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Adding memory (RAM) to your desktop computer can instantly make your computer faster, increase system responsiveness, and make multitasking seamless. Installation is a quick process that’s done in just ten steps and the benefits are instant.

Looking to install memory in a laptop instead? Use our guide to laptop memory installation.

Precautions Before Installation!

Static electricity can damage the components in your system. To protect your system’s components from static damage during the installation process, touch any of the unpainted metal surfaces on your computer’s frame or wear an ESD wrist strap before touching or handling internal components. Either method will safely discharge static electricity that’s naturally present in your body.

To protect your memory module, avoid touching the gold pins or components (chips). It’s best to hold the module by the top or side edges.

Upgrade Desktop Memory (RAM) - 10 easy steps to install memory in a desktop computer

Installing memory can be done in a matter of minutes, but there’s no need to feel rushed. Work at your own pace and consult this guide or the video as often as you need to!

Step 1 - Gathering Supplies

Clear off your installation space and make sure you’re working in a static-safe environment. Remove any plastic bags or papers from your workspace. Then, you’ll need the following items:

  • Your desktop computer
  • Crucial® desktop memory
  • Screwdriver
  • Owner’s manual
memory installation supplies

Memory installation supplies 

Step 2 - Shut Down Your Desktop Computer

Because your files, documents, and data are on your storage drive, not your Random Access Memory (RAM), they remain unaffected during this process.

Step 3 - Unplug the Power Cable

This includes any cables and accessories plugged into the computer

Step 4 - Hold the Power Button for Five Seconds

This discharges any residual electricity still in the system.

Step 5 - Open the Case

For instructions about opening your specific system, consult its owner’s manual. You can also take pictures as you work through the process to see where cables or screws are attached to make it easier to put back together.

open computer case

Open computer case 

Step 6 - Ground Yourself!

Touch an unpainted metal surface – this is an extra safeguard that protects your computer memory and components from static damage during the installation process.

Finger touching an unpainted metal surface in the interior of a desktop PC to discharge static charge

Ground yourself 

Step 7 - Remove Existing Memory Modules

Press down on the clips on the sides of each module, the clip mechanism will push the memory module up. You can then pull the module completely out.

Hands removing memory from a desktop computer

Computer memory removal 

Step 8 - Install Memory

Holding the modules along the edges, align the notches on the module with the ridge in the slot, then apply even pressure and firmly press the module in. It usually takes about 30 pounds of pressure to fully install the module.

Hands installing memory into a desktop computer

Note

Some desktops require you to install modules in matched pairs (memory banks). If this is the case, the slots will likely be labelled for how the memory should be installed. If you only have two memory slots, don’t worry about this – proceed with the simple install.

Arrow pointing out the memory slot labels inside a desktop

Memory banks 

Step 9 - Close the Computer Case

Step 10 - Plug the Power Cable in

Your Memory is now Installed!

Boot up and enjoy a more responsive computer that’s now better equipped to run memory-intensive apps.

Helpful Hints and Installation Troubleshooting Tips

If your system does not boot up, check the following items:

  • If you receive an error message or hear a series of beeps, your system might not be recognizing the new memory modules. Remove and reinstall the modules. Push down hard on the modules until the clips fold back up.
  • If your system won't boot, check all the connections inside your computer. It is easy to bump a cable and pull it out of its connector, which will disable devices such as your hard drive or CD-ROM. 
  • When restarting your system, you might get a message prompting you to update the configuration settings. Refer to your owner's manual for information. If you are still unsure, please call Crucial Technical Support for assistance.
  • If you get a memory mismatch message, follow the prompts to enter the Setup menu, and then select Save and Exit. (This is not an error—some systems must do this to update the system settings).
  • If the groove on the memory module and the ridge in the computer do not match up, do not force the module into the slot. You might have the wrong type of memory.
  • Your system recognizes only half of the new module's memory. To make sure the computer is registering the memory you’ve added, follow these steps:

    1.  Click on the Start menu or Windows button
    2.  Right-click on Computer or My Computer
    3.  Select Properties
    4.  You will see the Installed Memory (RAM) listed. It should match the amount you installed.  
  • If you encounter problems after checking these helpful tips, please contact Crucial Technical Support.

Enjoy your new memory!

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