How to Upgrade the Memory on a Lenovo IdeaPad C340-IWL15

The Lenovo IdeaPad C340 (15) can have its memory increased up to 20GB by upgrading (replacing) the memory. Here I explain how to choose the memory to add and how to install it.

1. Choosing the memory to add

2. Preparation before adding memory (tools)

3. How to add (replace) the memory

4. Checking after adding the memory

1. Choosing the memory to add

Going to Crucial's site lets you find memory that suits your computer.

If you tick "I agree to the terms of use" and click the "Let's get started!" button, a file called CrucialJPScan.exe is downloaded and running the exe apparently scans your computer — but I'd rather not run downloaded exe files if I can avoid it, so I clicked the "Find my computer" tab.

Enter your computer's model and click "Find upgrade products," and it will present compatible memory.

Your computer's model is written on the underside of the machine.

I wanted to increase memory to the maximum of 20GB, so I chose 16GB memory. The applicable options were the following three. In something like "DDR4-3200," the number after the hyphen is the memory transfer rate — the larger the number, the higher-performance the memory and the more data it can transfer. Choose what suits your budget and usage. The price is roughly ¥6,500–8,000 (as of November 17, 2022).

	​Crucial 16GB DDR4-3200 SODIMM CT16G4SFRA32A
	​Crucial 16GB DDR4-2666 SODIMM CT16G4SFRA266
	​Crucial 16GB DDR4-2400 SODIMM CT16G4SFD824A

2. Preparation before adding memory (tools)

I bought the memory and thought "right, time to add it!" — but when I went to open the PC cover, it was held by star-shaped screws and none of the tools I had at home could open it. So I hurriedly ordered a star-shaped screwdriver on Amazon for ¥379... A star screwdriver in size T5 will turn the C340's screws.

ANEX precision screwdriver, Super Fit, Hexalobular, no hole, T5x30, No.3542

・Star T5 screwdriver: for turning the cover screws

・Flat-head screwdriver: needed in some form when opening the cover

・Phillips screwdriver: for turning the screw holding the battery

3. How to add (replace) the memory

Back up the PC

Just in case, back up the data on the PC. A USB external HDD, the cloud, anything is fine.

Shut down

There's a normal shutdown and a full shutdown. It's good to do a full shutdown by holding Shift while shutting down.

Remove the cover

Turn the PC over and remove the screws with the T5 screwdriver. The screws are all the same size, and you don't need to worry about the order. There are 10 screws in total. They're small, so don't lose them.

Once all the screws are out, insert a flat-head screwdriver into the gap between the cover and the body and remove it carefully. Too much force and the plastic parts may crack.

Remove the battery

Disconnect the battery cable to avoid damage from working while power is connected. After disconnecting the cable, press the power button several times to discharge.

Swap the memory

Open the memory cover. It's held by clips in three places, so gently widen them while pulling and the cover comes off.

Gently open the metal clips holding the memory on both sides and the memory is released — pull it out carefully.

With the memory removed

For the new memory, gently insert the contact edge and push down the top (the lower side in the image) until it clicks into place. After that, carry out the previous steps in reverse and close the PC cover.

4. Checking after adding the memory

Once the PC is back together, power it on and open Task Manager. If the memory capacity shows around 20GB, it's a complete success.