Hey there! Welcome to the HP Workbench video series.
I'm Steph and today I want to talk about upgrading your PC by installing memory.
Upgrading your PC's memory or RAM is an easy upgrade that really can speed things up
if your PC isn't feeling quick and snappy.
Running multiple programs or loading too many web browser tabs at once
can easily use up all your memory and slow down your PC.
If you've ever experienced this, it might be time to consider upgrading your memory.
Let's get the PC ready for the install.
First, power down the PC and remove any cables connected to it.
If you're installing memory on a notebook,
disconnect from any power source and remove the battery.
Before we go any further, it's very important to ground yourself before working on your PC
to avoid damaging your components from any static electricity.
It's a good idea to wear an antistatic wrist strap or to simply touch the metal case on your PC
while it's disconnected from any power source.
It's also a good idea to have a hard, flat surface area to work on and avoid standing on carpet.
Next, open the access panel on the side of your PC.
You might need a screwdriver depending on your model but most can be easily opened with your fingers.
For notebook PCs, you'll need to remove the panel on the bottom of the computer.
You'll need a small Phillips head screwdriver to get the cover off.
Some notebooks have multiple panels for easy access.
Look for the panel with the memory icon on it.
Once you have access to your PC's motherboard or system board, locate the memory slots.
The memory slots are usually located adjacent to the CPU.
The slots look like this.
The number of slots you have can vary depending on your model.
If you have empty slots in addition to your already installed memory,
then you can install new memory in those free slots as long as they are exact pairs.
If you're upgrading your memory, like I am, then you'll need to remove the old modules.
To do this, press down on the retention clips on the sides of the slot to release the module.
The process is very similar on a notebook.
Release the module by pushing the retention clips on the sides of the slot.
The module will spring up at an angle for easy removal.
With the old memory modules removed, it's time to install the new memory.
Remove the new memory modules from the packaging and be careful not to touch the contacts or the circuitry.
Hold the modules by their sides when handling them.
Notice the notch in the bottom of the module.
Make sure it's properly oriented so that it aligns with the notch in the memory slot.
If you're not using all the available slots,
look for a label on the motherboard that indicates which slots are on the same channel.
Usually they are color-coded,
but it's a good idea to read your motherboard manual if you're not sure.
Holding the module by its sides, slide it into the memory slot.
Apply equal pressure on both sides of the module
until the retention clips click and lock the module into place.
Repeat this process to install the remaining modules.
For notebooks, hold the module by its sides and slide it into the memory slot at about a forty-five degree angle.
Apply pressure until it's seated all the way down.
Then push the module down until the retention clips click and lock the module into place.
And that's it! Now you can replace the access panels you removed earlier,
plug your cables back in, and turn the PC back on.
Once the PC is back on, you can check to make sure that Windows recognizes the new memory.
Just press the Windows key and the Pause or Break key to open System Properties.
Locate the System section to view your PC's memory.
Alright, now we're all done. Pretty easy, right?
I hope this information has helped to answer your questions about upgrading and installing memory.
Make sure to check out our other videos in the HP Workbench Series for more information about memory.