Increase RAM on HP laptop. Increasing RAM using a flash drive: prerequisites. How to test a new RAM

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.

Please note that to work with more than three gigabytes of RAM on a laptop, you will need to install the 64-bit version operating system Windows, if on this moment 32-bit is 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.

A free utility called CPU-Z will help with this, which shows in great detail all the information about your 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?

1. 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.
2. The Memory tab shows detailed information about the total amount of memory, its type and timings.
3. The Mainboard tab displays details about motherboard devices. This data will help you find on the Internet all the characteristics of the board and its chipset, 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 lid. 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 warranty service. We need to keep this in mind.

Sequencing

How to 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.

My laptop has 4GB of RAM, but this volume is not enough for me. How can I increase its volume??

Alexander Morkhin

To make your laptop work better, you need to know how to properly increase your laptop's RAM. “Correct” in this case means that the stick of RAM you purchased will be compatible with motherboard, processor and already installed module random access memory.

How to choose the right new bar

Before you go shopping for an additional stick, see if you can increase the RAM on your laptop. If you have an old laptop, then its motherboard may simply not support more RAM. Let's find out the model of the motherboard and look at its specifications on the manufacturer's website:

1. Download CPU-Z utility(it will still be needed to determine the number of free slots).
2. Launch the program and go to the "Mainboard" tab.
3. Check your motherboard model.
4. Find information about your motherboard on the laptop manufacturer's website.

In the motherboard specification, you need to pay attention to the points related to RAM.

From the information provided you should get the following information:

• Supported type: DDR3. If the laptop is old, then it may have DDR2 or DDR1 memory. They are interchangeable, so you need to buy only those brackets whose type is compatible with the motherboard.
• The maximum allowed volume is 64 GB. There is no point in installing anymore extra gigabytes will not be used.
• Supported frequency is from 800 to 1800 MHz. The RAM frequency should fit within this range and be as high as possible.
• 4 x DIMM - number of slots for strips with SO-DIMM form factor.

What characteristics should the new bar have?

For maximum compatibility It’s better to immediately purchase sets of two identical modules. If you bet one additional bar, then it must completely match the characteristics of the already installed module.

1. Launch CPU-Z.
2. Go to the "Memory" tab.

Let's check the type again - DDR3. Pay attention to the line “DRAM Frequency” - it indicates the bandwidth.

Timing (delay before executing a request) is shown below:

You need to buy a stick of RAM with exactly the same characteristics. If nothing is displayed when you select a slot on the “SPD” tab, then nothing is connected to it, that is, you can install additional module RAM. Basically, that's all you need to know about how to increase your RAM. However, there is another way to speed up a video card - overclocking.

Increasing the video card frequency

If you calculate how much it costs to increase RAM, it becomes clear that this is a serious financial investment in upgrading a laptop. However, if you look at it, you don’t have to buy an additional stick of RAM.

Increasing the frequency (overclocking, overclocking) is performed in the “Advanced” section. Depending on motherboard model and version BIOS firmware the names of specific items change. Let's see how to increase the amount of RAM in the BIOS, using the example of an ASUS motherboard:

After expanding the item where the RAM frequency is indicated, you will see the available values.

Do not set a value that exceeds the maximum acceptable indicator for your RAM model, otherwise the stick may burn out.

After increasing the frequency, run a memory test. Press Win+R and type the command “mdsched”. Agree to perform a reboot, during which the RAM will be checked for errors. If no errors are found, you can increase the frequency a little more without exceeding the maximum permissible values.

When the computer runs out of free RAM, the system begins to “drain” information onto HDD, which is why performance in applications begins to deteriorate greatly. Even the fastest SSD drive is slower than the poorest RAM, so sooner or later the user is faced with the fact that it is necessary to upgrade the RAM to improve system performance. If you have a laptop and want to boost its memory a little, in this article we have collected tips that will be useful to you in this matter.

First of all, make sure that it is the RAM you need to change. During your traditional work with your computer, open Task Manager, go to the tab Performance and look at the volume used memory. If it is constantly above 90%, the decrease in performance may be due to lack of memory.

What RAM does a laptop need?

