How to properly install two sticks of RAM. How to correctly position the RAM sticks. How to add RAM to a computer: methods and recommendations

Instructions

Determine how much memory is already installed. Go to the Start menu and select Settings, then Control Panel and System. Select the General tab. The amount of memory installed on your computer will be shown at the bottom of the page.

Determine what type and amount of memory you need to purchase. Consult your user manual to find out the maximum amount of memory your computer can handle. The guide will also help you select the type and speed of memory you need. Buy an operational one memory online or at your local computer store.

Open the case computer. Refer to the instruction manual if necessary. Remove any metal rings, watches or. Turn off your computer, disconnect it from electrical outlet and then touch the metal case to eliminate any static electricity. An antistatic wrist strap can also be used for this purpose.

Locate the memory slots on motherboard computer. If necessary, refer to the instruction manual. If there are no free slots, you will have to remove one or more of the installed cards memory to be able to add a new one memory.

Install a new one memory. To do this, open the holders in the free slot and carefully insert the memory card into it. Make sure the memory card module is securely inserted into the slot and secure the holders.

Test the installed memory. Close the case and turn on the computer. If the computer starts to feed beep, Means memory installed incorrectly. Then repeat step 5 to make sure that memory securely inserted into the slot. If the installation was successful, check that the system has detected the new amount of memory (step 1).

Video on the topic

Increase RAM(RAM) significantly improves computer performance. Moreover, it does not require knowledge of the hardware; you just need to carefully install the module into the motherboard slot.

You will need

• - memory module;
• - screwdriver.

Instructions

Purchase a suitable RAM module. IN modern computers DDR, DDRII and DDRIII strips are used, differing in connectors and operating speed. You can find out what type of memory is used in your PC in the passport that was issued upon purchase.

Completely turn off the computer's power and absolutely all wires going to the back of the case. Place system unit on a stable surface and unscrew the side cover using a screwdriver. Some blocks are equipped with special fasteners instead of screws, and to remove the cover it is enough to unfasten only them.

Find the block for installing RAM. It includes several slots with latches into which the RAM stick should be installed.

Bend down the special fasteners on the edges of the free slot. Take the strip that you are going to install into the system unit by the edges and insert it, aligning the slot in the bottom of the module with the slot in the RAM slot. As soon as the bar is clearly fixed, install the latches in their previous position, thereby securing the installed module. At correct location The fasteners will tightly press the installed RAM.

Close the computer lid, connect power, and test the computer. To make sure that the memory was correctly detected by the system, right-click on the “My Computer” shortcut. The line “Installed memory” will indicate the total amount of RAM. If this indicator increases, then the installation was carried out absolutely correctly.

Random access memory (RAM) is a random access memory device (hereinafter referred to as RAM) designed to store current information while the computer is running. The more RAM a computer has, the faster it works, launches applications, games, videos, downloads files, photos, movies, etc. That is why, often, there is a need to increase the amount of RAM. How to do this and what RAM to choose will be discussed.

The stage of preparation for purchasing memory modules for a home computer

The preparatory stage includes the following steps:

1. First of all, you need to contact technical specifications motherboard, which can be found either in the documentation for the motherboard or on the manufacturer’s website. What are we finding out?

• The type of RAM installed on this motherboard. There are many types of RAM, but now most often you can find DDR, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4.
• The maximum amount of RAM that the motherboard supports. This could be 1, 2, 4 GB, etc.
• The clock frequency, measured in MHz, at which data is transmitted.

By the way, on the websites of motherboard manufacturers you can find memory modules recommended for installation.

2. If you already have an installed RAM stick, but the task is to expand it, then the most optimal way is to find out the characteristics of the already installed memory module and purchase the same one.

It would be best to purchase and install a bar from the same manufacturer and the same clock frequency. The fact is that memory modules are often different manufacturers and brands may not work correctly in combination.

How can you find out which memory module is installed on your computer? To do this, you need to look at the sticker on the memory module, where information about the manufacturer, its type and clock frequency is indicated.

3. The total amount of RAM indicated on the RAM strips should not exceed the maximum amount supported by the motherboard.

4. An important role is played by what operating system is installed on your computer. Yes, 32-bit Windows version can work with a maximum of 3.5GB of memory.

Device installation

The memory installation process includes the following steps:

• Disconnect the system unit, monitor and other devices from the power supply.
• Open the housing cover.
• Find the motherboard, and on it there are connectors for RAM (they are all labeled).

• Bend back the latches along the edges of the connectors that secure the strip.
• Take the RAM strip (not by the contacts!) and insert it into the connector so that the notch on the strip (the so-called key) coincides with the protrusion on the slot motherboard. Be careful, static electricity from your hands can damage the device.
• Secure the OP ruler on the sides with latches. Often, in order to insert the bar, it is necessary to apply considerable force.
• Return the housing cover to its original position.

Checking the functionality of the new RAM

To do this, follow these steps:

• The computer turns on. Launch in progress operating system Windows. This is already the first good sign!
• Checked in installed memory(RAM).

