Upgrading the RAM (Random Access Memory, or simply "Memory") on your system is quite simple... You'll need some information about your system before you get started.
-- Supported Memory Speed
-- Machine Type (Desktop or Laptop)
-- Maximum Supported Size
-- Number of Slots
The above information is quite critical, as it lets us know exactly what is supported within your system. For example, if we have a desktop, our ram will be a vastly different size than a laptop.
If your system supports 4GB of ram, but only has 2 slots, that would mean your system supports 2GB sticks; so if the same system had 4 slots, but supported 4GB ram, it'd support only 1GB sticks of RAM.
You can usually find this information in the manual which came with your PC, or from an online memory manufacturer's website (such as Memory To Go. However, I recommend that you purchase your memory at NewEgg as you can see user reviews and compare the prices of many types of ram from many manufacturers.
One thing you can keep in mind is that DDR memory can be clocked down, however you cannot clock it up... An example is that you can buy DDR400 memory for a DDR300 system and have it work flawlessly; however you cannot do the opposite.
To upgrade the memory on a desktop system:
1. Power down your computer, and unplug the computer from the power socket.
2. Open your case.
3. Locate the RAM slots, they will be grouped together and will have white connectors at the sides of where the ram plugs into each port.
4. If you're upgrading all of the ram in the system (by replacing the current memory) remove the old memory, else proceed to 5.
5. The RAM will only fit in one direction, so there aren't many worries, simply line the ram in the port and press it down firmly; the white connectors on the sides should "snap" in place once the RAM has been fully pushed into the slot. Repeat as needed for each stick of ram.
6. Re-assemble your system, plug in the power, and start.
To upgrade the memory on a laptop system:
1. Power down the laptop, and remove the power cable.
2. Unscrew the memory port housing (usually signified by a small stick of ram in a picture on the case)
3. Locate the RAM slots, they will be grouped together and will usually have either a white plastic or metal connectors at each end where the ram plugs into each port.
4. If you're upgrading all of the ram in the system (by replacing the current memory) remove the old memory, else proceed to step 5.
5. The RAM will only fit in one direction so there aren't many worries, simply line the ram in the port and push it in firmly, the connectors should "snap" into the sides of the memory sticks and hold them in firmly. Generally these ram slots are at a slant and require some pressure to fit in the housing.
6. Re-assemble your system, plug in the system and start up.
From here you'll have upgraded your system memory, your system should boot up and do a memory check and display the total ram in the machine and will boot normally to your system.
