Laptop Fan Failure

The laptop fan is an integral part of any laptop. Laptops create an enormous amount of heat and excessive heat can cause components to fail. Combine that with the fact that laptops are getting smaller and more compact, and there is even less room for air to circulate. All of these factors make the laptop fan or fans an even more important component. Since the laptop fan is such an important part of a laptop, it is wise to know the signs of a failing laptop fan.

1. Overheating

Almost every laptop will heat up somewhat under heavy use. In most cases, you will hear the fan begin to spin faster and make more noise when this occurs. If your laptop begins to get excessively hot and the fan does not appear to be spinning faster, it may be failing.

2. Strange noises

If you hear strange whining or grinding noises, the source could be a failing laptop fan. In some case, the bearings of a fan wear out or lose their lubrication, and the result is a noisy or grinding fan. You should replace it immediately.

3. Laptop locking up

If your laptop freezes or locks up, especially when performing a processor-intensive task, it could mean a laptop fan failure. Excessive heat is one of the primary causes for computer freezes. If this problem persists, try replacing the laptop fan.

4. Fan keeps running

In some cases, the laptop fan may continue to run and run at full speed, even when the laptop is not hot enough to warrant it. This can also be a sign of a failing fan, as it is not responding to the laptop’s signal to lower the fan speed.

Replacing a laptop fan can be a simple job or a very complex one depending on your laptop model. Some fans are easy to access, while some require a lengthy disassembly process. You can check around in search engines for replacement instructions specific to your model to take some of the mystery out of replacing your laptop fan.

How to replace your HP laptop’s memory

Upgrading your HP laptop’s memory is one of the best ways to get better performance, and it is also one of the easiest upgrades to make. The procedure may be different for each model, but the same basic instructions apply.

1. It is not a bad idea to back up important data in case something goes wrong. Shut down the HP laptop and remove the battery. Also, unplug the laptop from the wall to ensure no power is going to the machine.
2. With the screen closed, flip the laptop over and find the RAM access door. In most cases, it will be marked with a picture of a RAM stick. If you cannot find the access door, check the user manual for your HP laptop.
3. Unscrew the access door and remove it from the laptop.
4. The memory has clips holding it in. In some models these clips need to be opened to the sides. In other models you must press on the memory and it will swing out toward you to be removed. Remove the memory by gently but firmly pulling it toward you.
5. Replace the new memory in the same slot as the old memory. Make sure the notch at the bottom of the memory stick matches the notch in the slot and gently but firmly slide it into the slot.
6. Replace the securing clips if necessary for your model of laptop. Swing the memory back into place if necessary for your model.
7. Replace the access door and any screws.
8. Replace the battery, power up the HP laptop, and verify that the correct capacity of memory is being recognized.

Replacing memory is a very simple process that can be safely performed by most users, but it is always a good idea to consult your user manual for the location of the access door and specific information on how to replace the memory for your model of laptop. It is also a good idea to consult a computer parts retailer that can ensure you get the correct memory for your computer, and can also advise you on the maximum amount your laptop will support.

Toshiba Laptop Memory Replacement

When looking at upgrade options for a Toshiba laptop, you will find that upgrading the laptop memory is likely to have the greatest impact on the overall performance. Programs store their data in RAM when they are running. If multiple programs are open at once and the laptop runs out of free memory, it must begin using the hard drive to store and retrieve the extra data. Since hard drives are much slower than RAM, this results in slower performance. Upgrading memory allows users to run more programs with fewer slowdowns and speed up operating system load time.

Replacing your Toshiba laptop memory is one of the simplest upgrades to make. The basic steps are as follows:

1. Disconnect the AC adapter and remove the battery to ensure no power is going to the laptop. This reduces any risk of electric shock when disassembling the machine. The battery is most often removed by sliding the battery slider and removing the battery.

2. Locate the memory access panel on the bottom of the machine. It is usually marked with an icon that resembles a memory stick. In some cases it may be located behind the battery. If you have trouble locating this panel, consult your manual or a service manual for the exact location.

3. Remove any screws securing the memory access panel in place and remove it.

4. Gently release the two fingers holding the memory stick on each side and it should swing upwards. Carefully pull it out of the slot. Repeat for the second stick if there is one.

5. Place the new memory stick in the lower slot and snap it down into place. Repeat for the upper memory stick if there is one.

