To increase the random-access memory (RAM) of your computer, you must know the type of RAM it uses, how the RAM is presently configured and how many open RAM slots are available.


Steps:

1. Check the owner's manual or motherboard manual to determine if RAM is parity or non-parity.
    
2. Find out the speed of RAM (for example, 60 nanoseconds).
    
3. Determine whether the computer uses single in-line memory modules (SIMMs) or dual in-line memory modules (DIMMs).
    
4. Find out whether the computer uses regular, FPM, EDO, or Synch DRAM.
    
5. Determine the number of pins on the motherboard: 30, 72 or 168.
    
6. Remove the cover from the machine to find the number of open RAM slots. Look for between two and eight same-sized parallel sockets on the main circuit board. Usually at least two of those sockets will contain RAM - ruler-shaped circuit boards with chips on one or both sides.
    
7. Purchase additional RAM that matches existing memory specifications.
    
8. See the Related articles to learn how to put in RAM yourself; you can also get it installed (recommended if you don't feel comfortable opening up your computer case).
   
   Tips:
   Expect difficulty finding new RAM if your computer uses an early 486 Intel processor or a Macintosh 68040 processor, or older.
   
   If you have a newer 486 or an early Pentium or PowerPC (roughly 1994 to 1996), your computer probably has 72-pin, non-parity SIMMs.
   
   Newer Pentium processors probably have extended data output (EDO) RAM.
   
   Pentium II, Pentium III and post-1996 PowerPCs use DIMMs.
   
   You usually have to install SIMMs in pairs.