case, you need to look at the detailed characteristics of the product, or calculate it yourself by dividing the bandwidth (14900) by 8.

Tips to follow when buying RAM

• It is worth buying RAM from trusted manufacturers. The price of branded brands is much higher, but the quality guarantee and stable operation of the computer are worth it. Here is a list of verified companies: Corsair, Kingston, Kingmax, Transcend, OCZ, Hynix, Hyundai, Samsung.
• RAM paired with a good quality chipset is the key to maximum performance, considering that the former has a maximum operating frequency.
• Remember that RAM should always be paired. It is necessary that the modules match in operating frequency; modules installed with different frequencies work at the memory frequency, which is the slowest of those that you installed, or do not work together at all. For example, if you have two channels for RAM and one of the slots has a 2GB stick, then you need to purchase another module with the same capacity, timings and from the same manufacturer.
  And the best option is to buy a set of modules (Kit), which is guaranteed by the manufacturer that these strips are compatible
• For gaming computers, preference should be given to RAM with the lowest time delays. Even at low frequencies, the memory always works at maximum efficiency.
• Be sure to ensure that your motherboard, processor, and operating system are compatible with the amount of memory you choose. If your computer system is 32-bit, then you should purchase a stick of no more than 4GB, since a 32-bit system sees up to 3GB of RAM.
• When purchasing memory to increase existing RAM, it would be better to purchase a model whose characteristics are similar to those installed in your computer. Purchasing a better or worse specification bar will lead to deterioration in computer performance.

In conclusion, here is a detailed video on installing a memory module in a computer.

Random access memory (RAM) or random access memory is a component of a personal computer or laptop that stores information (machine code, program) needed for immediate execution. Due to the small amount of this memory, the computer’s performance may drop significantly; in this case, users have a reasonable question - how to increase RAM on a computer with Windows 7, 8 or 10.

RAM can be added in two ways: installing an additional stick or using a Flash drive. It’s worth saying right away that the second option does not have such a significant effect on improving the performance of the computer, since the transfer speed via the USB port is not high enough, but it is still a simple and good way to increase the amount of RAM.

Method 1: Installing new RAM modules

First, let's look at installing RAM sticks in a computer, since this method is the most effective and frequently used.

Determining the type of RAM

First you need to decide on the type of RAM you have, since their different versions are incompatible with each other. Currently there are only four types:

• DDR2;
• DDR3;
• DDR4.

The first one is practically no longer used, as it is considered outdated, so if you bought a computer relatively recently, then you may have DDR2, but most likely DDR3 or DDR4. You can find out for sure in three ways: by the form factor, by reading the specification, or by using a special program.

Each type of RAM has its own design feature. This is necessary so that it is impossible to use, for example, DDR2 type RAM in computers with DDR3. This fact will help us determine the type. The picture below schematically shows four types of RAM, but it’s worth saying right away that this method is applicable only for personal computers; in laptops, the chips have a different design.

As you can see, there is a gap at the bottom of the board, and it is in a different place in each one. The table shows the distance from the left edge to the gap.

If you don’t have a ruler at hand or you definitely can’t tell the difference between DDR, DDR2 and DDR4, since the difference between them is small, it will be much easier to recognize the type by looking at the specification sticker, which is located on the RAM chip itself. There are two options: it will indicate the device type itself or the peak throughput value. In the first case, everything is simple. The image below shows an example of such a specification.

If you do not find such a designation on your sticker, then pay attention to the throughput value. It also comes in four different types:

As you might guess, they are fully DDR compliant. So, if you see the inscription PC3, this means that your RAM type is DDR3, and if PC2, then DDR2. An example is shown in the image below.

Both of these methods involve disassembling the system unit or laptop and, in some cases, removing the RAM from the slots. If you don’t want to do this or are afraid, you can find out the type of RAM using the program. By the way, this method is recommended for laptop users, since its parsing is much more difficult than a personal computer. So, download the application on your computer and follow these steps:

After this, the type of RAM you have will be indicated in the field to the right of the drop-down list. By the way, it is the same for each slot, so it doesn’t matter which one you choose.

Choosing RAM

If you decide to replace your RAM completely, then you need to understand its choice, since there are now a huge number of manufacturers on the market that offer various versions of RAM. They all differ in many respects: frequency, time between operations, multi-channel, the presence of additional elements, and so on. Now let's talk about everything separately

With RAM frequency, everything is simple - the more, the better. But there are also nuances. The point is that the maximum mark will not be reached if the motherboard has less bandwidth than the RAM. Therefore, before purchasing RAM, pay attention to this indicator. The same applies to memory sticks with frequencies above 2400 MHz. This high value is achieved through eXtreme Memory Profile technology, but if the motherboard does not support it, then the RAM will not produce the specified value. By the way, the time between operations is directly proportional to the frequency, so when choosing, focus on one thing.

Multichannel is the parameter that is responsible for the ability to simultaneously connect several memory sticks. This will not only increase the total amount of RAM, but will also speed up data processing, since the information will go to two devices at once. But there are several nuances to consider:

The heat exchanger can only be found in the memory of the latest generations, which have a higher frequency; in other cases, it is only a decorative element, so be careful when purchasing if you do not want to overpay.

