Speed Up Slow Computer Systems

The first step is to know your manufacturer, series, and EXACT model number. If you don't have this information, below are three sources that can help.

- Invoice/user's guide/original paperwork
- Computer case - front, back, sides, top, bottom
- On Windows PC, go to System Information
(Programs > Accessories > System Tools > System Information)

You may need to leverage more than one of these options to get everything needed. Gather as much as you can and jot it down. An example would be as follows: Manufacturer=IBM, Series=ThinkCentre, Model Number=M51 8104-XXX. If you end up with only some of it, don't worry, I'll tell in the next step how to get help with the rest.

The next step is to determine how much RAM is installed in your computer versus the maximum RAM your model will accept. If there is a difference between the two, you can upgrade. If you have a Windows PC, go to System Information as explained in Step 1 and look for Total Physical Memory and Total Virtual Memory. Write both down. If the latter is larger than the former, you have room to upgrade.

Alternately, you can right click on the My Computer icon on your Desktop and select Properties as demonstrated in the videos below. In the lower right corner you will see the system RAM, but it will not display the max RAM allowed.

Once done, you are ready to go to the memory finder tool. I recommend the one at Silicon Mountain Memory. It is easy to use, accurate, and you can get assistance if needed. Once there, follow the instructions for the Memory MatchMaker. This is where you will need the manufacturer, series, and model number. If you weren't able to find everything needed, click to live chat, or call the number on their Contact Us link for assistance.

By now, you have either found your RAM upgrade options with the online tool, or you have engaged a Silicon Mountain representative. In either case, you will want to know all the RAM specs for your system. Assuming you made it through the 3 step Memory MatchMaker you will see RAM module purchase options. Below that you will see a purple box containing some specs. The one I am looking at is for an IBM ThinkCentre M51 8104. Within that box is: System Profile, Standard Memory, Maximum Memory, and Slots.

System Profile is your computer. Make sure it is correct.

Standard Memory is the factory-installed RAM. In my case it reads 256MB (removable). Check to see if your number matches your system's Total Physical Memory. If it does, your system has never been upgraded. If it doesn't, factory specs have changed but you can still upgrade if it is less than the max allowed. (Note: 1024MB = 1GB)

Maximum Memory is the max allowed for your computer. This should match your system's Total Virtual Memory (if it doesn't, get some chat assistance to make sure you have the right specs). On my page it is 4GB.

Slots is the number of memory receptacles in your computer. My slots = 2. This means I can install a maximum of two RAM modules.

Given my specs, the proper way to get to a total of 4GB Maximum Memory would be to populate each slot with one 2GB module. That is what would speed up my slow computer to the max. So I would order QTY 2 of the 2GB modules. I could also order QTY 2 of the 1GB modules but I would not be maximizing my computer performance and may be disappointed with the results, if not immediately, within a year or so. Bear in mind, RAM should be upgraded in pairs of identical modules whenever possible (older laptops are sometimes an exception). Don't order just yet.

You're almost ready to order but before you leave this page refer back to the specs box. A link at the bottom should read View Installation Guides. Click on that, select the appropriate guide, and print it. Then browser-back to place your order.

Installing RAM is quick and easy. Printed installation guides and instructional videos below make it possible for anyone to do. Upgrading RAM will not affect programs or files and your computer reads the new RAM automatically so you do not need to enter any code or do anything further. Just turn it back on and enjoy faster speeds.

Although the systems depicted on video are PCs, it is no more difficult to upgrade MACs. RAM upgrades will always speed up slow computer systems, PCs and MACs alike. Adding the RAM yourself saves time and money and does not compromise your computer warranty.

With years of experience selling IT solutions to corporations, governments, and educational institutions, I know the value of memory upgrades. I recommend them to Fortune 500 companies as well as my friends. There is no better bang for your buck than upgrading RAM to speed up slow computer systems.

Silicon Mountain Memory offers the best value among memory manufacturers with 30-40% discounts for online purchases, and a guarantee that you will boost your system performance or your money back. But you won't want your money back. You'll be thrilled with the results and the money you saved from not having to buy a new system.



New Limited Time Coupon. See Black Box for details.