How do I upgrade my computer's Random Access Memory (RAM)?

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Question

I want to upgrade my computer's Random Access Memory (RAM), what do I need to bear in mind?

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Answer

Firstly, you will need the technical specification of the memory, the maximum possible capacity and the number of slots on the mainboard. Use the community search with the MD number or MSN ¹ of your notebook or PC, to find the specifications you need. If the search results or the manual for your device do not provide the specifications , you can ask for the specifications in the relevant forum.

⚠️¹Note⚠️ If you do not know where you can find these numbers, this FAQ will help you.

Notebook and PC RAM differ in terms of design and pin number and therefore only fit into the respective devices. You can recognise notebook memory by the abbreviation SO (small outline) in the product name.

Necessary specifications that should be known for a memory expansion

• The memory generation: for example DDR4 or DDR3.
• Voltage (Volt).
• The pin number of the memory latches: For example, 288-pin for DDR4 PC RAM or 260-pin for DDR4 NB RAM.
• The speed with which the memory is addressed: For example 2666MHz. As a rule, memory is backwards compatible. For example, if a DDR4 module with 2666 MHz is installed in a mainboard that supports DDR4 memory with 2400 MHz, this can work, but the faster module will then only run at 2400 MHz.

DDR DIMM im Vergleich

Notes on dual channel operation (dual channel mode)

Identical modules, i. e. the same speed and size, are ideal for dual-channel operation.

However, current Intel and AMD Ryzen processors are capable of Flexible Mode. For example, if a second 16 GB module is added to an existing 8 GB module, the memory controller uses the full size of the smaller module and the same capacity of the larger module in dual-channel mode, i. e. 16 GByte (2 × 8 GByte) in the example. The remaining 8 GB are then addressed in single-channel mode.

Whether the installed RAM works in dual-channel mode can be determined with free RAM benchmark programmes by testing the speed before and after the installation of additional modules.

Installation

Please note that the computer must be completely switched off and disconnected from the power supply before the RAM is replaced or installed. Avoid touching the memory at the contacts.

Desktop memory: It is simply plugged into a free slot, whereby with four slots the colours of the slots or their numbers printed on the mainboard (for Dual Channel funtionality) must be taken into account. First press the two retaining clips all the way out. Then insert the memory bar, paying attention to the notch in the module, which is not exactly in the centre, to avoid polarity reversal. Then press the memory into the slot until the two brackets at the end of the slot are firmly attached to the module

Notebook memory: It is pushed into the slot at an angle of approximately 30 degrees and then pressed down until it clicks into place.

No further configuration steps are required after installation, neither in the BIOS nor in the operating system.

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The information in this article refers to:

• Notebooks and PCs

ChangeLog:

• 2025-03-19
  Initial version

Article in other languages:

• Deutsch

Review Date: 2025-09-19