How to install computer memory

First off make sure you have the correct type of memory required for your system. Not all types of memory can be used in every PC. For example DDR2 memory cannot be used in a PC that requires DDR1 (DDR).

With that out of the way, you can start by opening your computer’s case. The computer case should have side panel that slides off after unscrewing it from the back of the PC.

Case with side off:

Now with the computer case open. Locate the memory slots on your motherboard. Memory slots pretty much look identical from motherboard to motherboard, the only real difference could be the color and/or the type of slot i.e. DDR2, DDR3 etc.

Here is a picture of a typical DDR memory slot:

Now that you have identified your ram slots, you can get your ram ready for installation. One safety precaution that you should always take when handling any type of computer part is to de-static your body. You can do this by touching something made out of metal. I usually touch the back of the computer’s case. You might also hear some people talking about anti static wrist straps and so on but personally i don’t think they’re absolutely necessary unless you plan on building several PCs in one day. Anyway, removing the electro static from your body is very important because computer parts, especially ram are extremely sensitive to this electro static and can be damaged by it. Just for further info the technical name for this is E.S.D or electro static discharge.

With the static out of your body you can finally insert the memory into their appropriate slot/s. Memory modules are keyed that they can only be installed one way, which is to stop people from accidently installing the memory module the wrong way round. There is an indentation near the middle of the gold edge on the memory module. This indentation or gap is supposed to line up with a small bump which is in the shape of the indentation found on the memory. Another picture for illustration:

Before lining up the memory for insertion, push the levers found either side of the slot into their open positions. Check picture:

As you line up the memory, make sure each end of the module line up with each end of the memory slot. Also, depending on your type/make of motherboard. You might need to refer to the motherboards manual to check whether you are installing the module in the correct slot. Mainly because all modern motherboards will atleast have two or more slots. And most allow for dual channel configuration. Normally if you are installing one memory dimm module. You would insert it into the slot nearest to the CPU.

With the memory correctly lined up for insertion, just gently push down on the memory until both levers iether side click into place. Locking the memory module into position.

Congratulations, you should now know how to install computer memory.