Recently, I upgraded my computer's memory, which sounds a lot more complicated than it really is. However, before you consider a memory upgrade, first you need to find out what type of memory you need. Get your serial number and call the computer manufacturer. Or you can look up the memory type and options at their web site or other third-party memory sites like www.Crucial.com.
Once you have purchased the correct chips, read any documentation that comes with them. Now unplug everything from your PC except the power cord. Leave the power cord plugged into a power strip with the switch turned off, so it remains grounded. When handling memory or really anything having to do with computers, static electricity is your enemy. If you have one, you can wear an anti-static wrist strap. If not, always touch a non-painted metal part of the case before touching anything in the PC.
Take off the cover from the case and find the memory slots. This location information should come with the new chips or may be in the manual that came with the computer (if you got one). Some memory needs to be installed in particular configurations (bank 0, bank 1) so pay attention to the documentation.
Now you need to remove the old memory chips. Although they vary, chips are on cards that often are held in place by clips at the ends of the card. Grab the plastic part of the board at the ends and try to pull it straight up. If you have trouble, you can gently attempt to work it out by angling it back and forth slightly.
To install the new ones, you need to reverse the process. Most memory boards are keyed in some way (like a cut out) so you can't put them in the wrong way. Place the new memory in the slots as described in the documentation. It should go in fairly easily with a satisfying "click" when it's firmly in place. (If it doesn't just pop in, you may be trying to put it in backwards.) Working in a well-lit location really helps matters.
Once everything is in place, attach a monitor and keyboard and turn the computer on. If everything worked, the computer should boot up. You may have to reconfigure the BIOS, but in most newer computers, Windows XP just recognizes the memory and you're set.
If you hear a lot of little beeps, something went wrong. Turn off the computer and try again. Often the memory chip isn't seated correctly. If it still doesn't work, you may need either different memory or a BIOS upgrade. In other words, unfortunately, you probably need to call technical support.
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