If the RAM is installed correctly, the amount of RAM that was installed on the motherboard will be displayed.

• For a more detailed memory check, you need to run the application

Frequent freezes, appearance blue screen and other manifestations unstable work, may be signs of unstable RAM.

Not everyone knows that simply installing RAM into a computer is not enough. It’s useful to set it up and overclock it. Otherwise, it will provide the minimum efficiency specified in the parameters. Here it is important to consider how many strips to install, how to distribute them among slots, and how to set parameters in the BIOS. Below you will find tips on installing RAM, learn how to properly install, configure, etc.

The first question that arises when users want to increase the performance and speed of RAM is whether it is possible to install memory modules from different manufacturers that differ in frequency into a computer? When deciding how to install RAM in a computer, purchase better modules one production, one frequency.

Theoretically, if you install modules of different frequencies, the RAM works, but at the characteristics of the slowest module. Practice shows that incompatibility problems often arise: the PC does not turn on, the OS crashes.

Therefore, if you plan to install several strips, buy a set of 2 or 4 modules. The same chips have the same overclocking potential parameters.

The usefulness of multi-channel mode

A modern computer supports multi-channel RAM operation, with a minimum of 2 channels equipped. There are processor platforms with three-channel mode, and others with eight memory slots for four-channel mode.

When dual-channel mode is enabled, the processor's performance is increased by 5–10%, and the graphics accelerator's performance is increased by up to 50%. Therefore, when assembling even an inexpensive gaming device, it is recommended to install at least two memory modules.

If you are connecting two RAM modules, and the board installed in the computer is equipped with 4 DIMM slots, follow the installation order. To enable dual-channel mode, install modules in the computer, alternating the board connectors through one, i.e. place them in 1 and 3, or use connectors 2 and 4. The second option is often convenient, because often the first RAM slot is blocked by the processor cooler. If the radiators are low profile, this problem will not arise.

You can check whether the dual-channel mode is connected through the AIDA64 application. Go to the “Test cache and memory” item. The utility will also help you calculate the performance of RAM before overclocking, and observe how the memory and its characteristics have changed after the overclocking procedure.

Setting frequency and timings

To overclock RAM, you need to know how. When you just install RAM in your computer, the RAM will most likely operate at the lowest possible frequency available in the processor’s technical parameters. Maximum frequency you need to install it, configure it through the motherboard BIOS, you can do it manually, there is a way to speed it up Intel technology XMP, supported by almost all boards, even AMD.

When you manually set it to 2400 MHz, the memory will operate at standard timings for this frequency, which are 11-14-14-33. But modules HyperX Savage cope with stable work at lower timings high frequency at 2400 MHz, this ratio (low timings with high frequency) are a guarantee of high RAM performance.

A useful technology developed by Intel Corporation - Extreme Memory Profile - allows you to avoid manually setting each timing; in two clicks you select the optimal profile from those prepared by the manufacturer.

Memory overclocking

We said above that installing, even correctly, the RAM strips is not enough. Having turned on two-channel, preferably four-channel mode, select optimal settings frequencies related to timing. Remember, first of all, that no one will give you a guarantee of overclocking; you will be able to overclock one memory perfectly, but unsuccessfully overclock another. But don’t be afraid that the memory may fail when you overclock it: if it’s turned up too high, it will simply not start.

What to do if overclocking is unsuccessful? Typically, motherboards are equipped with an auto-reset function, which you can use when the computer does not start several times after overclocking. You can also do it manually by using the Clear CMOS jumper (aka JBAT).

The frequency is selected experimentally, and the supply voltage and timings are also set. Of course, there is no guarantee that the selected ratio will be better than the maximum XMP profile. Often, with maximum frequency overclocking, you have to increase the timings.

Be sure to test your result using the AIDA64 Cache & Memory Benchmark utility. Overclocking can lead to a drop in speed, becoming almost useless. Typically, low-frequency versions have higher potential than high-end versions.

Installing memory and overclocking it are simple processes, especially when the RAM supports ready-made XMP profiles. Remember that it is more practical to buy RAM for your computer as a kit in order to get a performance boost from dual-channel mode, not only from overclocking. We recommend purchasing a low-profile RAM for your computer to avoid incompatibility when using a large-sized one. CPU cooler. Follow the tips, then you can overclock your RAM to maximum speed.

Operating speed personal computer directly depends on the correct selection and installation of all its components. Correct selection and installation of RAM memory modules is the most important key to the successful operation of your PC.

In the previous article we looked at . In this article we will look at the issues of selecting RAM and its proper arrangement in the motherboard connectors.

Basic recommendations applicable to all types and types of memory:
– it is best to install DIMM modules with the same memory capacity;
– the modules must match in operating frequency (Mhz); if you install modules with different operating frequencies, then in the end they will all operate at the frequency of the slowest memory;
– for installed RAM cards, it is advisable to combine timings and memory latencies (delays);
– it is better to select modules from one manufacturer and one model.

Some enthusiasts try to buy modules from the same batch, but this, it seems to me, is already a perversion!