6. Replace the memory access panel and screws.

7. Replace the battery and reconnect the AC adapter. Boot up the computer and test that the full amount of memory is recognized by the computer.

At this point, if the memory is recognized and the laptop is working properly, you are finished. If you are having trouble you may want to check that you selected the proper memory module for your machine, or the possibility that the memory is not seated completely in the slot.

Diagnosing a Laptop AC Adapter Problem

Laptop AC adapters can sometimes take a lot of abuse. As an external part of a laptop, they are designed to be rugged, but problems can still crop up from time to time. If you suspect that yours may be having an issue, here are some steps for diagnosing a laptop AC adapter problem.

1. Try another power outlet. This may sound silly, but if you are not getting power to your laptop through the AC adapter, try another power socket to ensure that is not the cause of the problem.

2. If possible, try another AC adapter. This may be more difficult, but if you have a friend or a repair shop that has a compatible AC adapter, try one that is known to be working. If the problems still persist, you know the AC adapter is not to blame.

3. Try running the laptop without the battery. Sometimes problems with the battery can cause symptoms unrelated to the AC adapter. If the laptop runs fine when running only from the AC adapter, it is likely caused by a faulty battery or some other component.

4. Look for signs of wear and tear on the AC adapter. Large cracks on the "brick" or transformer could be signs of problems, as can frayed wires or bulging. If any of these conditions look serious, replace your AC adapter.

5. Listen for strange noises. AC adapters that are failing often make whining noises or other strange sounds. Replace the AC adapter if necessary.

If you have tried the steps above and are still uncertain whether your laptop AC adapter is faulty, it may still be a good idea to order a replacement. As one of the least expensive parts of a laptop to replace, it may be worth the peace of mind knowing that your AC adapter is working correctly.

Review of types on connectors found on AC adapters

When it comes to laptop AC adapters, there are a wide variety of connectors that connect the adapter to the laptop’s power supply. Manufacturers specifically try to make their adapter unique for each model, and even compared to other manufacturers, to avoid a user plugging an adapter into the wrong machine, which could cause damage. Here we will look at a few of the most common types of connectors.

Barrel Connectors

Most modern laptop AC adapters use a “barrel” type of connector. It consists of a cylindrical shaft that is hollow inside. When the barrel is connected, a pin (tip) goes inside the barrel, and the outer portion of the barrel makes contact with a different part of the power supply. The tip usually carries the positive pole while the barrel carries the negative pole. Barrel connectors come in a wide variety of sizes to avoid confusion between different manufacturers and models. For example, HP laptop parts often use a different pin and barrel size than another manufacturer such as Acer.

3-Pin and 4-Pin Connectors

Some laptops and AC adapters use a 3-pin or 4-pin type of connector, also referred to as a “Snap and Lock” type. These connectors use a large cylindrical connector with 3 or 4 pins inside. Snap and lock connectors are particularly useful in laptops that are designed for durability, as they are very stable and secure, and not prone to breakage.

Oval Connectors

Oval connectors are similar to barrel connectors, but utilize and oval shape to prevent connecting them to standard barrel connections, since connecting an adapter to the wrong laptop could cause damage to the system board or other components, requiring a costly laptop repair. They are not used frequently.

Octagon Connectors

Octagon connectors are similar to snap and lock connectors, but they utilize 8 pins that give even more stability and a more solid connection.

Finding the proper HP Laptop AC Adapter

If your HP laptop is not charging the battery while your AC adapter is plugged into the laptop, you probably need a replacement Laptop AC Adapter. It is important to ensure you have the correct AC adapter for your specific HP laptop, as using an incorrect adapter could potentially cause damage. Here are a few methods for finding the proper HP laptop AC adapter.

The simplest method is to use an online parts locator tool. Many online retailers offer such a tool. Simply enter your HP laptop’s model number into the search and the tool will provide you with the proper replacement parts that are compatible with your specific model. The benefit of this method is that you are often given a choice of both OEM and third-party Laptop AC adapters for your HP notebook. Third-party adapters are often much less expensive than their OEM counterparts, and as long as they are purchased from a reliable source, should perform every bit as well as the OEM version.

