How to Install Memory on a PC Desktop

Step1 First I would like to mention that opening the case of a computer that is under any sort of warranty or service plan may violate the terms of your agreement, and thereby render your contract null and void. So if your computer is currently covered by one of these types of contracts, you may want to check the terms and conditions before you continue. 

Before you start getting your hands dirty, you need to make sure that you have the correct type of memory for your computer. I highly recommend that you check with your computer's manufacturer (ie. Dell, Compaq, eMachines, etc) and verify that you have the correct type of ram (speed, voltage, number of pins, etc).

Step2 You will now need to power your computer off. No hardware upgrades should ever be done while the computer is on. You should leave the computer plugged in to a surge protector or outlet though, so that it will be grounded while you do the installation.

Step3 Once the computer is completely powered down, you should disconnect any sort of peripheral device that may be connected to the machine. This includes mice, keyboards, speakers, usb hubs, network cables, monitor, etc. If you have a digital camera, it may be a good idea to take a picture of where the cables are all plugged in. Marking wires with a label of some sort isn't a bad idea either. If you're not familiar with where everything plugs in, this should make life a little easier once you're ready to connect everything again.

Step4 Now you will need to open your computer. Unless your computer happens to have some sort of custom mechanism to open it, this should be a fairly straight forward process. Most computers have one panel on the left side of the computer (when viewed from the front) that can be removed by unscrewing 2 phillips head screws in the back of the computer.

Step5 Typical PCMotherboardOnce you have verified that you have located the correct type of memory for your computer, and we have the computer open and ready to be worked on, we need to make sure that you have room in your computer for the new memory. It may be a good idea to again check with your original computer manufacturer, and see if they have any sort of technical documents related to your computer's motherboard layout (the motherboard is where the memory will be connected once we're all done). You will need to locate your memory slots on your motherboard, they should look similar to the part of this picture that is labeled "I". If you have at least one of those slots open, you're good to go.

Step6 When handling memory, it is best to avoid touching anything other than the ends where there is no metal exposed. You should also ground yourself by touching some of the exposed metal in the computer. You should also note that there is a notch in the bottom of the stick of memory. You should be able see that there are more metal pins on one side of this notch than the other. The memory slot on your computer's motherboard should have a peg of sorts, dividing the slot in to two pieces as well. Just like the memory stick, one side should be longer than the other. This prevents you from installing the memory stick backwards.

Step7 You should be able to insert the memory stick, perpendicular to the motherboard, into one of the available memory slots. (You may want to refer to your original computer manufacturer to see if there is a particular slot you should use instead of another, usually it should be fine to install the memory right next to the others that are already installed). Be sure to rock the fasteners on either side of the memory slot, away from the slot prior to installing the memory.

Step8 Apply a moderate amount of pressure on the memory stick, until the side fasteners click into place. They should fasten in to notches on the sides of the memory stick. You may need to manually nudge the side fasteners in to place while applying pressure on the memory stick.

Step9 Once it appears that the memory stick is in place, try to gently pull the memory stick out, to ensure that it is locked into place.

Step10 Ensure that no wires or cords are obstructing any fans inside the computer case. Sometimes a wire or two might get in the way when you move things out of the way to get to the memory slots on the motherboard.

Step11 Close the computer back up, and reconnect any peripheral devices.

Step12 Turn the computer on.

Step13 Once your computer has booted in to Windows, check to make sure that the computer recognizes the new ram you installed. In Windows XP this can be done by right clicking "My Computer" then clicking "Properties". This window should reflect the changes.

Step14 If the amount of memory did not increase, or the computer is no longer able to boot, you should try uninstalling and then installing your memory again. If you still continue to have difficulty, you should call a computer technician for further assistance.