How to install new RAM on a computer. Operating memory modes and the advantages of these modes

28.04.2019 Safety

Instructions

Determine how much memory is already installed. Go to the Start menu and select Settings, then Control Panel and System. Select the General tab. The amount of memory installed on your computer will be shown at the bottom of the page.

Determine what type and amount of memory you need to purchase. Check your user manual for the maximum amount of memory your computer can handle. The guide will also help you choose the type and speed of memory you need. Buy an operational memory online or at your local computer store.

Open the case computer... Refer to the instruction manual if necessary. Remove all metal rings, watches or. Turn off your computer, disconnect it from electrical outlet and then tap metal case to eliminate any static electricity... An antistatic wrist strap can also be used for this purpose.

Find the memory slots on the motherboard computer... If necessary, refer to the instruction manual. If there are no free slots, you will have to delete one or more of the installed cards memory to be able to add a new memory.

Install new memory... To do this, open the holders in the free slot and carefully insert the memory card into it. Make sure the memory card module is securely inserted into the slot and secure the holders.

Test the installed memory... Close the case and turn on the computer. If the computer starts to feed sound signal, means memory installed incorrectly. Then repeat step 5 to make sure that memory securely inserted into the slot. If the installation was successful, check that the system has detected a new amount of memory (step 1).

How can I find out the current amount of RAM?

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

V this moment we are interested in the volume - I have 2 slots on my laptop, both of which are occupied. The total size is 2000 MB (2GB), that is, the laptop has 2 strips of 1 GB each.

For normal daily work Windows is quite enough, but if you plan to play games with complex graphics or use heavy graphics or video programs, then it is advisable to put more.

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

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

Even when planning the volume to increase, you should find out from the characteristics of the motherboard or processor, which maximum size supported. This is indicated in detailed description in the memory section. So, in the model Intel Core i54430 maximum size is 32 GB.

For an office PC, which will only work with office documents, 1 GB of memory is enough.
For home to watch video, photo, use 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 from 32 will see no more than 3 GB.

Supported RAM type

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

As you can see from the above screen from the Speccy program, DDR3 memory is supported on my laptop, although today the most recent modern standard is DDR4.

Everything modern processors work with this particular standard, however, older boards can be found on older boards. If your computer is already many years old, then it is likely that it uses an outdated type and the memory module needs to be selected exactly of this standard. Memory modules different types 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 - it is also easy to find out these models in Speccy program or its analogues.

If you have spare RAM strips available, it is also sometimes difficult to determine which type it belongs to. 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 define it as follows.

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 is easy to count them as 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.

The number of slots for memory strips and their mode of operation

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

The multicolor tells us that on this board the memory can work in dual channel mode- that is, at the same time, data is transmitted to the controller to the processor, or north bridge(depending on) through 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 single-color connectors. Which ones? This is written in the instructions for the board and in different models colors may vary. If you buy 4 modules at once, then use all the slots at once.

It should also be borne in mind that if you currently have Common memory 2 GB, like mine, and you plan to increase it to 4 GB, then it is optimal to purchase 2 2 GB modules than one 4 GB, since you can use them to the maximum in dual-channel mode.

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

Clock frequency

Another important indicator memory - her clock frequency which is measured in megahertz (MHz). The speed of information processing depends on it. When choosing a module, be sure to check what frequency your processor officially supports. The model 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 the websites of online stores in the detailed description of memory modules. For example, let's look at a gaming set of 4 4 gig sticks Corsair XMS3 DDR-III DIMM 32Gb KIT 4 * 8Gb:

RAM bandwidth

The frequency also depends on such a parameter as throughput, which shows how much data can be transmitted as much as possible certain time... 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 can also be seen 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 working with memory, which maximum frequency 1600 MHz.

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

Timing

Here we can also say about such characteristics as timing. This is the time of delays in processing operations inside the chips of the RAM module. Timing is recorded as a sequence of several digits - in our example, it is 9-9-9-24. The last 4th two-digit parameter characterizes the speed of the entire microcircuit as a whole.

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

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

Gambling addicts can use BIOS settings and manually play with changing the timings downward, but this must be done carefully, otherwise you risk spoiling the modules.

RAM for a laptop or desktop computer?

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

On sites in the characteristics they are indicated as follows:

DIMM- for PC,
SODIMM- for the laptop.

Cooling type for memory strips

If you are purchasing a RAM module for a powerful gaming computer, then you should pay attention to the type of cooling. With intensive work or "overclocking" by decreasing the timings, they may heat up, so the work of the in-case fans to cool them may not be enough.

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

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

Decryption of 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, the manufacturer Cruisal, the kit consists of 2 modules of 4 Gb each.
DDR-III memory and DIMM form factor, that is, for a desktop PC.
Bandwidth - 14900 Mb / s
Timing - CL10
The frequency is needed in in this case look in detailed specifications goods, or calculate it yourself, dividing the throughput (14900) by 8.