Another method of finding the correct AC adapter for your HP laptop is to use the support software provided. Click Start, the Help & Support. Here you will find the product name, model number, and serial number. This will help you locate the correct part for your HP laptop. The product’s serial number is usually located on the bottom of the machine as well. You can call HP support directly to order a replacement AC adapter, though this will usually be the most expensive route. Another option is to call or email an online retailer with your model number and serial number, and they can often help you locate the correct part.

Finding replacement parts for an HP laptop is not as difficult as it once was, with the benefit of online parts locator tools. It is now a simple process to find parts even for older models. Take advantage of the many tools available for finding an AC adapter for your HP laptop.

PCMCIA Cards, Cardbus and ExpressCards - What exactly is the difference?

PCMCIA, Cardbus and ExpressCards are similar technologies that are very easy to confuse with one another. In fact, many experienced computer users still get the standards confused. Let us try to shed some light on the differences between these three standards, and eliminate some of the confusion.

PCMCIA

PCMCIA stands for Personal Computer Memory Card International Association, the organization which standardized the format. It is an interface for connecting external memory cards, modems, and other devices to a laptop as a means of expansion. It later began to be referred to as “PC Card” instead of its long acronym.

The first cards were Type I cards, which had a 16-bit interface and were 3.3 mm thick. These Type I cards were prevalent on many of the early Compaq laptop systemboards. Type II cards are somewhat thicker, at 5.5 mm, and use either a 16-bit or 32-bit interface. Common Type II devices are modems and network cards, which often have to use a dongle, as their height does not support a full-size jack. Type III cards and devices are even thicker, at 10.5 mm thick, and can support full-size connectors without dongles and even hard disk drive cards. Type II Cards were the standard size of PCMCIA Card for some time before they were replaced by CardBus.

CardBus

CardBus is the successor to PCMCIA. In fact, it is the name used for cards and devices that supported the PCMCIA 5.0 or later specification. It has much in common with the PCI bus on a desktop computer, as it provides a 32-bit, 33 MHz PCI bus with a smaller form factor designed for laptops and notebooks. Most CardBus slots support earlier PCMCIA devices, but CardBus devices can not be inserted into older slots, as they are notched differently. If these newer cards are forced into the older PCMCIA slots, it can cause damage to the card slots and a relatively expensive laptop repair.

ExpressCard

ExpressCard is the latest successor to be developed by the PCMCIA organization. It was introduced in 2003 to replace earlier form factors. There are two form factors included in the specification that are used on laptop systemboards; Expresscard/34, which is 34 mm wide, and ExpressCard/54, which is 54 mm wide. ExpressCard/54 cards can be rectangular or L-shaped, supporting either 26 pins or 68 pins. ExpressCard/54 slots are often used on HP laptop systemboards to support a remote that conveniently hides away in the slot. The ExpressCard interface allows for much more bandwidth than previous technologies, up to 2Gbit/s. This allows users to connect high-speed disk drives and other devices that need more bandwidth to operate effectively.

Understanding the progression of these three technologies will hopefully clarify their differences and applications. Currently, ExpressCard slots offer the best performance for external devices, but it will likely be replaced by a faster technology in the future as well.

Ways to Extend the Life of Your Laptop Computer

Laptops can sometimes be troublesome devices, and anyone who has had either a hardware or software problem with a laptop may have wondered if there was anything they could have done to prevent it. While some problems are unavoidable, there are a few steps that any user can take to help prolong the life of a computer and prevent problems from occurring.

1. Cleaning

Dust and dirt are two of the biggest enemies of a laptop computer. Since dust buildup can sometimes cause overheating, it is important to ensure that it doesn't affect the function of laptop fans or block air circulation. Turn off the laptop, remove the battery, and gently spray compressed air into any vents in the laptop to dislodge any dust buildup every few months.

2. Repairs

If you suspect you may be in need of a laptop repair, don't put it off. In many cases, you may be able to perform the repair yourself. Do a search for Toshiba laptop parts or HP laptop parts, for example, and you may find the replacement parts you need to solve the problem yourself. Putting off a necessary repair could cause more damage to your laptop and lead to more problems down the road.

3. System Maintenance

Not all laptop problems stem from hardware issues. In many cases, users purchase a laptop because their old one has become very slow. This is often caused by software problems. Every few months, uninstall any unnecessary software on your machine, defragment the hard drive, empty the recycle bin, and clean up temporary files. If the system still seems slow, you could consider backing up necessary files, formatting the hard drive, and reinstalling the operating system.

