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Why Upgrade? With all these new operating systems like Microsoft's Windows Vista and Apple's OS X Leopard, your computer may be begging for some techno-steroids. To quickly boost both the speed and capabilities of your computer, the first place to look is your RAM. If you are running with less than 1 GB (Windows Users: Right click "My Computer" and click Properties,) RAM provides a cheap and easy way to make your computer run like Michael Johnson. Ok, But How Do I Know What To Buy? First, find out what type of RAM your computer needs. Sound daunting? Just use <a href="http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductConfigurator.aspx?category=17&name=Memory-Configurator" mce_href="http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductConfigurator.aspx?category=17&name=Memory-Configurator">this tool</a> from NewEgg.com to find out! Next, you need to buy the right amount. With Windows Vista a minimum of 1 GB is recommended, but with prices for RAM so low 2 GB (bought as two sticks of 1 GB each) is a much better choice. Right now most online retailers like <a href="http://www.newegg.com" mce_href="http://www.newegg.com">NewEgg.com</a> and <a href="http://www.tigerdirect.com" mce_href="http://www.tigerdirect.com">TigerDirect.com</a> sell 2 GB of RAM for as little as $50. Fine, You've Convinced Me, Now Tell Me What To Do With These Things! Once you have your memory, it's time to perform the surgery and install it. Don't worry; this is a lot easier than it sounds! For desktop computers (not laptops,) first turn off your computer and unplug it. Now you have to first open your case. Most cases either have some screws along the back pane that require nothing more than your fingers or a Phillips-head screwdriver at most. Branded computer makes like Dell often have plastic tabs that just require one to push them down and lift the edge to open the case. Remember, the side of the case with all of the USB ports and plugs in it is the one that should be on the ground. Once you have opened your case, the next part is easy: Before touching any electronic components, make sure you first touch an unpainted, grounded metal object to discharge any static electricity stored on your clothing or body. This is VERY important! Locate the memory sockets on your computer. At least one of them will have a memory stick identical to the one you are holding in it. If all the slots are full, remove the necessary modules before installing. 19067

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Make Sure The Keys Line Up 19068

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Grab your upgrades by the outside edges (avoiding touching any gold "pins") and prepare to place them in the slots on your computer. For most computers, you can place the memory in any open slot you choose. First, note the "key" in your memory. This has to line up with the key on your computer. Next, if they aren't already open, open up the two plastic tabs on the side of the expansion slot by lightly pressing them outward. Finally, press your memory down into the slot until both plastic tabs close into the sides of the RAM. Repeat for all upgrade memory sticks. Close the case and turn on the computer. You may have to press enter before your system loads up. Congratulations, you have installed a memory upgrade! Note on latops: How to install RAM depends entirely on the model. Most Dell, HP, Acer, and old Apple models (iBook and Powerbook) have a screwed on panel on the bottom around the center of the laptop. When you open that you'll find the RAM, which looks like a short, fat version of what I described above. There will be a thin metal lever on each side that you should pull sideways until the RAM pops up. Then, place the new, bigger module in its place in the same fashion. With some laptops this is easier than others. The new Macbook Air, for instance, doesn't allow you to upgrade the RAM at all! Good luck! 19069

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