Tips to Follow When Buying RAM

Buy RAM from trusted manufacturers. The price of brand names is much higher, but the quality assurance and stable computer performance are worth it. Here is a list of trusted firms: Corsair, Kingston, Kingmax, Transcend, OCZ, Hynix, Hyundai, Samsung.
RAM paired with a chipset good quality are the key to maximum performance, given that the former has a maximum operating frequency.
Remember, RAM should always be paired. It is necessary that the modules coincide in frequency of operation, the bars installed with different frequencies run at a memory frequency that is the slowest you have set, or do not work together at all. For example, if you have two channels for RAM and one of the slots has a 2GB bar, then you need to purchase another module with the same capacity, timings and from the same manufacturer.
A the best way- 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 a low frequency, the memory always works with maximum impact.
Remember to make sure your motherboard, processor, and operating system compatible with the memory size of your choice. If your computer system is 32-bit, then it is worth purchasing a bar of no more than 4GB, since a 32-bit system sees up to 3GB of RAM.
When purchasing memory to increase the RAM you already have, it will be better to purchase a model that has characteristics similar to those installed in your computer. Buying a better or worse bar in terms of characteristics will lead to a deterioration in computer performance.

In conclusion - detailed video on installing the memory module into the computer.

If your computer is slow, freezes when working with programs and games, then one of the optimal ways to improve its performance at the hardware level is the installation of additional RAM on the computer. In this article, we will look at step by step the process of adding, replacing RAM.

Choosing the right type of RAM

Before heading to the store to buy a new memory module, you need to find out what type of RAM your motherboard supports. There are the following types of RAM: DDR, DDR2, DDR3, DDR3 L and new type DDR4. They differ in size, so if you buy the wrong type, it simply won't fit into the connector. There is also a division by DIMM form factors(for desktop computers) and SODIMM (for laptops).

To find out the type, you need to carefully read the instructions for the motherboard. If you already have memory modules installed, take one and look for the parameter sticker. It indicates DDR type... Most modern computers have DDR2 and DDR3 memory installed.

We count the number of slots for RAM on the motherboard

The number of slots for memory modules on the motherboard can be 2,4,6,8, and even more on the server motherboard. Most motherboards have 2-4 connectors. You should pay attention to the maximum amount of memory that your motherboard supports.

Choosing a manufacturer

Many companies are involved in the development of RAM. The results of their labor differ in both price and quality. We do not recommend purchasing memory from little-known manufacturers.

V last years the following manufacturers are popular:

Corsair;

Kingston;

Hynix;

Crucial;

AMD Radion;

Samsung;

G.Skill;

NoName.

We purchase RAM

Going to buy at a specialized computer store, you need to know exactly what kind of RAM you need and whether it will be compatible with the motherboard.

Preparing to install RAM

Step 1... Turn off the power to the computer. Disconnect all cables and cords connected to the back of the chassis.

(Monitor, mouse, keyboard, etc.)

Step 2... Remove the side cover from the case. Position the computer case for comfortable handling. It will be most convenient if you lay it on its side. Free up access to the motherboard by gently pushing aside the adjacent wires.

Step 3... Next, you need to get rid of static charges. They can damage installed components on the motherboard. To do this, simply touch the body or the battery with your hand. For some, this advice may seem ridiculous, someone will say that nothing will happen and nothing will be damaged, but as the saying goes, "God takes care of him," so it is better to play it safe and heed the advice.

Step 4... Locate the RAM connectors on the motherboard. V modern boards manufacturers make 2, 4 connectors. They are equal in size and parallel to each other. You can see how they look in the photo below.

Step 5... If you change old memory to the new one, then you need to extract the old module. Press down gently on the two outermost white latches. The module is released and can be easily removed.

Step 6... Take new bar memory, while trying not to touch the microcircuits and contacts located on it.

Installing RAM

If you have one memory module or several modules of different sizes, then insert them into any slot, skip everything that is written below and go to step 7.

Modern motherboards are capable of operating in two, three, four channel modes. The advantage of using multichannel mode is that two, three, or four channels interact with each other, increasing throughput. This significantly speeds up the system.

Most budget motherboards come with dual channel mode. The connectors may be the same color, but they often differ and alternate. For example, blue, black, blue black. Yellow, red, yellow, red.

To make the RAM work in dual channel mode, you must install the same memory modules in sockets of the same color.

For example, if you have two 1 GB strips, then they need to be inserted into connectors of the same color, let's say blue.

When it is said about the installation of the same modules, this means that they should not only be of the same volume, but also the same in their technical specifications(frequency, latency, timing, manufacturer).

In order not to be mistaken, it is better to buy a set of two or four strips.