4. Upgrades

As a laptop computer ages, it may not have the performance to handle newer software. This can be a good time to make upgrades to your machine. For most laptops, upgrading the memory to the maximum amount supported is the most cost-effective upgrade. Upgrading the hard drive is also a great way to gain more storage space for files.

At some point every laptop becomes obsolete and will need to be replaced, but if you follow these steps, it will be less likely to be due to hardware or software failure of some kind. With a little extra care, you may find your laptop outlives its expected life.

Common Issues That Can Lead to a Dead Laptop

When it comes to laptop repair, few things are worse than a dead laptop. Once a laptop does not turn on or respond in any way, it is difficult to even diagnose any kind of problem. Here, we will explore some common issues that can lead to a dead laptop if not addressed ahead of time, in the hopes that you can avoid a costly repair or replacement in the future.

The most common cause of a "dead" laptop is the laptop systemboard or motherboard. Because the systemboard controls input and output of data to and from each component, and also controls the power to each component, a problem with the systemboard often means a laptop will not respond when turned on. Many problems are caused by overheating, which can often be avoided by periodically cleaning dust from all fans and vents, and keeping good ventilation to the laptop at all times.

Many dead laptops are caused by a bad battery or a faulty AC adapter. If the laptop is not receiving power, or is receiving the wrong voltage, for example, it may not even turn on or respond. Check the AC adapter periodically for damage to cables or the transformer, and test your battery with battery monitoring software to avoid these problems in the future.

Less frequently, a dead laptop can be cause by a failing laptop CPU. This can also be caused by overheating, as the CPU creates a high amount of heat inside the laptop. Most often, however, a CPU problem manifests as a laptop that crashes or gives errors, rather than one that is dead. If you suspect that you may have a CPU issue, its best to take the machine into a repair center for diagnosis, as they will have the tools and parts to address the problem you are having with minimal investment on your part.

Defective laptop memory is not often directly a cause of a dead laptop, but memory that fails or is inserted incorrectly can sometimes result in damage to the systemboard, which can cause the laptop to cease functioning properly. Always be sure you are inserting memory correctly by lining up the notch and pins, and ensure that the memory is compatible with your specific model.



By keeping these common problems in mind and keeping an eye out for them, you can often avoid a major problem before it begins, saving yourself the time and money of a costly repair. Spending just a few minutes on prevention can help your laptop to have a much longer and more stable life.

Common issues that will slow down any Laptop Computer

Everyone who has used a computer for an extended amount of time has likely notice that it tends to slow down over time, especially computers running the Windows operating system. There are many causes that can make a computer slow down. Let us look at a few of the main culprits, and what you can do about them.

Software Build-up

The longer you use a computer, the more software that gets installed on it. After a while, this software can begin to build up and slow down the computer. This is especially true of programs that run automatically when the computer is first booted, such as antivirus programs or instant messaging clients. Each of these programs may only use a small percentage of the available RAM and CPU processing power, but add many of them together and it can add up to a lot. They may also eat up hard drive space which will ultimately slow down the PC also. Uninstall as many unnecessary programs as possible in the Control Panel using the Add/Remove Programs utility.

Lack of Memory

A computer or laptop with too little RAM is prone to slow down, especially when too many programs are running at once. When RAM gets full, the computer must use the page file on a hard drive to store open programs. Since transferring data to and from the hard drive is much slower than RAM, this will cause the computer to slow down. Consider adding the maximum amount of RAM your laptop can support for a speed boost. You can check with your laptop manufacturer or a spare parts supplier to see if your machine has room to add more RAM to help improve its overall performance. Also consider disabling or uninstalling programs that run in the background, this can help regardless of any upgrades you do to your machine.

Lack of Free Space

In some cases, lack of free hard disk space can cause a computer to become slower. Try freeing up space by uninstalling unnecessary programs and deleting unnecessary files. Most hard drives operate best with 20% of their storage space free. This allows room for the drive to temporarily swap files when moving and for other necessary tasks. If you cannot delete enough files to free up space, consider upgrading to a larger hard drive. They are available from most online part suppliers at very affordable prices.

