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Adding Kingston PC3200 Memory

Company:

Kingston Technology, www.kingston.com

Price:

$49 per 512MB module new on BuyXG.com

What do really old and brand new computers have in common? A lack of sufficient system memory. The older computer is no doubt bogged down by natural growth; things like OS upgrades (Windows XP), an increased number of applications being used (Excel, Word, MS Money), and a handful of new software programs (PhotoShop, Nero, etc.).

And the new computer probably shipped with a paltry 256MB - if yours came with 128MB, it’s a miracle you’re actually booted up right now to be reading this article!

Memory is typically the most cost-effective upgrade for your system, and often the most overlooked. Here we show you what a memory upgrade can do for you.

Ratings

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Getting Started

So you’ve never opened your box before… time to get your feet wet! You’re going to be surprised at how easy it is. First, turn off your computer and disconnect the power cord. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on opening your case (depending on how old it is there will likely be a series of screws and/or sliding tabs that free one of the side panels). Peer inside and locate your memory slots (they’re easy to find since your old memory modules are still installed). “Ground” yourself by touching any unpainted metal surface on the box, this clears you from ESD (Electro Static Discharge), which can cause damage to electronic components. If all of your sockets are filled, you’ll need to remove the lowest-capacity modules to make room for the new ones. To remove them, simply press downward on the (typically white-colored) ejector tabs on each end of the socket. To install the new memory modules, line up the module notch with the corresponding socket notch and press the module firmly into place until the ejector tabs lock down with a “snap.” Close your box, plug in the power, and turn on the computer – that’s it!

Appearance

Unless you’re a hardcore case modding enthusiast, you won’t care what your memory looks like. Modules are typically green boards with black chips.

Pros:

• Low cost
• Easy installation
• Dramatic increase in performance
• Lifetime warranty

Cons:

• You’ll need to do a little searching around to find the best price

Adding It All Up

A memory upgrade is one of the best favors you’ll ever give yourself. If you’re running Windows XP, playing games, editing and transferring digital pictures, or leaving multiple programs open at once – you need to be running on a minimum of 512MB. Remember that more memory is always better, and the higher density sticks you buy, the more you’ll be able to cram into an often limited number of sockets.

And don’t buy generic memory because it’s cheap! Choose a quality brand like Kingston and you’ll not only have the peace of mind that your computer will run properly, but you’ll also have a lifetime warranty to back it up.

Adding memory is always a great upgrade decision to make. Adding Kingston memory will definitely make that decision an easy, safe one. Because of the great value in adding Kingston memory to your machine, we are awarding this the UpgradAdvisor.com Recommended Upgrade Seal of Approval!

A special thank-you to Kingston for providing this product for review on UpgradeAdvisor.com.

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