From the course: CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) Cert Prep

Installing and troubleshooting RAM

From the course: CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) Cert Prep

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Installing and troubleshooting RAM

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- Let's talk about RAM, or Random Access Memory, and why it matters. RAM plays a big role in how quickly your system and applications run. If your computer feels sluggish, especially after you upgrade your OS or adding new software, there's a good chance you probably need more memory. These days, 8 gigabytes of RAM is really the bare minimum per running an operating system and basic tasks. But if you're doing gaming, doing graphics work, or running multiple programs at once, you want to at least 16 gigabytes, and honestly, the more the better. Now, upgrading RAM might seem simple at first, but when it comes to a laptop, the process can be a bit more involved. Before you start installing anything, the most important step is to identify the types of RAM that is compatible with your system. That includes the form, fit, and function, also known as the 3-Fs. A lot of RAM manufacturers offer tools on their website to help you find the right memory for your machine. For example, here's one from Micron for their Crucial RAM products. Here on the Crucial site, we just chose the manufacturer, product line, and model number of our pc. Once we hit See my upgrades, we get a confirmation that shows which memory is compatible. When we click Compatible RAM, we'll see all the recommended modules for our system. These listings show the specs that you need to match. For instance, you might see something like a 32 gigabyte DDR4-3200 SODIMM module. That tells us its DDR4 memory, which stands for Double Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory, 4th generation, and that it uses the SODIMM form, which stands for Small Outline Dual In-line Memory Module. We cover those terms more deeply in other episodes, but for now, just know we need to match those details to your computer's documentation. For example, let's say the documentation for our hypothetical laptop says we can install two 16 gigabyte DDR4-3200 megahertz SODIMM modules. They should have CAS latency of 22, use 260 pins, and be non-ECC, meaning non-error correcting. The modules we saw on the Crucial site match all that, so those are the ones we'd go with. Alright, now that we figured out what RAM modules we need and got our hands on the modules, it's time to install them. Now, here's the deal. The original plan was to show this on a laptop, but today we're working on our custom-built desktop that we've been working on. That's totally fine. The steps are actually pretty similar. I'll show you how it works on the desktop we're building, and I'll also explain what you would do if this were a laptop so you get the full picture either way. Alright, so step one, gather your tools. Here's what we need. The memory modules still sealed in an antistatic bag or a container until we're ready to use it. A clean, non-static surface to work on. An ESD wrist strap or an ESD mat or a floor mat to ground ourselves. A non-magnetic screwdriver. And if you're working on a laptop or pre-built system, it's always good to have the technical manual handy just in case the layout isn't familiar. Since we're using a desktop we've assembled ourselves, we know exactly where everything is. But for a laptop, you want to look up the documentation to find the memory compartment. Next, we're going to power off and remove all power sources. Safety is first. Before we do anything inside the PC, we need to shut it down completely and make sure there is no power running through the system. For our desktop here, that means powering it off, unplugging it from the wall, and flipping the power switch on the power supply if it has one. Now, if we're working on a laptop, we'd also remove the battery if it's a removable one. Then, to fully discharge any leftover electricity, we'd press and hold the power button for about 30 seconds. And if you don't have an ESD strap, at the very least, touch any unpainted metal parts of the case to ground yourself. Try to stay in one place while you're working. Walking around builds up static electricity. So if you have to move, ground yourself again before getting back into the machine. Okay, our next step is to open up the case and access the memory slots. Since we're working on our custom-built desktop that is mounted in an open case, for now, we can skip this step. On a pre-built desktop, opening the case is easy. Just remove the side panel with a screwdriver or quick-release latches, depending on your case. Inside, we can clearly see the RAM slots on the motherboard. They're those long slots next to the CPU socket. Now, if we're working on a laptop, this would be a bit different. Some laptops have a dedicated panel on the bottom for accessing the RAM. Others might require you to remove the keyboard or even the whole bottom of the casing. There is no universal standard for where RAM is located in laptops, so you definitely want to check the manufacturer's documentation before diving in. The next step is to remove the old memory, if applicable though. If you're replacing memory, the old modules need to come out first. On our desktop, that's easy. There are clips at both ends of the DIMM slot. Just push those outward and the module will pop up. Gently lift it up by the edges. If we're working on a laptop with SODIMM memory, it would be similar. You push the metal tabs apart and the module would spring up at an angle. Then, pull it out again, holding either edges. Either way, never use tools to pry it loose. If it feels stuck, double check the clips. Do not force it no matter what. Finally, we get to install the new RAM modules. Now, for the fun part, installing the new RAM for our desktop. On this desktop, we're working with full-size DIMM modules. Line up the notch on the bottom edge of the module and with the ridge in the slots. If it doesn't fit, just flip it around. Then, firmly press it straight down until it clips back into place. You'll feel it when it's seated correctly. If this were a laptop, we'd be using SODIMM modules. In that case, you would insert the modules at about a 45 degree angle to the slot. Then, press it down until it clicks into place. Just a quick reminder is don't touch the metal contacts on the RAM. Always handle it by the edges to avoid damaging it with static. Also, if there were any multiple slots, start with the one labeled as slot 0 or check with your motherboard's manual to make sure you're installing it in the correct configuration. Next, we need to test the RAM. Before binding everything back up, let's go ahead and test the system. Reconnect the power to our desktop and turn it on. Many systems, you'll see the total amount of installed memory right on the initial boot screen. If not and you're using Windows, just head to Settings, next, then System, and then About, and it will show you how much RAM is detected. If you were using Linux, you could open up a terminal and run the following command. That lists the memory modules currently installed. If everything looks good and the RAM shows up correctly, we're good to go. But if it doesn't show up or the system doesn't boot, we've got to do some troubleshooting. So let's say that things didn't quite go as planned. If the system won't power on at all, double check the power cable, the battery, if it's a laptop, or any power switches on the PSU. If the power is on but nothing's happening, that usually means the RAM isn't seated properly. Shut it back down and go back in. And make sure the modules is pressed in all the way and locked in. Also, check around the inside of the case and make sure you didn't actually bump any cables loose while working. It happens more than you think. And finally, it's possible that the modules itself are actually faulty or was defective out of the box or static electricity damaged it during handling. Finally, we get to close everything up. Once everything checks out, we can reassemble the system. For our desktop, that just means putting the side panel back on. If this were a laptop, we'd replace the bottom panel or the keyboard, snap everything back in, and reconnect any accessories. Then, power it on and enjoy the upgrade. More RAM can give your system a noticeable boost, especially if you were running low before. And it is one of the quickest and most affordable upgrades you can make. So just to recap, before installing any RAM, make sure it's compatible with your system. Handle it carefully. Follow those key installation steps, and always test it before closing up the case.

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