The operative memory is madam capricious. Alone, she is not capable of much, but she is extremely picky in choosing a pair: they say, do not add anyone to me. Moreover, the quarrelsome nature of RAM can make itself felt both immediately after the appearance of a neighbor, and over time. For example, when you urgently need a computer.

Today we will put all the points on the "Yo" in the questions of whether it is possible to combine different planks RAM on one PC, is it possible joint work RAM different generations, types, volume, frequency and manufacturers. And if possible, then under what conditions.

Link between generations

My motherboard has generations of RAM slotsDDR2 andDDR3. Is it possible to install both types of dies on it?

The unequivocal answer is no. Such hybrid modifications of motherboards were produced at the turn of the transition from the DDR2 to DDR3 standard. They are able to work with either DDR2 memory at 667, 800 and 1066 mHz, or DDR3 at 1066 and 1333 mHz. If you install DDR2 and DDR3 together on such a board (of course, in slots of your own type), the computer will not start.

DDR3 + DDR3L =?

Is it possible to sharing two modulesRAM, one of whichDDR-3 and the second one isDDR-3L? How does the second differ from the first?

DDR3 memory long time was the uncontested choice. And only shortly before DDR4 hit the market saw the light of its new modification- DDR3L. The letter "L" in the name of the latter means "low voltage" - low voltage.

DDR3L is powered by 1.35 V, while its predecessor consumes 1.5 V - this is their main difference. Externally, the strips of both types will look the same.

The DDR3L standard is fully compatible with motherboards and processors designed for DDR3, but not vice versa. So, Intel processors Skylake S microarchitectures do not officially support DDR 3, although they do support DDR 3L.

It is sometimes possible to use modules of both types together, but not desirable. All the memory installed in the slots of one motherboard is powered from the same voltage level, so only one of the strips will be in optimal conditions. Computers with this RAM configuration are usually unstable, and some do not turn on at all.

Volumes and channels

I want to install RAM in all 4 slots, does the size of each module matter? Which combination will perform faster - 4 x 2GB, 2 x 4GB, or 1 x 8GB?

The only requirement for the amount of RAM is that it does not exceed the maximum allowable, otherwise the computer will not turn on or some of the memory will remain unused. Claims that all RAM should be of the same capacity is a myth. There is never a lot of it, so bet as much as you want.

All modern desktops and many laptops support multi-channel RAM. With this method of organization, access to memory goes not one by one, but along several parallel lines, which significantly increases the performance of the machine.

Motherboards with four RAM slots (the most common type) operate in dual-channel mode, that is, they have 2 connectors for 1 channel.

Of the three combinations presented, the second will be the fastest - 2 strips of 4 GB each, if you distribute them one per channel. Why two and not four? because actual speed data exchange between the controller and each RAM module is not the same, and the more strips, the more time it takes to synchronize them.

In order for the RAM modules to work in multichannel mode, they must be:

Same frequency.
About the same capacity (slight differences are sometimes acceptable).
One type (for example, only DDR3 or DDR3L).

And their total number must be even.

By the way, the RAM slots of one channel are often made in one color. But not always. To find out where they are located on your motherboard, it is better to look at its instructions.

Frequencies and timings

Can it be combined with different timings? If so, what frequency do they operate on?

Can. Each unit of RAM stores information about the supported frequencies and timings internally (in the SPD chip). The memory controller reads this data and selects the mode in which all modules can operate. As a rule, these are the frequency and timings of the slowest of them.

Different manufacturers

Do I have to buy RAM from one manufacturer?

It is advisable to purchase RAM not just of one brand, but factory sets of several modules. These devices have been jointly tested and are guaranteed to be able to work together.

It happens that RAM of the same brand and model, purchased separately, cannot "find mutual language". It also happens vice versa, when devices of different origin demonstrate excellent teamwork... As luck would have it, but the first option is rather an exception. Most often, dies from different manufacturers with similar characteristics are compatible.

So, the top solutions "How to add RAM to your computer?"

The highlighted methods (software and hardware upgrades of RAM) can be used as independent from each other or correctly interacting solutions. It is worth noting that an integrated approach is preferable to a simple action - to add one or more to a free slot. A little later, you will find out why.

Method number 1: Bought, installed, launched

For stable work operating room Windows system 7 requires 1.5 GB of RAM. Typically, the purchased office configuration PC has two gigabytes of RAM. For resource-intensive programs (video editors or computer games) this volume is not always sufficient. Consequently, the user has a need to expand the capabilities of the RAM. However, before implementing such a scenario for a hardware upgrade, you need to ask the question: "Can I add more RAM?" Since in the case when you are using 32-bit Windows version, the added two or more gigabytes to the current amount of RAM may simply not be used by the system due to some restrictions initiated by the BIOS firmware. Another unpleasant moment for the user may be the discrepancy between the purchased memory module and the typical motherboard connector. In other words, before going to the store, you need to know exactly what kind of RAM is supported by your PC or laptop, as well as the technical characteristics of the installed memory.

