What Will You Need?
Your Laptop
A small Philips Screwdriver
New Memory Chips
Patience
Changing or Installing more Memory
Changing or upgrading the memory on your old laptop may seem like a daunting task, but it is much simpler than one may think. First you simply need the tools listed above for most laptop models. You can buy your memory at a local computer store, or order it online from various places, just make sure that you get the proper memory for your laptop model. Most laptops will use a Philips or a star shaped screwdriver to open the memory access panel.
Now that you have everything you need in one place, make sure the power cord to your laptop is unplugged and the laptop is powered down. Flip the laptop over and look for a small panel usually near the middle of the laptop, it is about 2 inches by 3 inches and will typically have one screw only. Loosen the screw and remember lefty loosy, righty tighty to unscrew the panel. Open the panel and set the lid to the side. Look inside and you should see something similar to what is in the package you purchased to replace the memory chip(s).
Next, open the electrostatic protective packaging that should contain your new memory chip(s). If there is an open memory slot available in your computer, gently insert the chip at the same angle as the chip that is already installed and press down gently until is snaps into place. If you are replacing the old memory completely then you will need to remove the old memory chip first. You can remove the old chip(s) by gently pushing outward on the two metal clips that hold the old memory in place. The memory should pop up a bit at which time you can gently pull it straight out. Now you are almost done!
Replace the memory access panel and tighten the screw to hold it in place. Flip your computer face up and after plugging in the power cord, power up the computer. Check your memory under the computer settings and if everything went as planned you will see the new memory is already recognized by your laptop. This is simply one of the easiest DIY projects you can do that is inexpensive and will give your laptop a new life. You should notice that it is faster and more responsive while doing your daily computing tasks.