- 1). Read the documentation for your computer or motherboard to find out what the maximum RAM capacity is that can be installed in the system. Determine the type of RAM that must be used with the motherboard, as well. You need to know the specific type of SD, DDR or other RAM type to be used.
- 2). Click "Start," right-click "My computer" and select "Properties." If the operating system includes "X64 Edition," you can use over 4 GB of RAM because it is a 64-bit operating system. When you are using a 32-bit operating system, an advanced change must be made to the operating system boot file to allow applications to use more memory. The motherboard must still also support the amount of installed RAM.
- 3). Click "Start," right-click "Computer" and select "Properties," if you are using a 32-bit version of Windows XP and want to use 4 GB of RAM or more. Click "Advanced" and "Settings" under "Startup and Recovery." Click "Edit" and add "/3GB" (without quotes) to the last line and save the changes.
- 4). Shut down the computer and remove the power cable from the back of the case. Remove the side cover from the case using the handle or removing the screws holding it in place, depending on your computer.
- 5). Find the RAM slots on the motherboard, which are long connections with a tab on each end and determine the number of available slots which don't already have RAM modules installed in them. This is the number of RAM modules you can install. You can also replace installed modules with higher capacity modules if this is supported on the motherboard.
- 6). Remove a RAM module, if necessary, by pushing down on the tabs at each end of the connection slot and pulling up on the RAM. Install a new module by pushing down on the tabs and carefully pressing the RAM into the slot. Be sure that the RAM is properly oriented so that the pin gaps on the connection on the RAM match up with the raised area in the connection slot on the motherboard.
- 7). Replace the computer case cover and power cable. Power on the computer and click "Start," right-click "My computer" and select "Properties." View the new installed RAM amount under the "Computer" section.
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