Numerology 

How to increase RAM on a laptop: tips. Increasing laptop RAM: step by step

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 it has one) has a certain amount of RAM (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.
Low computer performance when several programs are running simultaneously is a sure sign of a 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 specifications 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 have a 32-bit processor and the 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 the laptop's motherboard, usually on 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.

We will have a "guinea pig" Asus laptop A2500H with DDR RAM type. 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.



On last photo it is clear 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? With sufficient force we move the top panel to the left... after which it can be completely removed perfectly:


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 additional memory installed...


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 an Acer Aspire 5315 laptop 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, right-click on the “ My computer" and select properties. See the data in “ Memory (RAM)».

Of course there are many various features in various laptop models. 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 an Asus laptop

Installing RAM in a Toshiba laptop

Installing RAM in an Acer laptop

Instructions

Find out from the owner's manual where exactly the RAM modules are located on the machine. They can be either under or under the lid located at the bottom. Some machines have some modules located under the keyboard, and the other under the cover.

To remove the keyboard, close the computer (after making sure that there are no objects between the keyboard and the screen that could crush the latter!), and then remove the hinge covers. Then open it, remove the bezel located above the indicators, and carefully lift the keyboard by the top. Do not disconnect the cable located below. Do not move the computer with the keyboard elevated to avoid tearing off the cable. Do not close while this unit is disassembled.

Remove the cover located on the reverse side by removing one or two screws with a regular screwdriver. Do this only with the keyboard assembly assembled and closed. If you need to change the RAM modules both under the cover and under the keyboard, first reassemble after the previous procedure.

To remove the memory module, lightly pull in different directions on the metal latches located on each side of it. One of its sides will lift up and you can easily remove it. Memorize or sketch how it was installed.

Take the module with you to the store or market to buy a second one (if there are free slots), or exchange it with an additional payment for another one with a larger volume.

To install the module, insert it with its contacts into the recess of the slot, taking into account the location of the key, and then press it from the opposite side until it clicks.

Assemble your laptop in reverse order, connect the peripherals and power supply. Check its functionality. Using the Memtest86+ program, make sure that the amount of memory has actually increased and that the new module does not contain bad cells.

Video on the topic

Sources:

  • how to install memory on a laptop

Operational modules memory directly affect computer performance. The central processor receives all the information necessary for work directly from the operating system. memory.

You will need

  • Speccy program.

Instructions

To connect new modules memory Certain conditions must be met. First, select the boards yourself. To do this, determine their type by studying the instructions for the motherboard. To do this, use the paper version or visit the website of the manufacturer of this device. Find out the type of RAM cards your motherboard works with. If you couldn't find necessary information, then install the Speccy program by downloading it from www.piriform.com.

Run this utility and go to the "RAM" menu. Find out the type of boards used. These can be DIMM or DDR modules (1,2 or 3). Be sure to check the volume memory installed boards and their clock speed. Check the number of free slots for installing modules memory. You can also get all this information when working with the Speccy program.

Laptops have gained great popularity among users due to their compactness and mobility. However, these advantages have reverse side. Manufacturers often release to the market not the most balanced configuration, often saving primarily on RAM. You can increase its volume yourself if you know how to do it correctly.

Before increasing the amount of memory, you need to find out whether it is possible to do this at all. For example, some new budget laptop models are released with motherboard, which has only one slot for RAM. Accordingly, the amount of RAM cannot be increased by simply adding another memory stick. You can only replace an already installed module with another, larger one.

In most cases, a laptop has two RAM slots. Moreover, the manufacturer can complete the product with two identical memory modules installed in both slots. In this case, you will have to sacrifice one of the memory sticks in order to install another, larger one, along with it.

You should also take into account the bitness of the operating system. 32 bit Windows Does not detect memory volume greater than 3.5 GB. Another problem may arise if the owner wants to expand the memory on a laptop that is still under warranty. Since the laptop must be opened to increase the memory capacity, this may result in denial of warranty service. Therefore, in this case, it is better to contact an authorized service center manufacturer to resolve this issue.

It should be borne in mind that modern laptop models often require almost complete disassembly in order to gain access to the RAM slots. You should also keep in mind that it happens that the laptop motherboard only supports memory that operates at a reduced supply voltage. It is marked with the letter L in the name. May be designated, for example, DDR3L.