Exists a large number of memory options, but navigating through all of this is not that difficult. The main thing is not to make a mistake with the type and form factor of the memory, and also to be sure that your PC manufacturer actually allows you to upgrade the memory. It will be unpleasant if you buy new memory sticks, and then it turns out that the RAM is soldered to the motherboard and is not updated. Yes, in modern computers This option is becoming increasingly common, especially in ultrabooks. Even if you open the cover and find the memory, there is a high probability that you will not be able to change it. That is why it is important to carefully weigh everything when choosing a laptop or tablet. On devices with dedicated memory on the motherboard, the only way to increase the laptop's RAM is to purchase a more powerful model.

Finding out whether your computer supports replacing RAM is quite simple. Turn the computer over and try to find the cover on the bottom with a mark in the form of a memory stick or hard drive. Manufacturers that allow memory upgrades often allow you to get to the RAM without having to completely open the computer. If there is such a cover, feel free to unscrew the bolts and open it. RAM will be hidden under it (often you can also find a hard drive or SSD there), securely fixed in its slots. If there is no separate cover for the RAM, you may need to remove the entire bottom of the laptop. In this case, it is better to turn to online reviews and check whether the memory in your computer can actually be replaced. If not, there is no need to open the belly of your laptop once again.

For your information: Some manufacturers will void the user's warranty if he breaks the seals on the laptop cover bolts. Keep this in mind if your PC is still under warranty. If you do not want to lose your warranty, you can contact the service center, but this procedure will cost extra money. Which path to take is up to you to choose.

If you decide to change the memory with your on our own, you now need to take into account several important points so as not to waste time and money.

If the RAM is working in two-channel mode(two memory sticks are installed in two slots), it will have to be replaced as a set, since different models Memory with different sizes, frequencies and timings may simply refuse to work simultaneously. If two slots are available, but only one stick is installed (for example, 4 GB of DDR3 memory), it would be most reasonable to purchase a similar memory stick. It would be best to remove the memory from the slot and look at its markings. The memory dies are held in place by clamps on both sides. Separate them, after which the memory will be freed. Simply lift it up at a 45 degree angle and remove it from the mount. A sticker with markings must be affixed to the chip. You need to find specific name and memory model, and then enter it into the search to find it in stores. For example, Kingston SODIMM DDR3-1600 4096MB PC3-12800 (KVR16S11S8/4). 4096MB is the memory capacity, DDR3 is the memory standard. 1600 is the effective frequency, measured in megahertz. SODIMM is a memory form factor. PC3-12800 (KVR16S11S8/4) – memory model identifier. When purchasing an additional die to an existing one, it is very important to make sure that all the characteristics match, otherwise the dies “will not work.” Your best bet is to simply copy the model number and find it in the store. In this case, the memory will be 100% compatible.

Advice: 4+4 GB with two sticks is better than 1 stick with 8 GB. In dual-channel mode, memory works much more efficiently. Buy 1 die only if you are sure that you will buy another one in the near future. If not, it is better to choose two dies with a smaller volume. This configuration will be more useful.

If you change two sticks of RAM at once, the choice of memory is much wider. First of all, it is important that you buy memory of a supported standard and form factor. Laptops are equipped with SODIMM memory (stores sometimes designate it as “for laptops”). It is more compact than the usual DIMM dies that you can find in traditional computers. Make no mistake! Regular RAM cannot be plugged into a laptop slot, just as laptop memory cannot be plugged into a desktop motherboard.

SODIMM and DIMM memory. The difference is obvious.

DDR2, DDR3, DDR4 – all this different generations random access memory. They are not backwards compatible! You cannot install DDR4 memory into a computer that comes native with DDR3 memory or vice versa. The key jumper of DDR4 memory contacts does not match with DDR3, as well as with DDR2.

With the parameter of frequency and its volume it is already easier. To choose the right memory and capacity, look at the website of your processor manufacturer (enter the processor model in the search and look at it official specifications(or go to the computer manufacturer's website). This will allow you to check what maximum memory size and frequency is supported. For example, a maximum of 16 GB DDR3-1600 MHz.

All that remains is to find a set of memory that meets the specifications of your computer in the store and purchase it. Choose the manufacturer according to your taste or based on user reviews/reviews. Notebook memory has fewer requirements than memory in regular PCs, so buying bad memory while knowing the required frequency, volume, standard and form factor will be very problematic. Keep in mind that the cost of memory kits will differ not only depending on its volume, but also on the frequency and timings. Often more fast memory for laptops it costs a little more, as does memory with lower timings. Focus on your own budget and preferences.

