1. POWER DOWN THE COMPUTER, THEN DISCONNECT THE POWER CORD

Ensure that there is no power going to the board. Remove the battery if installing on a laptop.

2. LOCATE THE RAM TO BE REPLACED

In laptops, two RAM inputs are typically located in a compartment on the bottom of the computer. If only one slot can be located on the bottom of the laptop, there may be an additional input under the computer’s keyboard.

In desktops, the RAM inputs can be easily located once the tower encasement/covering has been removed from the body of the computer. The RAM expansion slots are typically beige, black or white in color.

3. REMOVE THE OLD RAM TO BE REPLACED

There should be spring-loaded tabs holding the old RAM in place: one on each side of the RAM module. Simultaneously push the two tabs outward (away from the module), and the module will release from the spring-loaded mechanism. Once the module is released, it can be removed by firmly pulling the module away from its motherboard input connection. Depending on the computer, significant pressure (5 – 10 lbs.) may be necessary.

Repeat for additional modules

4. INSTALL THE NEW RAM

Insert the RAM into the motherboard input slot(s), making sure to note that the notch along the bottom of the RAM will only allow the RAM to be inserted correctly in one direction without causing damage. You may need to push firmly (10 – 15 lbs. of pressure) in order to ensure that the RAM has been installed fully and completely Push in the direction of the RAM slot so that the RAM engages the locking mechanism and "clicks" into place. (As a guideline, the gold leads on the bottom of the RAM should be fully covered after properly installed, or in some cases, only about 10% of the gold should be visible).

Notes: If the RAM does not immediately click into place, ensure that the small notch on the RAM lines up with the notch on the RAM input slot, and re-try with added force. Also, if the RAM does not “click” into place with the spring-loaded mechanism, it is likely that the module has not been installed correctly in the RAM input slot.

5. REPLACE THE COMPARTMENT OR CASE PANEL

When I install the ram and start my computer, I see a blank or black screen. Why?

After installing the RAM, I receive frequent “blue-screen” or system errors during system use. Why?

My computer does not register the total amount of RAM installed. Why?

The new RAM doesn’t work alone, but runs when installed with my old RAM or another module. Why?

When I install the ram and start my computer, I see a blank or black screen. Why?

Do you also hear beeping noise(s)? Some (older) computers were manufactured with motherboards that have trouble supporting newer, compatible memory configurations and speeds. If you have already ensured that the RAM is installed correctly and firmly in the slot(s), it is likely that a simple BIOS upgrade will correct this problem. On your Manufacturer’s Support page, search for your model's “BIOS upgrade” or “BIOS update.” For example, if your model is a Dell Inspiron 1100, search for "Inspiron 1100 BIOS upgrade." You can also search from any popular search engine for this update. The upgrade is free, and may also solve other firmware-related problems that you are having.

To upgrade your BIOS follow these links or search for your make and model

Dell Support

HP Support

Toshiba Support

After installing the RAM, I receive frequent “blue-screen” or system errors during system use. Why?

It is likely that your computer needs a BIOS update (as described above). We always attempt to provide the best configuration and speed available; this optimized memory may require that your computer has the best available firmware and software. Please check the support website to see if there are BIOS or Driver updates for your computer.

If these problems persist, it is important to re-install your old RAM and run the computer for a sufficient amount of time to determine whether the problem is the new RAM or another component of your computer. If the problem does not occur with the old RAM installed after 24+ hours, it would be prudent to try installing the new RAM one at a time (if installing multiple modules) to determine whether one of the configurations is problematic.

While defective items are a rarity, there is much that can happen during shipment and installation that cannot be anticipated in advance. If basic troubleshooting from our support team does not resolve the problem, it is likely that there are underlying compatibility issues or hardware issues. Please verify that your model is on the compatibility list provided by the auction page. We carry a full line of computer memory products, and most incompatibility issues can be resolved quickly and efficiently with a new configuration. Please review our auction return policy and contact us to return the item for testing and replacement, exchange or refund as per the Policy.

My computer does not register the total amount of RAM installed. Why?

The maximum amount of memory that your system can utilize is actually limited in several ways. Not only is there a maximum amount of memory that your motherboard can accept, but there is also a maximum amount of memory that your operating system (OS) can recognize. It has nothing to do with the memory itself, but rather your system’s capabilities. For example, if you install 4 GB of memory in a 32-bit Windows Operating system, a maximum of only 3.5 GB can be read by the Microsoft software. 64-bit operating systems can recognize the full amount. To find out whether your computer is 32-bit or 64-bit, please contact your computer manufacturer.

In addition, the amount of registered memory may be affected by any type of “shared memory” that has been allocated by your system settings for another purpose. The most common examples of use of shared memory are computers with “shared Video Cards.” Certain systems do not have an “on-board Video Card,” and instead use some of the RAM memory as a “shared” or “virtual” Video Card. Depending on the size allocated to video memory, your RAM capacity will be reduced accordingly in system settings. Please contact your computer manufacturer for more details.

The new RAM doesn’t work alone, but runs when installed with my old RAM or another module. Why?

Some computer models require that RAM be installed in “matching pairs” or similar pairs, and it will not function otherwise. Please verify that you are installing the new RAM in matching pairs. If pairs are present and this issue continues to occur, this may indicate a possible motherboard or RAM expansion slot problem.

My new hard drive doesn’t look like my old hard drive. Why?

My new hard drive is not recognized, stating “drive” or “operating system not found.” Why?

After installing the operating system, my computer freezes while loading. Why?

I don't have my original recovery and restore software. What can I do?

My new hard drive doesn’t look like my old hard drive. Why?

Make sure your old hard drive does not have an adapter attached to its connection-end. If your new drive and your old drive look similar but have different connection types, this is likely to be the issue. Refer to the installation instructions to remove the adapter and to attach it to your new drive. After the adapter is placed on the new drive, continue with the installation as instructed.

If your old drive has no adapter or the connection piece is non-removable, please verify that your exact computer model is on the compatibility list from the auction page of your purchase. If you are unsure of your computer’s model number, please see the manufacturer’s website or call their support department. Afterward, we will assist you with brief troubleshooting. We will require your computer’s service tag and/or serial number to validate the upgrade. We carry several different sizes and models of hard drive and a worst-case scenario can be resolved through a simple exchange.

My new hard drive is not recognized, stating “drive” or “operating system not found.” Why?

Compare your old hard drive with the new hard drive. Do you notice a difference in the connection pattern on the end that connects to the computer? If so, please refer to troubleshooting tips regarding a drive adapter. If this step has been verified, please revisit Part II, Step 1 of the Hard Drive Installation Instructions, or contact the manufacturer of the computer for steps necessary to properly boot from the new hard drive.

After installing the operating system, my computer freezes while loading. Why?

When this happens it usually indicates that there was an error in the formatting process or installation of the operating system. To remedy this problem, we recommend reformatting the drive and reinstalling the operating system. Please check to see whether your restore CD/DVD or media has been scratched, damaged, or corrupted, which may result in persistent installation issues. If problems continue, please contact our RAM-Memory Customer Service.

I don't have my original recovery and restore software. What can I do?

If you cannot find your original restore media, you still have options. “Clone kits” are available online and may allow you to duplicate your old operating system onto the new drive. You can also purchase operating systems at many large technology retailers online and in stores.

Any additional inquiries may be directed to axio.support@gmail.com