by Bruce Tyson

Created on: February 12, 2010

All memory isn’t created equal. You’ll find that out if you go down to Office Max, buy some memory and then try to install it in your computer at home. You might be one of those lucky people who happen to pick out the right module, but the chances are that you’ll be taking it back for a refund. Here’s how to choose the right memory module for your PC.

1.    Find out from the manufacturer’s Web site.

Manufacturers usually have a robust self help product support area where you can type in the computer’s serial number or Service Tag and get manuals, specifications, and replacement parts.

There are a lot of manufacturers out there, so here’s an example using Dell. This only works if you have a Dell computer, but expect a similar process with your manufacturer’s Web site.

•    Get the Service Tag number from your computer. The service tag is usually on the bottom of your computer if it is a laptop, or on the back or top of your desktop computer.
•    Go to the Dell support Web site at http://support.dell.com.
•    When at the support Web site, click the “Parts and Upgrades” option found in the left column.
•    Type your Service Tag number into the box and then click “Search”.
•    On the categories screen, click “Memory.” You will be taken to a results screen that shows the maximum memory you can put into your computer and how many slots you have. Below are listed memory modules that are compatible with your computer.
•    If you have any questions, click the “Chat” button on the right.
•    You can order these parts from Dell, or you can print the screen and take it with you to your local computer parts store, or order the parts online.


2.    Find out from your system documentation.

Hopefully, when you got your computer, you got a system guide or at least documentation on CDROM. Look at the guide and it will tell you the kind of memory your computer uses and the maximum capacity of the system. In the case of HP, you should have an “Upgrading and Servicing Guide.” That will tell you what memory your computer uses or will refer you to an HP web site that will give you the information you need.

3.    Memory vendor Web sites

You can go directly to a memory manufacturer’s web

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