How to install RAM in a laptop

Once the memory is purchased and ready to be installed, it's time to replace it. This is very simple procedure, which will take you no more than 15 minutes of time.

This completes the memory replacement procedure. You don't need to configure, optimize or change anything. If you did not make a mistake when selecting memory, the BIOS itself will detect new RAM and the computer will turn on as usual. In the task manager after this you can see your new memory and enjoy the increased amount of available RAM.

Laptops are essentially the same computers, only portable. Because of this useful property, like mobility, you have to sacrifice something. IN in this case You sacrifice their maintainability and power. Unfortunately, the processor in them, like the video chip, cannot be changed, but you can increase the amount of RAM. Most more or less modern laptops have two RAM slots, often only one of them is occupied, which allows you to expand the RAM.

Today, laptops can have up to 32 GB of RAM, but if you decide to increase the volume, you probably have less RAM. The biggest disadvantage of all laptops is that you need to disassemble them with caution, one awkward movement and you can bend a contact somewhere, and this, in turn, is fraught with a short circuit. You don’t need to be an electrician or a person versed in technology to understand what exactly a short circuit leads to. In this case, it will result from burnt fuses, or even a completely burnt-out motherboard. So be careful!

Increasing the amount of RAM on laptops

First, I would like to start with the basics. If you have a very old laptop and it only has 1-2 GB of RAM, but technical specifications it supports as many as four gigabytes, you should know one thing. Above 3.5 GB of RAM you need to install a 64-bit operating system.

It should also be mentioned that there are different types memory. At the time of writing, there are four of them - DDR1 - DDR5. They differ from each other in different frequencies and, accordingly, speed of operation.

Also, RAM can be one-, two-, three- and four-channel. That is, one, two, three or four slots work together. The more threads, the higher the final computing speed. The performance gains are especially noticeable in games. graphic editors and browsers (if a large number of tabs are open).

How to find out what type of RAM is in my laptop

There are two options here - unscrew the laptop, remove the cover and look at the sticker on the RAM for its type - it will indicate both the frequency at which it operates and the type. The second option is simpler - software, just download free utility called CPU-Z. You decide. If you want to expand the capacity of the RAM, you will still have to unscrew the cover and remove the memory from there. let's consider software method:

Determining the number of RAM slots on a laptop

Now we need to determine the number of slots in the laptop. Because how to expand the amount of RAM if you only have one slot? In this case, we will simply have to install a bar with a large amount of memory instead of the one currently installed. To determine the number of slots, you need:

The most interesting thing remains - to set the second bar. According to technical characteristics this laptop Supports up to 6 gigabytes of RAM. In other words, we can set the bar to another two gigabytes and the laptop will work more quickly.

How to install RAM on a laptop

Depending on the manufacturer and specific model In a laptop, the amount of RAM increases in different ways, or rather, in some places it’s harder to get to the memory slots, and in others it’s easier.

For example, with regard to ASUS laptops, you will need to completely remove back cover, and then the keyboard, after which you can insert the bar next to the first one.

On some older laptops everything is much simpler; there is a separate section where the RAM is:


As you can see, with good instructions you can easily cope with this non-trivial task, like increasing the amount of RAM on a laptop.

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 games you need 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 due to the desire of manufacturers laptop computers place everything as compactly as possible - and this is usually enough for the average user, who requires from the device, first of all, mobility, and not 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 game models MSI brand with 16–32 GB of memory. True, their price will be no less than 100–150 thousand rubles, which is unlikely to suit regular user, who would prefer to better 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 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 buying memory and increasing it, you should check whether this can be done, as well as the type of RAM and required amount slats. 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 more later versions 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 performance a paired arrangement is required, i.e. 2 or 4 identical ones), and there are no other slots at all, to increase the volume you will need to complete replacement. 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 parameters 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 approximate cost memory, and evaluate your capabilities 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 rates from 1333 to 1866 million operations per second. Others already support more high 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 great benefit there will be no such 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 in a regular store point of sale.

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 Asus type To do this, you will have to remove the entire back cover and remove other elements that interfere with replacing or adding RAM. Most often this applies to compact devices – mini-laptops and netbooks.