Forced valuable retreat

Often a question of interest to a beginner: how much RAM costs, needs some specification. Since in modern computing technology there are several types of RAM: DDR, DDR2, DDR3, which, in turn, have a number of significant differences. Depending on the manufacturer and the technical characteristics of the memory, the cost of the product also varies. However, using the example of the Kingston brand, a certain price comparison can be made. different types produced RAM.

DDR2 for 1 GB - about 1400 rubles, and 2 GB will cost 2300 rubles;
DDR3 for 2 GB - will cost 1900 rubles, 4 GB - 3100 rubles, but 8 GB of RAM of this type- 6400 rubles;
SODIMM DDR2 2 GB - 1800 rubles;
SODIMM DDR3 for 4 GB - 3200 rubles, and for 8 GB the price will be around 6200 rubles.

In addition to information about how much RAM costs, you will also find something else useful: each type of "RAM" in its segment is subdivided according to technical characteristics: nominal volume, bus bandwidth and data exchange rate (frequency), which are performance indicators and the effectiveness of a particular modification. Laptop computers use a similar memory, but slightly modified and designated SODIMM, which is, in fact, a kind of RAM. By the way, the cost of the "minimized" memory practically does not differ from the stationary version. True, some modifications of laptop memory modules still bypass their "desktop counterparts" in price.

Installing an additional memory stick

To equip with another RAM module, follow the guidelines below. As a result, you will receive a practical answer to the question: "How to add RAM to the computer."

one). Disconnect from electrical source nutrition.

2). Typically, access to internal components The PC is carried out by unscrewing the group of fixing screws that hold the protective cover of the device. Important: if you open the system unit yourself, you will no longer have to rely on a guarantee. As when opening the cover, you will inevitably damage the service seals.

3). Install new module memory into the corresponding slot. If there are several of them, pay attention to the marking of the connectors. Usually the correct sequence is indicated as digital value... In some cases, a special order of installed memory sticks is provided. Interacting connectors (for example, 2 modules from one manufacturer and 2 from another) are painted in two different colors.

First congratulations! Now you know how to add RAM correctly.

Portable solution

In spite of design features laptop, the process of installing RAM is, in general, a fairly simple step ... if you have a thin Phillips screwdriver.

one). Turn off portable PC and de-energize it.

2). Retrieve battery from the device.

3). Consider carefully back part laptop - grooved or inscribed designation, in the form of "DIMM" or "MEMORY" - this is the place where the RAM is located.

4). Unscrew the cover retaining screws and carefully pry off the edge of the protective cover.

5). Install additional memory and close the cover.

Method number 2: flash drive as additional RAM

On Windows 7 and its functional complement Ready Boost, a hybrid option for expanding RAM resources will be considered.

Insert the USB stick into the USB port of your PC or laptop. Format the removable media partition. Place the marker on the shortcut of the flash drive and, while holding down the right mouse button, call context menu from which select "Properties". In the window that opens, go to the Ready Boost tab. Activate the checkbox "Use this device", then click "Apply" and "OK".

As you can see, the question is: "How do I add RAM to my computer?" can be resolved by this method as well.

Method number 3: Optimize RAM

By installing on your PC special utility Memory Booster, you will speed up your OS significantly. Despite its small size and compact interface, the program can easily cope with the optimization of RAM, freeing up the PC RAM backed up by various software. This significantly improves the performance of the system. The utility always runs in background... So control over especially "gluttonous" programs will be organized very vigilantly.

Method number 4: Virtual OS memory

This method is exclusively software tool increasing RAM. Standard Windows Tool provides for the expansion of operational resources through the allocation of a certain disk space for needs temporary files... Not to be confused and special virtual partition OS, this is essential various services... generated OS, has a value equal to the volume installed RAM... When physical memory not enough, the system uses virtual amounts of RAM. The paging file size can be either reduced or increased. It all depends on the needs of the user.

Practical solution

one). Open the start menu.

2). Hold the marker on the "Computer" section and right click mouse call context list, from which go to the item "Properties".

3). While in the "System" service window, activate the link "Additional parameters" on the left.

4). In the "Performance" block, click on the button.

5). After going to the "Options" window, click on the "Advanced" tab.

If you activate the "Change" button, you will be given the opportunity to make changes to the default settings.

Finally

“So how much RAM can you add?” You ask. The meaning is strictly predetermined. It all depends on functionality your motherboard. The BIOS version also has big influence on the "hardware perception" of the PC. Finally, a 64-bit operating system removes almost all restrictions on the amount of RAM. But, as you know, in such a situation, the OS is a secondary instance. Therefore, only the BIOS determines whether it is capable of motherboard"accept" the desired amount of RAM. So before upgrading your PC, please check technical certificate computer.