This article was prepared based on the request of some of our dear followers on our Facebook page in the “Inquiries Post” section. So, here is the topic for you.
Let’s start by reviewing the information you need to know before making the decision to buy additional RAM for your laptop. First and foremost, you need to know if your computer supports adding additional RAM modules. There are many laptops, especially older ones, that only support one slot with one RAM module. So, you need to pause for a moment and find out how to determine the available slots inside the computer.
To determine if your computer supports multiple RAM slots, the portable tool RAMExpert will provide you with this information. After downloading and running it, important information about the RAM will be displayed, especially the number of slots available under “Number of slots.” As shown in the image, my device supports 2 slots, but yours may have more. However, if you find it to have only 1 slot, you will need to upgrade the RAM module. Additionally, RAMExpert will show you the maximum amount of RAM supported by the motherboard of your computer, which is crucial information to consider.
Now that we have known the basic information, let’s move on to the information about the currently installed RAM module in your device. Since you want to buy additional RAM, the new RAM module should have the same specifications as the one already in the computer. The size is not relevant; rather, the technical specifications matter. It is best to know the specifications from the label on the RAM module itself. Close the laptop completely, remove the battery, and remove the back cover or bottom of the laptop with the screws. You will find the place to install the RAM and the laptop components, or there may be a specific cover to be removed for checking the RAM module. In any case, you will need to push the tabs on the sides of the RAM to lift the module upwards.
Now, remove the installed RAM and check the technical specifications written on the module. The key information you need it the type of RAM, whether it is DDR3 or DDR3L, and if it’s not specified, it will likely be PC3L (DDR3L) or PC3. Also, note the frequency of this type, whether it’s 12800S or 14900. It is essential to save and understand this information carefully so you can purchase additional RAM that matches the same specifications as the existing one to avoid issues. Take note that we have also explained how to choose RAM for your computer, which may help you understand the specifications better.
As shown in the image above, the new RAM modules come with the same specifications as the original ones. The size does not have to be identical, nor does the brand of the RAM. You can check the crucial specifications before buying from the seller by carefully looking at the label on any side of the RAM module.
I believe it’s time to start installing the additional RAM modules, which is a straightforward process. You will need to remove the back cover of the laptop again after completely removing the battery from the device. Insert the new RAM module into the empty slot in the laptop. This slot may be in front of the original RAM or at the bottom or top; what matters is the presence of a slot for the pins of the new RAM module. Insert it at an angle and gently into this slot, ensuring there is an empty space between the pins and it fits into the designated spot on the module. When secured at an angle (as shown in the image above), push it downwards until it settles firmly in place.
The additional RAM has now been installed without any issues, and after reassembling the laptop and turning it on, you should verify and read the new size of the RAM. If you encounter any issues regarding the RAM not being read in full, we have dedicated an article to why Windows does not read the full RAM size and the suitable solutions to address the problem.
