How to upgrade the RAM on your computer

Generally speaking, computer memory upgrades (not including Flash memory cards or USB drives) can be divided into two different types generally:

Type one: Generic upgrades. These are made by a plethora of manufacturers and are made to a speed and form factor specification, such as a DDR-333 200 pin SO-DIMM, or a DDR2-667 240 pin DIMM. These ones are the most basic and the most common too as well as the cheapest. Generic upgrades are made without regard to the particular requirements of the computer they are being installed in. Generic upgrades are usually cheaper and supplied by 1000's of resellers worldwide. Today they are being used less though.

Type two: System specific upgrades. (Also known as 'branded' memory). This is memory that is made to a particular speed and form factor specification, and further tested to function in particular brand / model computers and motherboards. The most well known manufacturer of system specific upgrades is Kingston. This is the fastest one but also the most expensive.

But things changed a lot lately. In recent years other memory manufacturers have also chosen to compete in the branded memory market, such as Transcend, Corsair, A-data, and Patriot. Many other brands exist as well. All offer similar guarantees of compatibility, however Kingston is arguably the most trusted brand, especially amongst those who work in the IT sector. Kingston also have close relationships with the major OEM's like IBM, such that technicians will service onsite Kingston memory products that have been installed in IBM computer systems. Kingston however still is one of hte best ones.

If you purchase a system specific module for your computer, Kingston will guarantee it to be compatible. How they do it I have no idea. System specific upgrades are generally a little more expensive than generic upgrades because the design is customized to meet the memory requirements of the computer system the module is designed for. They also guarantee life time warranty, again how they do it I have no single or general idea. Kingston also also tests the module in the end system using popular applications that people use every day (email clients, web browsers, etc), operating systems and the original equipment manufacturer's own system diagnostic program. Good luck boy.