Your motherboard has a limit to the number of RAM sticks you can install. Some motherboards support only two, while others support four, six, or even more. Most motherboards have a limit to the amount of memory that they support, regardless of the number of slots. It’s also important to note that not all PCs are upgradeable, so if you’re not sure, check with your PC’s manufacturer. This is often the case with laptops There’s no guarantee that unmatching RAM will work together. So if you’re buying multiple sticks of RAM, buy it in a set of two or more that are identical.
You can ground yourself by touching a metal part on your computer case while it is unplugged from the wall. Simply being turned off does not remove any standby voltages, so make sure it’s unplugged. Don’t stand on carpet while working on the interior of the computer.
If you’re having to pull too hard, the clamps are likely not down far enough. You may need to use one hand to push the clamps down while using the other hand to remove the RAM.
Make sure matching pairs are inserted into their matching sockets. Some are labeled on the board or by color, though you may need to refer to your motherboard layout diagram. Repeat the process for each stick of RAM you want to install. While you have the PC open, remove dust using a bottle of compressed air. This can be a quick fix for general overheating and performance issues. Compressed air cans are available at any office supply store.
If your PC will not boot, the RAM is probably not seated properly. Power down your PC and re-open it. Then, remove and reseat the RAM. Make sure it clicks firmly into place and then try again.
Operating systems calculate memory differently and some computers dedicate a certain amount of RAM to specific functions (e. g. , video), decreasing the amount available. For example, you may have purchased 8 GB of RAM, but you’ll likely only see about 7. 78 GB of usable memory.
Operating systems calculate memory differently and some computers dedicate a certain amount of RAM to specific functions (e. g. , video), decreasing the amount available. For example, you may have purchased 8 GB of RAM, but you’ll likely only see about 7. 78 GB of usable memory.
To run the tool, press the Windows key on the keyboard and type memory into the search bar. Click Windows Memory Diagnostic to launch the tool, and then click Restart now and check for problems to run diagnostics.
Because the inner components can run quite hot, Apple recommends waiting at least ten minutes before installing RAM in your iMac.
27" and 21" models (2012 or later): Press the small gray button just above the power port to open the memory compartment door. Lift the door off of the back of the monitor and set it aside. Then, push the two levers outward (to the sides) to release the memory cage, and pull the levers toward you to see the RAM slots. 20" and 17" models (2006 only): Use a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew both screws on the memory access door, which is on the bottom edge of the monitor. Set it aside once removed. Then, press the two ejector clips on either edge of the access door outward (to the sides). Other models: Use a Philips head screwdriver to remove the screw at the center of the memory access door. The door is on the bottom edge of the monitor. Remove the door completely and set it aside. Untuck the tabs in the memory compartment so they are visible.
27" and 21" models (2012 or later): Pull the RAM straight out upward. It should easily come out of the slot. Make sure to note the direction of the notch so you know how to insert the new RAM. 20" and 17" models (2006 only): Simply pull the RAM outward to remove it, noting its direction so you can properly insert the new RAM. Other models: Gently pull the tab toward you to eject memory that’s currently installed. Note the orientation of the RAM because you’ll want to install the new RAM the same way.
27" and 21" models (2012 or later): Align the RAM over the slot with the notch pointing downward. It will line up with the notch inside the slot. Press downward until the RAM clicks into place. 20" and 17" models (2006 only): Slide the RAM notch-side-in into the slot. Use your thumbs to press the RAM in until you feel a slight click. Press both ejector clips back inward to lock the RAM into place. Other models: Slide the RAM into the slot with the notch pointing upward (toward the top of the monitor). When you push it in far enough, you’ll feel a slight click.
If you pressed a button to unlock the door, you don’t have to press the button to put it back on.
If you’re using a Mac laptop, visit https://support. apple. com/en-us/HT201165 to find out what type of RAM you’ll need to purchase.
If you’re using a Mac, click the Apple menu at the top-left corner and select Shut Down. If you’re using Windows, click the Windows menu, select the Power button, and then choose Shut Down.
Most notebooks only have one or two RAM slots. Higher-end notebooks may have more. You will need a very small Phillips-head screwdriver in order to remove the panel (if the panel is required to remove).
If you have multiple free slots, install RAM in the lowest number first.
If you’re using a PC and concerned that the RAM wasn’t installed properly, press the Windows key on the keyboard and type memory into the search bar. Click Windows Memory Diagnostic to launch the tool, and then click Restart now and check for problems to run diagnostics.