Hardware failure

Some pieces of hardware that may be failing or beginning to fail may slow down your machine also. Laptop cooling fans are a common issue, for example the Toshiba laptop fan on the Satellite A15 has a pretty thorough history of failure due to outside contaminates getting into the fan and causing it to spin too slowly or not at all. This type of problem will often cause unresponsiveness from the machine, Windows errors, shutdowns, and often times the dreaded blue screen. The fan is pretty easily replaced by a qualified repair center and is not very labor intensive.

It may seem that computer slowdowns are a necessary fact of life, but following these few tips can help you get your computer running much faster. With the few upgrades and troubleshooting methods mentioned above, you may even find your laptop performs faster than it did out of the box.



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Advantages and Disadvantages of a Tablet vs. a Laptop

Tablets have been around for a number of years, but only in recent years have they become a viable replacement for a laptop computer. With the release of the iPad and similar competing models, many users are ditching their laptops in favor of the portability and simplicity of a tablet. But what are the advantages and disadvantages of making the switch? Let us take a look at some of the most important tradeoffs.

Portability

The main benefit of tablets is their portability. Compared to a laptop, which may weigh from 4 to even a hefty 12 pounds, a typical tablet weighs around 1.5 to 3 pounds, depending on the model. This is a significant savings in weight, especially for a frequent traveler. The slim profile and lack of a keyboard also makes most tablets much more compact and easier to use in tight spaces, like an airplane seat.

Keyboard and Mouse

Tablets generally lack a keyboard and mouse. Depending on user preference, this can be a blessing or a curse. Models such as the iPad and Android tablets are designed with a touch-screen interface in mind, so a lack of a mouse is not a huge problem, but Windows tablets sometimes suffer, as the interface was initially designed with smaller icons and elements that don’t always translate well to a touch-screen device. Users can usually add a mouse and keyboard to a Windows tablet, but this adds extra bulk, negating some of the advantage of portability.

Hardware and Connectivity

Laptops have an advantage in that they usually offer more storage and devices such as a CD/DVD burner built right in. Many tablets, such as the iPad, don’t have any easy way to connect or use many external devices. Windows tablets usually offer more connectivity, allowing users to connect external devices, but this comes at the cost of more bulk, which might make a laptop a more efficient choice.

Summary

Overall, the choice between a laptop and a tablet has a lot to do with user preference and the aspects that are most important. Those who prefer a more streamlined interface and want extra portability should probably choose a tablet. Those who find tablet interfaces to be too simplistic, or need a physical keyboard and other devices, such as an optical drive, should probably choose a laptop.



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What type of computer is best for you? Netbook, Laptop, Desktop, All-in-one Computer?

When shopping for a new computer, you are faced with a number of options, but none is more important than the form factor, or the type of computer. The choice of a laptop, desktop, or other styles is largely based on your specific needs. Here we will look at the most common types of computer, and the type of user that is most likely to prefer each type.

Desktops

The traditional desktop computer is declining in popularity as most users are gravitating toward the portability of laptop computers. The benefits of a desktop machine are still valid, however. Those who need the most powerful computer possible, or those who need to be able to easily add or remove hardware components, will generally prefer a desktop computer. Desktops are also preferred for users who wish to power multiple displays and those who are heavy gamers.

Laptops

The laptop computer has been growing in popularity in the past few years largely because it has nearly caught up in performance to desktop machines. Instead of having to choose between a powerful desktop machine or a slower laptop, users can now have both. Laptops will appeal most to users who desire portability but also solid performance.

Netbooks

As one of the most portable form factors available, small netbooks provide greater portability than laptops but at the cost of providing less performance. They are well-suited for users who value portability and don’t mind trading it for reduced speed, less multi-tasking ability, and less storage.

All-in-one machines

All-in-one computers are those that include the CPU and LCD display in one self-contained unit. They will appeal most to users who want a slim design that is easy to connect and to use. Many all-in-one machines are also very affordable, making them a good choice for smaller budgets.



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Intel Core i7 Mobile Processor Review

Intel has recently announced their Intel Core i7 Mobile Processor, which takes their Core i-series technology and applies it to laptops. This is an exciting development that continues to bridge the gap between desktop and laptop performance, but what are the main benefits of a Core i7 processor? Let us take a look.

While processor speeds in the past were based mainly on MHz, this is becoming less of an issue with the introduction of multi-core processors. Now, multi-core processors provide the equivalent of 2 or more CPUs in a single chip, making the MHz rating less relevant and boosting performance at the same time. While the Core i7 Mobile processor is faster than previous chips, its speed is only one of its many improvements.

