Random access memory is a working area for temporary storage of current information. The data from the random access memory is deleted when the power is turned off, i. E. this memory is volatile. The speed of a computer is largely determined by the characteristics of RAM, or RAM (Random Access Memory).
Instructions
Step 1
To increase the memory size on your system unit, you need to find out what type of memory your motherboard supports. Go to the manufacturer's website and find out this issue. There are three types of RAM in use today:
- DDR - per one working cycle, transfers 2 bits of information by each I / O buffer. The module (printed circuit board on which the actual memory chips are soldered) has 184 pins. The supply voltage is 2.5 V. This memory is almost outdated and is not supported by new motherboards;
- DDR2 - data transfer rate is 2 times higher than that of DDR, i.e. 4 bits per cycle, operating voltage 1, 8 V and 240 contacts on the module;
- DDR3 - transfers 8 bits per working cycle. Requires only 1.5V supply voltage. Like the DDR2 module, there are 240 pins.
The lower the supply voltage, the better the temperature characteristics of the memory modules and the entire system as a whole. This is especially important for laptops.
Step 2
Be careful when buying and trying to install RAM strips on the motherboard: the form factor of all three types of memory differs in the placement of the key (slot) between the pins. A bracket of one type cannot be inserted into a slot for another type without breaking the module or slot. Some motherboards have connectors for DDR2 and DDR3, but only memory of the same type can work at the same time: either DDR2 or DDR3.
Step 3
An important characteristic of RAM is bandwidth. It is equal to the product of the clock frequency and the amount of information transmitted in one clock cycle. Keep in mind that the memory clock speed must match the system bus clock speed - higher memory speeds are simply not supported by the motherboard. The high-speed module will operate at the system bus frequency, and its remarkable abilities will be wasted.
Step 4
Memory timings are of great importance - the number of clock cycles between the arrival of a command and its execution. The lower the timings, the higher the system performance. Not all sellers consider it necessary to indicate this parameter, therefore, before buying a memory, go to the manufacturer's website and carefully study all its characteristics.
Step 5
Parallel operation of two identical memory modules is called dual channel mode. In this case, the data transfer rate is doubled. In order for the modules to be guaranteed identical, it is better to buy kits - kits that are designed to work in two-channel mode. The modules in these kits have been tested when working together.
Step 6
Disconnect the system unit from the power supply. Remove the side panel and insert the memory strips into the corresponding slots firmly until you hear a click. The plastic clips securing the strips in the slots should close. After turning on the computer, when polling iron, the size of the RAM is reported in the second line of the screen. If the memory is supported by the motherboard and you installed the modules correctly, the system will show the correct result.
