There are several precautions you have to take when installing memory for PC or Mac. Without taking these precautions, the memory may not work at all, or not as well as you would like. Here is what you need to consider when installing memory for PC:

• Buy the right memory. Either do a search using the manufacturer, make and model of your computer, or use our computer memory finder. Memory upgrades are not universally compatible.
• Turn off the computer and discharge static electricity before opening the memory's packaging or your computer itself. Ignoring this point can destroy the memory stick or your computer! Use an anti-static band or gloves.
• Do not touch the memory chips (the black parts) on your new memory stick. Only touch it by the edges when installing. Oils from your fingers can cause the memory stick to overheat and burn out when it's operating.
• Do not mix different memory sizes. It may seem like you can add a 1Gb memory stick to a computer with a 512Mb memory stick and get 1.5Gb of memory. Multiple memory sticks only add to the total memory available if they're the same size.
• Watch the memory test when you boot your computer to make sure that it's registering that you installed new memory. If it doesn't display the amount of memory you just installed, either you didn't seat the memory stick well enough or it's a faulty stick.
• Try some of the tips on our memory troubleshooting guide if you are still having difficulties.