Main characteristics of RAM

Before purchasing a memory module, you first need to find out what type is used in your laptop. The most common types:

  • DDR2, operating frequencies 133, 166 and 200 MHz;
  • DDR3, operating frequencies from 400 to 1066 MHz;
  • DDR4, operating frequencies from 1600 to 3200 Mg.

On a note! have almost gone out of use and can be found in very ancient laptops. New sticks of this type have not been produced for a long time, therefore, if DDR memory is required, you will have to buy such parts secondhand, through advertisements and online flea markets.

Another important parameter is timings, which should be taken into account when choosing a module. We should not forget that the memory format for laptops has the SO index. That is, in online stores you need to look for products marked SO-DIMM.

How to determine the type of memory installed in a laptop

To find out exactly what memory is used in the device, you can use several methods.

Visual inspection

The easiest and most reliable way is to disassemble the laptop, remove the installed memory module and read the markings that are on it. On the one hand, you will have to disassemble the laptop, on the other hand, sooner or later you will have to do this in order to install an additional module.

This method also accurately provides information about the number of RAM slots that are available on the motherboard.

Operating system software

IN operating systems Windows 8 and 10, you can get basic information about the hardware configuration through the “Task Manager”.

In it you need to select the “Performance” tab and then the “Memory” option. The following information will be displayed:

  1. The total amount of memory installed in the laptop.
  2. Memory type - DDR2, DDR3 or DDR4.
  3. Frequency.
  4. The volume that is currently being used by the system.
  5. Number of slots and their use.

Using special utilities

The most can be obtained using special diagnostic and test utilities that provide the user with the most complete information about the installed equipment. These programs are usually used:

  • Everest;
  • AIDA64;
  • CPU-Z.

Let's take a closer look at working with the CPU-Z program.

UsageCPU-Z

This convenient utility can be downloaded from the official website of the developer. The program is completely free. After installation, run the program with administrator rights.

The main operating window is displayed. In it you need to select the SPD tab. The most full information about RAM – its type, volume, frequency, timings and other parameters. This data is provided separately for each RAM module that is installed. The “Slot” tab allows you to select memory modules installed in a specific slot on the laptop board and display information for each of them. The Mainboard tab may be useful. Information about the motherboard and chipset is displayed here. Based on this information, you can further determine what maximum memory capacity and frequency your laptop supports.

How to install a memory module in a laptop

To correctly perform the procedures for installing memory into your device, you should adhere to the following algorithm:

  1. Shut down the laptop and disconnect it from the power adapter, remove the battery.
  2. Carefully unscrew the screws from the cover of the compartment where the RAM is installed and open the cover.
  3. Install the memory module into the free slot, making sure it is completely inserted into the connector until it is secured with the latches.
  4. Replace the back cover.
  5. Turn on the laptop and check the amount of RAM first in the BIOS, then in the operating system.

If everything is done correctly, the user will see a new, increased amount of RAM. Often, the result of such an upgrade can be seen by launching a new toy or resource-intensive program.

A laptop often leads to a significant increase in system performance. However, before carrying out such an upgrade, you must select the correct memory type. You also need to keep in mind that there will be operations to disassemble the laptop. It is better for inexperienced users to trust such actions to specialists or watch several training videos.

Video - How to increase laptop RAM

Video - How to increase RAM using a flash drive

Question from a user

Good afternoon. Help me decide on my memory. I have an Acer Aspire laptop, it has two slots for RAM. Now I have one 4 GB stick installed, I want to buy another stick and insert it into the second slot.

But I can’t decide which RAM is suitable for my laptop. Could you tell me how to choose the right memory, what to pay attention to...

Hello!

In fact, there is never too much memory, especially since now 4 GB is already considered the basic minimum for a regular home laptop. In general, in order to purchase an additional memory stick for your laptop, you need to pay attention to several things: free slots (are they available?), the type of memory supported by the processor (motherboard), with single-channel and dual-channel operating modes (if, of course, you have the desire speed up the operation of your device somewhat).

And so, I’ll tell you about everything in order...

Addition!

By the way, if you want to find out what RAM is on your computer (laptop), I recommend reading the following article:

How many memory slots does a laptop have?

most often there are 1÷2 of them

To increase RAM in a laptop, the first thing you should start with is determining the number of slots in the laptop for installing memory. Otherwise, some immediately begin to determine the type of memory, determine the volume. Subsequently, it turns out that there is nowhere to insert the purchased strip!

In an ordinary laptop, the most typical configuration, there are 1 or 2 of them. It is clear that if you have 2 slots, then this is a more successful and convenient option.

