Upgrading your laptop’s memory can give it a significant boost in performance, but it’s essential to choose the right components. If you’re working with a laptop model that doesn’t support XMP (eXtreme Memory Profile), you’ll want to stick with standard memory timings. Here’s a simple guide on how to upgrade your memory to improve your laptop’s capability.
First, let’s understand the specifics of your laptop. If you have a model with an Intel i5 7th generation processor, it likely came with 8 GB of DDR4-2133 memory. According to your service manual, your system supports a maximum of 16 GB, which would require installing two 8 GB DDR4-2133 RAM sticks.
For those looking to upgrade their memory, here’s a straightforward approach:
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Check the Current Memory: Before purchasing new RAM, check how much memory is currently installed. If you already have 8 GB and want to upgrade to 16 GB, you’ll need to add another 8 GB stick.
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Select the Right Memory Type: Your current setup works best with DDR4-2133 memory. However, since DDR4-2133 RAM might be hard to find, consider upgrading to an 8 GB DDR4-2400 module. This memory type is compatible and will work well with your system.
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Consider Alternatives: If you come across DDR4-3200 RAM, it can be installed too, but keep in mind that your laptop will downclock it to operate at the maximum speed of 2133 MHz. In other words, using either DDR4-2400 or DDR4-3200 will not harm your system, as it will default to the speed your laptop supports.
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Purchase the Memory: Retailers like Crucial offer the 8 GB DDR4-2400 CL17 memory, which is a good choice for your upgrade. You can check their website for compatibility with your specific laptop model.
- Installation: Once you have the new memory, you’ll need to install it. Make sure to power off the laptop and follow safety precautions before attempting to open it up. If you’re unsure about the process, refer to your service manual, or consider seeking assistance from a professional.
Following these steps will allow you to effectively upgrade your laptop’s memory, ensuring it can handle more applications simultaneously and run more smoothly overall. You’ll notice a significant improvement in performance, making your computing tasks more efficient.