Save money and upgrade RAM yourself

So, things are tightening up and you really can’t afford a new computer. And the one you have is showing its age. What can you do? Well several upgrades: add more RAM (Random Access Memory), add a video card, or add a hard drive. Since RAM has a direct effect on performance I’m going to start there. It is also one of the easier do-it-yourself upgrades.

Before we start there are a few assumptions we need to make. First, the computer is not more then 3 – 4 years old. Next, you are running WIN XP. For those of you who refuse to give up on WIN 98 or ME your only real choice is a new computer. And last, you have a little mechanical ability.

RAM is what the computer uses to run applications. When the machine was new it came with what was available. That was then this is now. Over the years software has been added, applications have grown and all these use RAM. Add to that tool bars (bad), messangers, and games the RAM gets used up.

First check the RAM. Right click on the Task Bar. Then select Task Manager. When the dialog box opens choose the Performance tab. Here you will see neat little graphs that show how much you have and how much you are using.

The next step is to determine what type of RAM you have. Find this in System Information from the Control Panel, in your computer documentation or online.
You will also need to know the maximum amount the system can support and how many memory slots you have and are being used. You can see this by removing the cover.

Once you have the new RAM it is fairly easy to install if you are careful. ALWAYS remove the power. Lay the computer on its side and remove the cover. Always keep touching metal to discharge static! Line up the notch in the Ram with the notch in the slot and snap it carefully but firmly into the slot. You will here it ‘snap’.

Set the two locks on each side of the slot and you are done. Close it up and boot the system. If all went well the system will see the RAM and you’re on your way. If the boot fails and the machine is beeping like crazy, re-seat the Ram and try again.
Freeing up a resource like RAM goes a long way to overall performance. AND of course if you have any doubts call a professional.

Chris Kaminski is the head designer and web developer at Lone Bird Studio Ltd., an Asheville web design and SEO company in North Carolina. Clients include top companies in North Carolina health insurance, medical, news media, and government. Lone Bird Studio also specializes in creating niche market websites for that realize the necessity of e-commerce as the new marketplace.
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Asheville Web Design studio combines design and seo techniques

With the economy in a recession, business trends have moved online. Companies large and small are making the move to survive. What they are finding is competition for front page exposure in the top search engines is stiff. Increasingly , they are seeking out web design and SEO companies that demonstrate the experience and track record of proven success. Due to higher gas prices and increased internet security, shoppers are buying online.

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Chris Kaminski is the head designer and web developer at Lone Bird Studio Ltd., an Asheville web design and SEO company in North Carolina. Clients include top companies in North Carolina health insurance, medical, news media, and government. Lone Bird Studio also specializes in creating niche market websites for that realize the necessity of ecommerce as the new marketplace.