These tips are not strictly followed; situations vary. If memory modules differ from each other in manufacturer, volume and operating frequency, this does not mean at all that they will not work. In this case, there are no special memory layout secrets - just installing them is enough.

There are also no special features when installing already outdated types of memory such as SDRAM (there is one rule - the more, the better).

But in modern computers, motherboards support special operating memory modes. It is in these modes that the operating speed RAM memory will be the most effective. Therefore, to achieve best performance you should take into account the operating modes of DIMMs and their correct installation. Let's look at the most common RAM operating modes today.

RAM operating modes

SINGLE CHANELL MODE

Single Mode (single channel or asymmetric mode) – this mode is implemented when only one memory module is installed in the system or all DIMMs differ from each other in memory capacity, operating frequency or manufacturer. It doesn’t matter in which slots or what memory to install. All memory will run at the speed of the slowest memory installed.

If there is only one module, then it can be installed in any memory slot:

Two or three different modules Memory can also be installed in any configuration:

DUAL CHANELL MODE

Dual Mode (two-channel or symmetrical mode) – the same amount of RAM is installed in each DIMM channel. Modules are selected according to operating frequency. On motherboards, the DIMM sockets for each channel are different colors. Next to them is written the name of the connector, and sometimes the channel number. The purpose of the connectors and their location along the channels must be indicated in the motherboard manual. The total memory volume is equal to the total volume of all installed modules. Each channel is served by its own memory controller. System performance increases by 5-10%.

Dual Mode can be implemented using two, three or four DIMMs.

If two identical RAM memory modules are used, they should be connected to the same connectors (the same color) from different channels. For example, install one module in the slot 0 channel A, and the second - into the connector 0 channel B:

Three memory modules are installed in a similar way - the total memory volumes in each channel are equal to each other (memory in the channel A equal in volume in the channel B):

TRIPLE CHANELL MODE

(three-channel mode) – the same amount of RAM is installed in each of the three DIMM channels. Modules are selected according to speed and volume. On motherboards that support three-channel memory mode, 6 memory connectors are usually installed (two for each channel). Sometimes there are motherboards with four connectors - two connectors make up one channel, the other two are connected to the second and third channels, respectively.

With six or three sockets, installation is as simple as with dual-channel mode. If four memory slots are installed, three of which can work in , the memory should be installed in these slots.

(flexible mode) – allows you to increase the performance of RAM when installing two modules of different sizes, but identical in operating frequency. As in dual-channel mode, memory cards are installed in the same connectors of different channels. For example, if there are two memory sticks with a capacity of 512Mb and 1Gb, then one of them should be installed in the slot 0 channel A, and the second - into the slot 0 channel B:

That’s basically all the recommendations for combining RAM. Of course, there may be more layout options, it all depends on the amount of RAM, the motherboard model and your financial capabilities. Motherboards with support also appeared on sale four-channel mode memory performance - this will give you maximum computer performance!

The type of RAM, which also applies to its capacity, depends on the connectors available on the motherboard. Usually located in close proximity to the socket. The number of seats of this type can vary - from two on simple motherboards to six, and sometimes more, on powerful motherboards.

Visually slots intended for installing RAM are a set of contacts. Along the edges there are latches designed to secure the RAM strips. There is also a special protrusion that ensures correct installation of RAM.

The memory itself is a small board with chips placed on it. There are also contacts and a cutout that, when installing memory, must be aligned with the protrusion on the slot.

Types of RAM slots

The slot type determines the availability of RAM for installation. Mostly on motherboards you can find slots for following types RAM:

• DDR4;
• DDR3;
• DDR2;
• SDRAM DIMM.

Also, the type of memory in question can be designated as PC, PC2, PC3 and PC4, which corresponds to the list provided above.

Important! Memory different types are incompatible with each other, for example, you cannot install a DDR2 stick in a slot intended for DDR3.

At the same time, some motherboards are equipped with slots for different types of memory. True, simultaneous installation of different types of memory in such “motherboards” is impossible, so you have to choose one thing.

RAM characteristics

1. Operating frequency (MHz).
2. Bandwidth (MB/s).

The second parameter determines the performance of memory modules. For example, the designation DDR3-1600 indicates that this memory is of the DDR3 type, and its operating frequency is 1600 MHz. At the same time throughput This level is determined by the parameter 12800 MB/s. It is calculated by multiplying the operating frequency, in our case it is 1600 MHz, by the number 8 (bit).

Multi-channel RAM architecture

RAM is designed in such a way that maximum performance memory is provided in cases where several sticks of RAM are installed on the computer. It is customary to distinguish two operating modes:

1. Dual-channel – the number of slots on the motherboard is a multiple of 2.
2. Three-channel – the number of slots installed on the motherboard is a multiple of 3.

The memory operating mode can be determined depending on the number of RAM slots. If there are 2 or 4 slots, then this is exclusively a two-channel mode, and if there are 6 of them, then the mode can be both two-channel and three-channel. This will depend on the processor and the number of memory sticks installed.

Info! Two 4 GB sticks in most cases work faster than one 8 GB stick - this is just an example.