How to Add RAM to Your Desktop Computer

How to Add RAM to Your Desktop Computer...
 Is your computer running slowly? Are you considering buying a newer, faster computer? Adding
more RAM to your computer may speed it up and extend its life (saving you a bit of money in the process). RAM, or Random Access Memory, is the memory that is used by programs you run every day on your computer. Your web browser, games, and office tools all need RAM. As you run more programs or open more browser tabs, your computer needs more memory to run everything. This tutorial will teach you how to add RAM to your desktop computer in a few easy steps.
Steps.

 1. First, you need to determine what kind of RAM you need. To do this, go to the website of the company that manufactured your computer (Dell, HP, etc). The manufacturer website will give you the specifications of your specific machine, and can determine what type (DDR, DDR2, DDR3) you need.

2 . Determine how much RAM you need. Different computers are able to accomodate different amounts of RAM. Pictured is a motherboard. Yours will look roughly the same. The highlighted region is where RAM is installed. This specific motherboard can accomodate four "sticks" of RAM

 3. Buy the RAM. Websites like Newegg.com or Microcenter.com typically offer good deals for computer parts.

 4. Your RAM will look more or less like this. Based on which "type" of RAM you needed for your computer (and the brand of the RAM itself), it may look a bit different. Now it's time to install your new RAM.

5. Open up your computer. Before doing this, make sure your computer is off andunplugged from the wall. Now that the computer is off, remove the left side panel of the case (left of the front of the computer). Depending on the manufacturer of the computer, there may be a latch, thumb screws, or phillips screws that keep the panel fastened. Once the panel is removed, you will see something resembling the image above. The highlighted region is where the RAM is installed on the motherboard

6. Ground yourself! Before proceeding, you need to be aware that static electricity can short circuit components in your computer, potentially ruining them. To prevent damage to your computer during this installation process, you need to be grounded. Simply touching the metal panel of your computer case can accomplish this. Make sure to repeat this several times during the installation process, as static electricity can still build up as you move around. An additional precaution, though not entirely necessary, is to purchase an anti-static wristband. They are cheap and also keep you grounded

7. Install your RAM. Circled in the picture above are clips that are used to secure RAM in place. Make sure these are opened and angled outwards prior to installing the RAM. As seen in the image, RAM needs to be installed in a particular direction. Simply line up the divot with the corresponding spot in the motherboard and carefully place the RAM in the slot. In most cases, it takes a bit of force to actually secure the RAM in the motherboard. If you apply enough force, the RAM will snap into place. The aforementioned white clips will snap in automatically and the RAM will be secure
That's all...