Chapter 13: Adding and Removing Hardware
Adding Memory Adding memory is simple because no drivers are required. To add memory, follow these steps:
- Shut down Windows, turn off and unplug the computer, open up the computer, and add the memory to available memory slots. Follow the instructions that came with your computer or with the memory.
Either use an antistatic wrist band (or a wire clipped to your metal wristwatch and the grounded metal frame); or, at the very least, touch a piece of the metal frame of the case to discharge static electricity before handling the delicate RAM, to prevent static shocks from damaging the RAM chips. You can even plug the computer back in while you are installing the memory chips, so that the third prong of the AC outlet connects your computer chassis to ground.
- Unplug the computer if you plugged it back in, close it up, plug it back in, and start it up. Most PCs do an internal memory test, notice that the amount of memory has changed, and possibly display a message before Windows starts.
- If your computer complains, enter the computer's low-level configuration setup (also called BIOS setup or CMOS setup), and adjust the configured amount of memory to reflect the total now installed. Then reboot. When Windows starts, it automatically takes advantage of all memory installed in your computer.
The BIOS Setup programs of most computers can be accessed during the bootup process by pressing the DELETE or F1 keys, as instructed. If Windows doesn't accept your new memory, the RAM card may not be seated properly or may be defective. Reinsert the memory card and try again. If you have another computer, test the RAM in that computer also.
