Computers and Technology

Computers have become an intricate part of our society, that is why most of us will go out and buy a new one every couple of years. Purchasing computers can put a huge hole in our wallets that is why I suggest you upgrade your current computer yourself. It is easy and not time consuming; don't bother paying someone else to do it. There's one computer part that can easily boost your systems performance and give it some extra life. You may now be wondering, how do I go about choosing this part and then putting it into my machine. I will explain.

To increase your machine's performance overall you will need to upgrade your ram, also known as memory. This should not be mistaken with hard drive space. Ram is an important component in your computer to help it run efficiently. It stores the data of the programs you are running at that moment. When you have many programs open and you notice your computer beginning to run very slow, one reason is that you are using up too much ram. Fortunately, there is a solution, and it's easy to do, put more ram into your computer.

There are different types of ram and ram sizes. Generally, most newer home computers utilize DDR-RAM. Understanding the names is irrelevant. Since most home computers use DDR-RAM you can assume yours it too, but to be on the safe side you can check with your manufacturer or find the specifications regarding your computer system. The upgrade size you would find most useful to utilize is 512 mb or 1 gb. Either one should aid in meeting the demands of most of your computer needs. There are also different ram speeds. Most newer computers can handle PC-3200, which is a reasonable speed to choose when upgrading. PC-3200 would be on the box of the ram, you do not need to worry about its meaning.

Next step is to purchase ram. Ram looks like a large green stick of gum. It's small and light, so finding the item then bringing it home is not an issue. The price, depending on your choice, can range from $50.00 to $200.00. All depending on company, quality, and size. Choosing the right one is up to you, the more expensive ones tend to have advanced cooling technology incorporated into them. This can be useful, because overheating causes your computer in general to slow down, but
it is not entirely necessary.

Once you have acquired the ram you need to remove it from its box, remove any protective covers, then we can begin putting it into your computer. First you need to remove the wires from your computer then place the computer on its side. The side of your computer comes off, you just need to find if there is any mechanisms or latches that need to be moved or pushed to unlock the side. Next, you will see a big green board, this is your motherboard, there will be wires and cards coming out of it. You need to find the ram that's already in your computer it is not flat, but standing. Once you find it there should be an open slot next to the ram you currently have. Keep in mind if the computer has not been upgraded yet, there will be an open slot. Carefully place the ram in the slot and apply pressure until it snaps the two locking mechanisms in. Then you can put the case back together, plug in the computer, turn it on, and your performance will noticeably increase. Be sure to clean up your computers hard drive a bit, delete stuff you don't need. This will definitely help a lot
as well.

Cory Henig
Founder/President of XCSystems - http://www.xcsystems.com