If you do not completely replace the RAM, but only want to expand it by inserting additional sticks into the free slots, then it is highly advisable to buy RAM of the same model that you have installed.

Installing RAM into slots

Once you have decided on the type of RAM and purchased it, you can proceed directly to installation. Owners of a personal computer need to do the following:

After this, the installation of RAM can be considered complete. By the way, you can find out its quantity in the operating system; on our website there is an article devoted to this topic.

If you have a laptop, then it is impossible to offer a universal method for installing RAM, since different models have quite different design features from each other. It is also worth paying attention to the fact that some models do not support expandable RAM. In general, it is highly undesirable to disassemble a laptop yourself without any experience; it is better to entrust this task to a qualified specialist at a service center.

Method 2: ReadyBoost

ReadyBoost is a special technology that allows you to convert a Flash drive into RAM. This process is quite simple to implement, but it is worth considering that the bandwidth of a flash drive is an order of magnitude lower than RAM, so do not count on a significant improvement in the performance of your computer.

It is recommended to use a flash drive only as a last resort, when you need to increase the memory capacity for a short time. The fact is that any flash drive has a limit on the number of records it can perform, and if the limit is reached, it will simply fail.

Conclusion

As a result, we have two ways to increase the computer's RAM. Of course, it is better to purchase additional memory sticks, as this guarantees a huge increase in performance, but if you want to temporarily increase this parameter, you can use ReadyBoost technology.

Without a doubt, RAM It is considered one of the most important components of a laptop computer. If there is any difficulty with it, it brings a lot of problems to the user. In any case, all problems with RAM Problems can be resolved efficiently and quickly only in our service center. You can contact us with any question. Repairs of any complexity are carried out by specialists in the shortest possible time and, importantly, you no longer need to worry about what is the price repair or component. Our advantage is that we always use only original parts. We get them directly from the manufacturer’s factory, which means that we do not work with resellers, accordingly, price– low. View our price list. If suddenly you manage to find price less than ours, you will receive a discount.

Sometimes people come to us with a problem - it is necessary replacing RAM in a laptop. Naturally, this is an operation that requires a special approach. We don't recommend trying it on your own replace component, since such attempts in most cases lead to the failure of the entire laptop computer. We advise you to trust only specialists and not to act at your own risk and peril. Our gsmmoscow workshop has all the conditions for carrying out comprehensive diagnostics and repairs. High quality installation is possible only with us. In our warehouse there is a huge range of OP modules for models from different manufacturers. Addition memory can be produced quickly and efficiently. Thus, we can not only replace, but also modernize your equipment. And it doesn’t matter at all what brand of your laptop is -

Adding and increasing laptop RAM at a wholesale price. Only with us this is possible.

Many users are not satisfied with the volume RAM laptop computer, as it may not be enough to perform special resource-intensive tasks. Especially when it comes to engineering programs. There is still a way out, you can add RAM to laptop. But doing this is not so easy. Much more difficult than on a desktop computer. Would need installation new memory modules. The first thing that worries our clients is what is the price such a service. We can say with confidence that cost of increasing laptop RAM We really have the most affordable one.

Main advantages:

1. RAM installed and changed only by qualified specialists who undergo special training and have extensive experience.

2. Only original components are used in the work. Despite this, their price is minimal. We'll fix it HP, Asus, Acer, Sony Vaio, Samsung, Toshiba, Lenovo, Dell.

3. After the repair is completed, we will issue a warranty on all equipment for up to 1 year.

How long will it take to replace laptop RAM?

In terms of time, it takes about 20 minutes to replace the RAM in a laptop.

An example from life.

A client came to our workshop with a problem. The fact is that the installed memory was not enough for comfortable work. He wanted to increase his memory. Our specialists immediately began work. First of all, the laptop was diagnosed. By installing additional modules the problem was solved. Testing was carried out before the equipment was returned. As soon as we were convinced that everything was working perfectly, we issued a guarantee for a period of one year. Within an hour, the user was able to pick up his device and enjoy its excellent performance.

In the modern world, the amount of information processed increases exponentially every year. Consequently, the software being developed requires higher laptop performance to function properly. But it’s not only impractical to buy a new personal computer every few years, 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 and hard drive are added. Therefore, knowing how to increase laptop memory is simply necessary. This applies to both RAM (necessary for the operation of programs and systems) and the 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, more resources are required for the normal operation of the computer. 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. You can view this information 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 at any computer hardware store. 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 the battery from the laptop
• There is a special cover on the bottom of the case. It shows a drawing of the appearance of the RAM. Unscrew the fixing screw and remove it.
• Insert a free RAM card slot

This is a fairly simple operation for those who have encountered technology. For those who have self-doubt, it is better to contact a specialized center for the 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 an additional hard drive with you.

If you still decide to install a larger hard drive on your laptop computer, 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.
• Insert a new hard drive. 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!