The Intel Turbo Boost Technology included in the chip essentially allows the cores to run faster than their base frequency, provided it can do so within power, current, and temperature limits. In many ways, this is equivalent to over clocking, but the chip will not do so in a situation that could potentially cause overheating or overvoltage, reducing the risk of damage.

The Core i7 also has video encoding speed boosts built in, and Intel claims it is up to 81% faster at encoding video. The chip can also improve artificial intelligence in games by up to 31%, according to Intel, for more realistic games.

The Core i7 can support up to four cores and also supports Intel’s Hyper-Threading Technology, allowing it to better utilize multiple cores and even process two threads per core. This simulates the equivalent of 8 cores of processing power in some situations. The chip can support up to 8 MB of cache for faster processing of data, and it supports two-channel DDR3 1333 MHz memory.

There is no doubt that laptops and notebooks are beginning to replace desktops as most user’s primary computer. The Intel Core i7 Mobile processor provides the power and benefits of Intel’s latest chip to these mobile platforms, making this an even easier transition for many users.



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Laptop Parts and Symptoms

One of the most common issues with laptop batteries is overheating. Not that the batteries are designed poorly or improperly but due to, in most cases, user wear and tear. While the laptop is using the AC adapter for power the battery acts as a backup in case of a loss of power or accidental unplugging. During this AC power use the battery becomes hotter than it would if being used independently. To lessen the chances of this overheating, which leads to a shorter life expectancy of the battery, keep the AC power adapter plugged in only if you need to charge the battery while using the device.

If the battery is consistently hot to the touch, remove it and allow it to cool down making sure it is close to room temperature before reinserting it. Should the battery continue to overheat or get too hot it will probably need to be replaced. Always replace a defective battery as soon as possible as it could cause irreparable damage to the laptop in question. In addition to overheating, failure to charge or hold a charge is another very common issue with laptop batteries.

First check to see if the AC adapter is securely plugged into the device; the tightness of the connection will vary from laptop to laptop but it should be held in place well. To check for a good connection look for the battery charging LED if one is present on your laptop.

If it is not on wiggle the cord to see if the connection makes and breaks contact. If you notice a flickering LED light then the solution is a new adapter which is far better than needed to purchase a new battery or a new DC power jack which can be repaired by a common user with a little instruction and help.

The top 5 parts to go bad on a laptop

A laptop is made up of a large number of components that all must function well in order for your computer experience to be complete. Unfortunately, this often means that a single failure in any one component can cause your entire laptop to be out of commission until it is repaired. Here are the top 5 parts that are most likely to fail in a laptop, and why.
Optical Drive
CD and DVD drives, and even newer Blu-ray drives, contain more moving parts than most other laptop components, which makes them more likely to fail. In addition, the reading lens is often susceptible to scratches and other damage. If your optical drive fails, it can often be replaced at an affordable price.
BatteryLaptop batteries are fairly destined to fail, as they lose capacity over time until their maximum capacity is no longer useful and battery life is extremely short. Luckily, replacing the battery is one of the most simple and painless items on the list.
Hard Drives
Companies that sell backup products often tell you it is not a matter of “if” your hard drive will fail, but “when.” This may be a bit dramatic, but the fact is that hard drives and their moving parts are a common point of failure for laptops. Replacing the drive is fairly simple, but getting your data back is more difficult. Always use a good backup plan that will allow you to recover your important files in case of a hard drive failure.
LCD Screen
The LCD screen of your laptop draws more power than any other component, making it susceptible to power problems. Diagnosing the issue is often challenging, as it could be a problem with the screen itself, the inverter, or other problems. See a repair shop for a good diagnosis.
AC AdapterThe AC adapter is an overlooked component of a laptop, but is essential for keeping it up and running. It is also the most likely part to fail on any laptop, printer or desktop (power supply). AC adapters tend to get knocked around and shoved in and out of bags, making them susceptible to physical damage to the cords and the transformer unit. Like batteries, AC adapters are very easy to replace.
If you find that a component of your laptop has failed, see if the repair is covered under warranty. If not, and the repair is simple, consider performing the repair yourself, or consult a repair shop for help.

