How To Install a Memory Card in Your PC

Every computer needs adequate Random Access Memory (RAM) to perform well. Most major PC stores offer free installation of memory cards when you buy from them, but you have to bring in the Central Processing Unit (CPU) to the store. You can install a memory card in your PC on your own by following these simple steps provided below.

1. Know what memory card to buy. Check your computer manual for the type of memory card to buy as some types or brands may not be compatible with your PC.

2. Make sure everything is unplugged. Shut down your PC and unplug everything, even peripheral devices such as the monitor, scanner or speakers to avoid accidents. You may need to pull the cables attached at the back of the PC so that you don't trip on them.

3. Ground yourself. Touch another piece of metal to properly ground yourself.

4. Open your PC's casing. Check your computer's manual for instructions on how to open the casing. Usually the side panels are screwed down at the back where the wires and cables connect. Once it is opened and you see that dust has gathered inside, use a can of compressed air to blow the dust out. Lay the computer on its side for easier access.

5. Install the memory card. Align it to the memory card slot and firmly but gently push it in. Press it down evenly until the latches snap to hold the card in place.

6. Close your computer's casing. Close the casing by replacing the screws. Put the cables back on. Start your PC.

7. Re-install if needed. If your PC does not start up, you may have installed the memory card incorrectly so you may have to do the whole thing all over again. If this does not solve the problem, then chances are the memory card you acquired isn't compatible to your PC or might even be damaged.

8. Check if the memory card was installed properly. To be sure that your PC recognizes the new RAM, right click on "My Computer" and click on "Properties." The "System Properties" window will pop up, click on the "General" tab. The amount of RAM your hard drive should have will be listed last under the item "Support Information." If, for example, you added another 256 MB RAM to your existing RAM of the same capacity, 512 MB of RAM should be listed in this tab.