How to upgrade RAM for compaq nx9010 - HP Compaq Business Notebook NX9010

Upgrading memory helps improve system performance. By following the step-by-step instructions in this document, you can successfully upgrade random-access memory (RAM) for all HP and Compaq notebook computers. While the graphics might not match your specific computer model, the steps will work. Read all instructions carefully before attempting memory installation. NOTE:Do not purchase memory modules until you know the type of memory used by the computer, the maximum amount of memory the computer can use, and the memory slot configuration. How to find the product number of your HP notebook PC To order replacement internal components such as memory, you must know the exact product number of the computer. For many HP notebook PCs, the product number and serial number are printed on a label on the bottom of the computer. Also, the product number and serial number are printed on the outside of the shipping box that you received when you purchased the computer. Product number locations can vary, and there are numerous methods to find the product number of your notebook. NOTE:A general family name may be imprinted on the case near the keyboard or on the frame around the display screen, but this does NOT provide sufficient information for ordering replacement parts. Finding memory information for your computer model (amount installed, maximum supported, and type of memory) Important memory upgrade information is in the specifications document for your HP computer. To find product specifications, browse to the Product Information category on the support page for your computer model. Refer to the Memory section within the product specifications document for memory information specific to your computer. Among the information listed, take note of the following items. It will be useful when purchasing memory and when performing the next steps. Amount of memory installed - The current amount of memory installed on your computer. Go to Verifying how much memory can be added to verify the amount of memory currently installed. Maximum memory supported - Subtract the amount of memory already installed from the maximum amount supported by the system to determine how much memory to get. You can also buy the maximum amount allowed and replace the currently installed memory. Once you know the maximum for your system, check Maximum memory supported by operating system to see how much memory your version of Windows will support. Use the lower of these two numbers as your maximum memory. Type of memory (including speed) - It is recommended to get the same type of memory (same size, same speed, same manufacturer) for each slot. For best performance, get the fastest memory that the motherboard supports. CAUTION: Due to the variety of possible configurations, some motherboards might not be able to properly configure memory if the array of small outline dual in-line memory modules (SO-DIMMs) contains a SO-DIMM that is not from the same manufacturer, has a different CAS latency value, or has a different density value (high and low used together). Make sure all SO-DIMMs meet the requirements of for the motherboard (the information listed in product specifications), have the same part number, are from the same manufacturer, and meet the basic memory requirements for your motherboard. If not, make sure that you can return the memory if it is not recognized by the system after you install the new memory. Determining where your memory is located Memory is installed inside of the memory module compartment, which is located on the bottom of the computer on most HP notebook PCs. Some HP notebooks are designed with the memory module compartment under the keyboard. If the memory module compartment for your particular notebook is located under the keyboard, HP recommends that you contact an HP-authorized support or repair facility for assistance in ordering and replacing the memory. Verifying how much memory can be added Prior to upgrading memory, you need to verify how much memory you currently have installed to determine how much memory can be added. Using your User Guide for memory installation instructions The User Guide contains helpful information and pictures showing how to remove and install memory in your specific notebook model. A copy of the User Guide is stored on the hard drive, and it is also available for download from the HP Web site. Installing memory Notebooks are designed so that additional memory can be added using a Phillips screwdriver. Use the following steps to install memory in an HP or Compaq notebook computer. After reviewing the following steps, if you are not confident in performing the installation yourself, contact an HP authorized distributor for technical assistance. NOTE: If someone other than HP installs or upgrades the memory, any damage caused by the memory and/or by a person trying to install or upgrade the memory is excluded from coverage under the product warranty. The customer assumes all risk and liability for damages for any such installation or upgrade. NOTE: Important! You might find that your HP or Compaq computer is able to support a physical installation of 4 GB or more memory. However, this maximum memory might be further limited by the operating system not being able to address the full range of physical memory. 32-bit operating systems, such as 32-bit types of Windows 7, Vista, and XP, can address approximately 3.3 GB. This limitation is present on all 32-bit hardware and 32-bit operating systems and is not limited to HP and Compaq PC systems or Microsoft software operating systems. Verify the computer is turned off, not simply in sleep or hibernate mode. Disconnect the A/C power adapter. Turn the notebook over and place it on a firm surface. Remove the battery. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the cover on the memory module compartment. (See the User Guide for instructions on how to remove the memory for the specific computer. If you need help finding the User Guide, refer to the section Locating your User Guide for memory installation instructions .) With the cover removed, and before you touch the memory, ground yourself to discharge any static electricity. NOTE: To ground yourself, and discharge any static electricity, place one hand on the case of the computer and touch the other hand to a metal surface or grounded object, such as the metal part of a lamp. To release the memory, use a small wooden tool, or fingernail, to spread the clips holding the ends of the memory in place. One side of the memory will rise when the clips are released. Remove the memory and place it in an anti-static bag. Remove the new memory from the protective anti-static bag and hold the memory by the ends. Place the gold contacts into the connector (bracket) and gently, but firmly, press the memory into place. The clips will click when the memory is properly seated. Replace the cover and tighten the restraining screw. Replace the battery and A/C power. Turn on the computer and allow it to reconfigure and recognize the additional memory and improve performance. Buying memory HP recommends purchasing memory directly from HP, an authorized HP dealer, or from a reputable computer parts supplier. You can buy computer memory from most local electronic stores and online shopping sites (such as www.crucial.com or HP , for example). Many of the online sites partner with HP to automatically suggest the correct type of memory based on the model of your computer. Before purchasing memory, make sure you know how much memory you need and what type of memory is compatible with your computer.