How to replace RAM in a laptop

In today’s rapidly changing society, the need for interchangeable parts is growing increasingly more popular. Replacement RAM for a laptop can be a great way of increasing the speed of the laptop in its entirety. Speed is not the only reason for changing out the laptop RAM (Random Access Memory). It can also be the solution to a number of troubleshooting problems that may occur with your personal computer.

Most laptops have a single-screw door that can be opened for easy access to the RAM, and simple spring-loaders that hold the unit in place. Slowly press each side of the spring-loader’s release, and carefully extract the RAM, making sure that the RAM will not pop up into the air, and damage other parts inside the laptop.

Next, take the replacement RAM and line it up with the slots, but also while checking to see if it is being placed in properly (most are slotted to ensure proper placement). This can be checked by looking at the other RAM modules that are currently installed and follow the direction that the old RAM faces.

The notches on many laptops are located differently, and they also prevent the installation of older RAM modules, that require a higher voltage, from being placed into the slot. As with all computer parts, always handle the RAM by the edges, and never touch the gold contacts. The oils from your fingers can degrade the connection and cause a failure within the module. The next step requires seating the memory module by pressing down, firmly, with your thumbs on both ends of the module to confirm a safe and strong hold on the RAM.

Finally, after successfully placing the RAM into the slot, the only step left is to replace the door and screw it into place again. To verify the attempted RAM upgrade was successfully installed right-click on “My Computer” and select “Properties”. Under the selection of “Computer,” your expanded RAM size should be listed.





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A Guide to Memory Technologies

Memory Technologies
Since the early days of computing, RAM (random access memory) has been necessary for storing temporary information that the computer needs to access quickly. Since that time, however, memory has undergone many changes and configurations. Let us look at some of the major types of memory and their differences.

DRAM

(dynamic random access memory) distinguished itself from earlier SRAM (static RAM) in that it used a transistor and capacitor to store its data, and it is the basis for most modern types of RAM.

SDRAM

SDRAM (synchronous DRAM) was one of the earliest types of RAM to come in separate sticks that could be replaced, as earlier memory types were part of the motherboard. The modules operated at 3.3 volts and used 168 pins to transfer data.

Rambus (RDRAM)

Rambus was a technology used by Intel from 1999 to 2003. It offered better performance than current solutions at the time due to the fact that the memory could read and write on the rise and fall of a clock cycle, effectively doubling its throughput. The technology never became widely mainstream and was replaced by other options.

DDR, DDR2, etc.

DDR SDRAM (double data rate synchronous dynamic RAM) is an improvement on the original SDRAM technology. The technology has the ability to read and write on the rise and fall of the clock cycle, similar to Rambus, and has continued to evolve to faster clock rates and better performance over many years. The original DDR standard was replaced by DDR2, DDR3, etc. but none of the standards are backward-compatible, making it impossible to use older memory in new computers.

Memory technologies have continued to improve and evolve since the dawn of computing, and there is no reason to think they will stop any time soon. As more and more computers move to solid-state drives instead of platter-based drives, the performance bottlenecks are improved, meaning faster and better-performing RAM may be needed again soon.





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Laptop Parts and Symptoms

One of the most common issues with laptop batteries is overheating. Not that the batteries are designed poorly or improperly but due to, in most cases, user wear and tear. While the laptop is using the AC adapter for power the battery acts as a backup in case of a loss of power or accidental unplugging. During this AC power use the battery becomes hotter than it would if being used independently. To lessen the chances of this overheating, which leads to a shorter life expectancy of the battery, keep the AC power adapter plugged in only if you need to charge the battery while using the device.

If the battery is consistently hot to the touch, remove it and allow it to cool down making sure it is close to room temperature before reinserting it. Should the battery continue to overheat or get too hot it will probably need to be replaced. Always replace a defective battery as soon as possible as it could cause irreparable damage to the laptop in question. In addition to overheating, failure to charge or hold a charge is another very common issue with laptop batteries.

First check to see if the AC adapter is securely plugged into the device; the tightness of the connection will vary from laptop to laptop but it should be held in place well. To check for a good connection look for the battery charging LED if one is present on your laptop.

If it is not on wiggle the cord to see if the connection makes and breaks contact. If you notice a flickering LED light then the solution is a new adapter which is far better than needed to purchase a new battery or a new DC power jack which can be repaired by a common user with a little instruction and help.





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