| If you're someone that uses their computer often, you | | | | used for additional memory. Right now, most PCs |
| know when it's time to upgrade your memory. You | | | | have an average of 2GB worth of slots, allowing you |
| can tell that things just aren't working as quickly as you | | | | to have that much memory. So, if you have only 1GB |
| want them to be. It might start with your computer | | | | of memory installed on your computer right now, you |
| simply being unable to run two programs at the same | | | | can probably add another 1GB. |
| time without troubles or you simply find that programs | | | | To find out how much more memory you can add, |
| don't work as well as they did in the past. However, | | | | you'll have to refer to your computer's user manual to |
| when you diagnose your problem, you need to learn | | | | see how you find this out. |
| more about memory before you can add more. | | | | Where to find upgrades |
| Why you need more memory | | | | When you're ready to buy more memory for your |
| In every computer, there is a certain amount of | | | | upgrade, it's best to go directly to a third party source. |
| memory that is available to run programs you have | | | | They will be able to give you certified memory that is |
| installed. When you first have your computer, this | | | | compatible with your specific computer - and will be |
| memory may only be partially taken up. But the more | | | | able to help you with installing it if you choose to do so. |
| programs you have and more files you have stored, | | | | You can also find upgrades at local computer supply |
| the more of this memory will be used up. When this | | | | stores and directly from the manufacturer, although |
| happens, you will not be able to run programs at the | | | | they are typically more expensive. |
| same time because there isn't enough "room" to do so. | | | | Can you do it yourself? |
| This can lead to frustrating computer crashes, slowed | | | | The good thing about upgrading your memory is that |
| performance, and troubles with installing new programs. | | | | you can usually handle this job on your own if you |
| Before you buy new memory, you might want to | | | | have basic knowledge about how computers work. |
| remove any excess files or programs you have on | | | | Simply purchase the memory from a certified dealer |
| your computer. This can be done by simply going to | | | | who can help you decide what is best to buy for your |
| your computer's Control Panel option on a PC and | | | | situation and then follow the directions to install it. |
| going to "Add or Remove Programs" and then | | | | When to call in a specialist |
| removing the programs you don't use. | | | | If you're trying to add a lot of memory - beyond 2GB - |
| The limitations on upgrades | | | | you might want to call in a specialist. You will also want |
| But if you don't want to get rid of anything on your | | | | to have someone else do it if you just do not feel |
| computer, you will need to look for ways to increase | | | | comfortable tackling the project. If you find at any point |
| the memory storage. However, depending on your | | | | in the installation that you are having troubles, you can |
| computer, you can only add so much memory. Most | | | | also call for help to get the memory in properly. |
| computers have a certain amount of slots that can be | | | | |