Upgrade the memory and storage in your Acer laptop or desktop PC

Step 4: Finding your model number

You can’t find the appropriate RAM for your Acer system’s processor without knowing what model your computer is. Acer names its models in a few different ways, such as:

• TravelMate P4 14 TMP414-53-785A
• Aspire 5 Spin 14 A5SP14-51MTN-52ZC
• Chromebook Vero 514 CBV514-1HT-588K
• You can often find an Acer laptop’s model number on a label on the machine’s underside. Check the bottom of your Acer laptop for a sticker or label that should include that detail. If it isn’t there, it may be on the palmrest (the area of your laptop around the touchpad).
• Accessing the system information is also an option. Windows users can press Windows + R to open the Run dialogue box, then enter ‘msinfo32’. A window containing system information will appear, with the line System SKU. This is where you’ll find your computer’s model name and number.

Step 5: Using the Configurator

Enter the model number into Kingston’s Configurator: specifically, the Search by System/Device box. You’ll see either a list of variations, or one specific model, along with the brand name. Click on the appropriate link and the Configurator will tell you how much RAM your Acer system can accommodate. It may not be immediately obvious, since it’s accompanied by a lot of technical information, but the memory section will detail how much your model comes with as standard, as well as its maximum, whether you can upgrade or expand the system’s memory and the memory bank schema (or the configuration of memory sockets on your motherboard). It will note, too, if the model’s factory-configured memory simply cannot be removed, which is an issue some laptops have.

Step 6: Assessing the system results page

The Configurator recommends memory options chosen to be compatible with your system. Scroll down to find a list of memory options guaranteed to work with your system, as well as links to purchase: Kingston’s approved resellers or, in some territories, options to purchase directly from Kingston. The Configurator will also suggest storage upgrades, as a new SSD will not only improve the speed of file uploading and downloading compared to any hard drives you may be using – an SSD complements the task of upgraded memory in improving overall performance. A substantial storage upgrade could be surprisingly inexpensive.

Step 7: Installing your upgrade

Your next task is installing the memory into your system. This can be intimidating if you’ve never done it before. That’s why Kingston has video and text guides for installing memory in desktop PCs, as well as installing memory in a laptop.

• The first thing to do is back up your computer before undertaking any kind of upgrade. RAM upgrades are easier than other sorts, but accidents can happen, and it’s best to be prepared.
• Once your backup is complete, turn off the computer and, if you have a laptop, unplug the machine from the power adapter and remove the battery, if it is detachable.
• To avoid static electric discharges that could harm components, it’s important to work on the right surface. Avoid carpet, rugs or other fabrics. Keep pets away from your workspace. Touch metal before you begin your work, or wear an anti-static band to discharge any static electricity (ESD) that could damage RAM and other components inside the system.
• Unscrew the case or cover and put all screws in a safe place such as a box or plastic baggie.
• Your machine’s memory sockets might be protected by a metal plate or cooling shroud, which should also be carefully removed.

Modules to be removed are usually held in place by a clip; push either side to release the module from the socket then, making sure to touch only the outer edges, pull out the RAM module slowly. When installing modules, line up the module so the notch on the bottom aligns with the socket correctly. DIMMs plug into sockets vertically. Once the notch on the module is aligned with the socket, press firmly on the top left and right sides to secure it in place. A rocking motion may help. Once the module is seated correctly, the clips on the sides of the socket will engage, securing the DIMM in place. For SODIMMs, the module will slide into the socket at a 45-degree angle. When firmly seated, press the module down flat until the clips automatically engage, holding it in place.