Step-by-Step: How to Install New Memory
Photograph: Marc Simon
Swapping out memory is among the quickest and easiest of PC upgrades. Here's how to do it:
[1] Power down your PC, open its case, and ground yourself as usual by touching the metal case or using an antistatic wrist strap.
[2] Find out whether and how your memory sockets are paired, and maintain that arrangement for best dual-channel performance. The pairing is often designated by color or a graphic on the motherboard itself.
[3] If you need to remove an existing module, gently push down on the clips on either side of the RAM socket. The module will pop up slightly and should be easy to pull out.
[4] To install your new memory, line up the notch at the bottom of the memory chip with the corresponding bump in the memory socket.
[5] With your fingers positioned at each end of the module, gently but firmly push down on it until the latches click into place.
[6] Close up your system, power on, and confirm that the PC recognizes the new RAM. If it doesn't, power down and reseat the modules.
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