How To Install RAM Memory For Your PC

Previously in our custom computer build, we covered how to properly install a CPU and install a heat sink. Now, it’s just about time to get the motherboard installed into the case and get to the core of the build. However, before we can do that, we will install our RAM memory.

Before Installing RAM Memory

Installing RAM memory is probably the easiest step of a custom PC build. However, there are a couple of things to make sure of, so that you install each RAM module correctly, and in the right slot. The general steps for installing RAM memory are as follows:

• Depending on how much RAM, and how many RAM modules you want to install may play a role in what slots to use on the motherboard. For example, if you purchased (2) RAM modules, each 2GB, and your motherboard has four total RAM slots, you will likely need to install these RAM modules into specific slots, so that they can run in dual channel mode. Alternatively, if you purchased (4) RAM modules, and your motherboard has four total RAM slots, it doesn’t matter what order you install them in.

• Consult your motherboard manual to find the proper RAM slots to run dual channel or triple channel. There should be a clear indication of which slots should be used.

• Any time your RAM module amount matches the amount of RAM slots on the motherboard, you can go ahead and install all RAM modules.

Remember from our guide to choosing parts for the build, it’s always best to use RAM modules of the same brand, capacity, and specs. For example, you would not want to use a 1GB RAM module in one slot, and a 2GB RAM module in another.

Make sure that you know which slots to install the RAM memory into, as some motherboards have been reviewed as ‘not being able to boot’ if a RAM module is placed in the incorrect slot.

Installing RAM Memory

• Push to release the levers on each RAM slot. There should be a small lever on each side of the slot, where the RAM module will be placed.

• (Important) Line up the RAM module with the pattern on the slot. RAM modules can only be installed one way. You may notice that the insert side of the RAM module has different lengths of contact area, which are separated by small gaps. Assure that your RAM module placement is consistent with that of the motherboard slots.

• Line up and insert the RAM module on the according RAM slot on the motherboard. Using a steady, even pressure push the RAM module into the slot until it is all the way down. Almost all of the time, you will hear a confirmation click once the RAM has been installed fully into the motherboard, and each of the clips should snap back into place. However, you may need to insert the RAM first, and manually relock the clips.

• Repeat the steps above to install any additional RAM memory modules.

Once you have installed the RAM memory, it’s finally time to mount the motherboard into the case.

Mounting the Motherboard

For this step, you will need some screws and spacers, that should have came with your PC case. The spacers will be used to create distance between the motherboard and the case, so that the board is not sitting directly against the wall of the case. The screws will be used to secure and fasten the motherboard in place. Check out these quick steps to installing a motherboard into a case.

• With the side panel removed, and the case open, locate the mounting holes for the motherboard. Normally, motherboards use 4-5 screws to be secured to a case. Thus, look for 4-5 holes.There may be several holes in the case, so you may need to hover the motherboard over the case and look for the according correct mounting positions. Usually, there are mounting holes in each corner of the motherboard which should apply to four equally spaced mounting holes in the case.

• Once located, insert a threaded spacer into each one of the motherboard mounting holes.

• Gently, maneuver the motherboard into the case and place it on top of the spacers. Remember, each spacer should be aligned with an according mounting hole in the motherboard.

• Once you have the motherboard properly and evenly seated, go ahead and insert the screws and fasten it in place.

That concludes this step of our custom PC build series. By now, you should start to see your custom computer coming together nicely, and starting to look assembled. Next up, we will install the graphics card and power supply.