If you notice sluggish system performance while operating your Compaq desktop computer, it may prove helpful to install additional memory. While Compaq desktops vary slightly from one model to another, the basic steps involved in adding memory modules remain the same. Although the prospect of working inside your computer may seem unnerving if you have no prior experience, the actual process of adding memory is very straightforward and should take no more than a matter of minutes to complete.
Shut down the computer. Disconnect the power cord, monitor, mouse, keyboard, Ethernet cable and any other attached devices from the computer. Move the computer to a clean work space and rotate it until the rear panel is in view.
Unscrew the screw securing the side panel to the rear of the computer. Slide the side panel toward you until it comes free of the computer. Remove the side panel and set it aside.
Place the computer on its side. Touch a nearby metal surface (such as the rear panel of the computer) to ground yourself before proceeding. Examine the motherboard and locate the sockets for the memory modules. Select the module socket located nearest the already-installed memory modules.
Align the notch on the bottom end of your memory module with the crossbar in the socket. Insert the module into the socket and apply firm pressure until it is fully seated.
Replace the side panel and screw it securely into place. Return the computer to its previous location and reconnect all previously disconnected cables and devices.
Turn the computer on and hold down the BIOS access key (depending on the computer, this key may be "F1", "F3", "F10", or "Esc." Examine the entries labeled "Installed Memory" and "Memory Bank" to confirm that the module is properly installed and recognized. Installation is now complete.
Apple has been making stylish and user-friendly computers for years. One of these computers, the iMac, is an increasingly popular desktop model. A notable benefit of owning one of these models is that most of the simple repairs and upgrades can be performed yourself, without the help of a service technician. This includes accessing and replacing your iMacs memory, or RAM (Random Access Memory) in order to upgrade your systems speed and capacity. Youll find that this procedure is a pretty simple one that you can complete quickly.
Turn off your iMac and place it face down on a table or other sturdy surface. You can protect the LCD screen by placing it over a towel or large cloth.
Flip the bottom plastic stand up to reveal the memory slot located in the middle of the bottom of the LCD screen. It is covered by a rectangular panel which is secured by a single screw.
Remove the single screw located in the middle of the rectangular memory slot cover, using the screwdriver. Remove the cover to reveal two internal ports which house memory modules.
Pull the thick black plastic tab on the end of the memory module out of the port so it is sticking out far enough for you to grab it.
Grab the end of the tab and pull the memory module gently and easily out of the port. Repeat the process with the second memory module located directly next to it. At this point you will have removed the memory from your iMac.
