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Laptop Ram is in no way compatible with desktop Ram modules.
So if you have some "left over" desktop memory sticks
lying around, you cannot use them for your laptop.
The majority of laptop memory comes in the form of SODIMM
(Usually pronounced Ess-Oh-Dem) modules. The "SO"
stands for Small Outline. If you've ever taken out your laptop's
memory module to look at it (Akin to taking out your brain
to play with it. Be careful.) you'll immediately know what
I mean. It has very small footprint indeed. While we're here
let's mention that if you do take out the memory module to
look at it, please wear an antistatic wrist-strap or otherwise
rid yourself of any static electricity.
The actual memory module can be found behind a small access
point on the bottom of the laptop. This access point is covered
by a small plastic cover plate usually held in place on one
end by a small screw. Not exactly Fort Knox. If you remove
the screw and the plastic cover plate you can easily remove
the Ram module by just grabbing it and pulling it out. These
modules are pretty durable - just don't use a hammer on them.
If you notice the slots where they plug into the motherboard
you'll probably notice at least 2 slots. This is to allow
for [insert drum roll here] memory upgrades. What you'll need
to do is look in your manufacturer's manual you got when you
bought the laptop (or on the manufacturer's web site if you
bought it used and did not get a manual for some reason) and
look for the various memory configurations you can have. Also
pay attention to any brands of Ram recommended by the manufacturer.
They may also state that they will not guarantee proper operation
if other brands are used so read all of the caveats.
All in all laptop memory upgrades are fairly painless as
it is getting relatively inexpensive to add more Ram and you
won't be confronted with opening a desktop case and wandering
through a quagmire of integrated circuitry just to find where
it goes. And, let's face it; this is about the only add-on
the manufacturer wants you to perform to the innards anyway.
So when you find the perfect laptop at a steal of a price,
but wish it had more Ram, don't despair. You CAN do it.
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