To determine number of slots, you can go the following ways:


Type of memory supported by the processor (motherboard)

Method No. 1

If you know the model of your laptop, you can use the official website of your manufacturer (or official dealers). They are always indicated detailed characteristics your device. Example below.

You can also check the documentation that came with your device. It should contain information like this...

Method No. 2

There is such an indispensable utility as AIDA (you can find out about it here -). Using it, you can find out what type of RAM your laptop supports and what is the maximum amount of memory you can install.

To see this data, launch AIDA and then open the "Motherboard/Chipset" section. The screenshot below shows the results for a typical laptop:

  • supported memory types: DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333, DDR3-1600 (see also the plate just below in the article);
  • maximum memory capacity: 16 GB.

Of course if you buy a new memory stick (instead of the old one) - choose with the maximum operating frequency - in the current example, DDR3-1600 (memory capacity - the more, the better!).

If you buy an additional memory stick to the existing one, then there is no point in overpaying for faster memory. For example, you have a 2 GB DDR3-1333 stick - you will buy an additional 2 GB DDR3-1600 stick. They will work for you at frequency 1333, i.e. the laptop will be guided by the slowest bar. Therefore, in this case: either change both punks, or...

Supported memory type, Maximum memory // Aida utility

By the way, below is a table that will help you correctly understand the markings on the RAM sticks, as well as estimate the bandwidth. Of course, DDR3-1600 memory is faster than DDR3-1333.

DDR3 or DDR3L

Another one important characteristic: Memory type DDR3 or DDR3L (latest with reduced energy consumption). It is believed that this can be ignored, because... They are backwards compatible, but the thing is that some laptops only support a certain type of memory. And if you insert a DDR3 memory stick into a laptop that only supports DDR3L, the memory will not work!

An example is shown in the photo below - DELL laptop, with one slot for memory installation, supports only DDR3L (as written right next to the slot - "Only DDR3L" ).

You can also judge DDR3L and DDR3 by the program Speccy. Open the RAM (random access memory) section in it and open the characteristics installed memory- look at the voltage. If the voltage is 1.35 - you have DDR3L installed, if 1.5 - DDR3.

Do I need dual-channel memory mode?

If you have two slots for memory installation, you can achieve higher performance in some applications if you use dual-channel operating mode.

From experience, I can say that performance in dual-channel mode increases by about 10% in games. For rendering or tasks where a lot depends on bandwidth memory, performance increases up to 30-35% or more!

In my opinion, when you have a choice (i.e. 2 slots), I recommend buying and installing 2 memory sticks and using dual-channel memory mode (sometimes called Dual).

To find out what mode your memory is working in:

  • run the Speccy utility;
  • on home page utilities look what is written under the title "Operational soldering" - 1-channel or 2-channel (if the English version is Single or Dual, respectively).

To enable dual-channel mode, the following must be observed:

  • The memory sticks must have the same frequency (DDR3-1600, for example). By the way, all installed memory sticks will operate at the frequency of the slowest memory module (I already mentioned this above);
  • the strips must have the same amount of memory;
  • it is also desirable that the slats have the same timings, and they were from the same manufacturer.

In these cases, as a rule, two-channel mode will be used automatically without your “dancing with tambourines”...

I think that the information in the article is enough to determine what memory you have installed, what is supported and will suit your laptop to do right choice and buy what you need!

That’s where I end this article, I’ll stop talking right away!

Otherwise I’ll get hit in the neck and won’t accomplish my feat!

All the best to everyone!

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 need to upgrade 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 computer work, open Task Manager, go to the tab Performance and look at the amount of occupied 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, this option is increasingly common in modern computers, 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 memory soldered to the motherboard, the only way To increase the RAM of a laptop, you can buy 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 consult 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 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 the warranty, you can contact the service center about the upgrade, but this procedure will cost additional 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 operates in dual-channel mode (two memory dies 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 the specific name and model of memory, 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 slot for laptops, just as memory for laptops cannot be plugged into motherboard for desktop computers.

SODIMM and DIMM memory. The difference is obvious.

DDR2, DDR3, DDR4 are all different generations of RAM. They don't support 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.

It’s already easier with the parameter of frequency and its volume. 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 its official characteristics, 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, faster memory for laptops 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 a very simple procedure that will take you no more than 15 minutes.


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 the new RAM and the computer will turn on as usual. In the task manager, you will then be able to see your new memory and enjoy the increased amount of available RAM.