Performance/Gaming Memory - Support

In Windows, click on the start button and open "Control Panel".Use classic view for Vista and 7. Then open "System". This will display basic information about the computer including the amount of RAM installed.

In MacOS, select "About This Mac" or "About This Computer" from the Apple menu in the upper left corner of your Desktop. This will provide information about your Mac's total memory (built-in memory plus DIMMs or SIMMs installed).

In Linux, open a terminal window and enter the following command: cat /proc/meminfo

This will show the total amount of RAM as well as other memory information.

FAQ: KTM-012711-GEN-06

First, make sure you have the correct memory for your notebook. Refer to Kingston's online Memory Search at www.kingston.com for assistance. After confirming that you have the correct memory for your system, do the following:

1. Prior to memory installation, first shut down the notebook, then remove the battery pack and unplug the power cord. Reseat the memory firmly into the socket and then push down on the memory to lock it in place. Replace the battery pack and power cord and boot the system. If the installation is still unsuccessful, try inserting the memory into a different slot, if available.
2. If you have properly installed the recommended memory and the PC still does not boot or recognise the memory, you may need to download the latest BIOS from your computer manufacturer's Website.

Note: Kingston is in no way responsible for any problems resulting from flashing the BIOS. Flashing the BIOS is merely a troubleshooting suggestion. Customers who flash the BIOS do so at their own risk. All instructions on how to upgrade the BIOS will be provided by the computer manufacturer or the 3rd party BIOS manufacturer and not by Kingston.

FAQ: KTM-012711-GEN-12

1. Shut down and unplug your computer.
2. Reinsert the memory module(s) with the largest capacity in the first socket followed by the smaller capacities in descending order. To ensure the memory modules are installed properly, line up the memory notches with the key in the memory socket, then push the memory firmly into the socket until the tabs lock the memory into place.
3. Make sure all the cables in your computer are connected properly. You may have failed to connect a needed power connector to the motherboard or accidentally disconnected a cable to your hard drive.
4. If you have properly installed the recommended memory and the PC still does not boot or recognisethe memory, you may need to download the latest BIOS from your computer manufacturer's Website.

FAQ: KTM-012711-GEN-13

Additional memory will not necessarily increase the performance of your computer. It will allow you to run more programs or processes at once or more memory intensive programs. There may be a performance increase if the original amount of memory installed was close to insufficient for the programs and processes you use the computer for.

FAQ: KTM-012711-GEN-07

For desktop computers, shut down and unplug your computer and open the case. Please note: The higher capacity memory should be installed in slot 1 followed by the next lower capacity memory in slot 2 and so on. Please refer to your motherboard manual for proper slot identification.

Remove the memory module as shown in Fig 1. Push the tabs (1) outward and the module will gently pop out of its slot (2). Remove it completely from the slot.

To install the new memory module, see Fig 2. Push the tabs (1) that are at the ends of the memory socket outward and align the memory notches with the key of the memory socket (2), then push the memory down FIRMLY into the socket so the latches lock the memory in place (3). If the memory has been properly installed and you have the correct memory but it is still not being detected, you should make sure you have the most up-to-date BIOS from your computer manufacturer's website.

For notebook computers, please note that you need to shut down the unit and remove the battery pack and power cord before you remove/install memory. Push the memory into the socket FIRMLY so that it makes good contact (it is important to push the memory in FIRMLY) before pushing it down to lock it in place (see figures below) . Once the memory has been installed, put the battery back in your unit and supply power using the power cord and not solely from the battery. If the memory has been properly installed and you have the correct memory but it is still not being detected, you should make sure you have the most up-to-date BIOS from your computer manufacturer's website.

BIOS - Basic Input/Output System is installed on the computer's motherboard. It controls the most basic operations and is responsible for starting your computer up and initialising the hardware. It is data that is usually held on a ROM chip and can be updated by "flashing" the BIOS. BIOS upgrades may correct errors, support new CPUs, and support new hardware including memory. BIOS updates are usually obtained from the computer's manufacturer's website.

*NOTE: Kingston is in no way responsible for any problems resulting from flashing the BIOS. Flashing of the BIOS is merely a troubleshooting suggestion. Customers who flash the BIOS do so at their own risk. All instructions on how to upgrade the BIOS will be provided by the computer manufacturer or the 3rd party BIOS manufacturer and not by Kingston.

FAQ: KTM-012711-GEN-18

Parts sold in kits (denoted by "K2" or "K3"in the part number, e.g. – KVR400X64C3AK2/2G) are specifically packaged for use in Dual or Triple Channel motherboards. Although Dual and Triple Channel technology resides on the motherboard itself (inside the chipset), the memory modules need to be installed in pairs or sets of three for Dual or Triple Channel mode to function properly. Identical modules packaged in a kit work best because the motherboard will be accessing all the memory modules as a single memory location with a wider bandwidth. Kingston suggests the use of modules sold in kits for Dual or Triple Channel enabled motherboards.

FAQ: KTM-020911-GEN-19

In many cases, the BIOS or a diagnostic program will report the memory bus frequency, which is half of the frequency for DDR type memory. As its name implies, DDR (Double Data Rate) data rate provides twice the memory bus frequency. So if the memory bus speed is 800MT/s and you are using DDR3-1600 memory, the RAM is running at the correct speed.

FAQ: KTM-071015-GEN-20

• ElectroStatic Discharge, ESD is simply the discharge of built up static electricity.ESD should not be taken lightly as this is one of the few things an individual can do to damage or destroy their computer or hardware components.It is like when you rub your feet on the carpet and you touch something metal.ESD can occur without the user feeling a shock and will occur when only working on the inside of the computer or handling hardware.
• How to help prevent ESD
• The best method of preventing ESD is to use an ESD wrist strap or a grounding mat or table.However, because most users do not have access to these items, we have included the below steps to help reduce the chance of ESD as much as possible.          
• Standing – We recommend that you are standing at all times when working on the computer. Setting on a chair can generate more electrostatic.
• Cords - Make sure everything is removed from the back of the computer (power cord, mouse, keyboard, etc).
• Clothes - Make sure not to wear any clothing that conducts a lot of Electrical Charge, such as a wool sweater.
• Accessories - To help reduce ESD and help prevent other problem, it is also a good idea to remove all jewelry.
• Weather - Electrical storms can increase the ESD risk; unless absolutely necessary, try not to work on a computer during an electrical storm.In very dry areas, the air itself becomes a part of the electrostatic build-up mechanism every time there is an air flow (wind, air conditioning, blower) passing over an insulated surface.Do not let high humidity levels build a false confidence, and beware of corrosion problems with interconnects and other electrical interfaces.

FAQ: ESD-SSD-001