RAM
Computer
memory is called Random Access Memory (RAM).
The information stored in RAM can be accessed randomly, rather than
sequentially. This means that data can be found in any location at the same
rate of speed. Other storage media, such as CD-Rom and hard drives, must wait
while the drive spins to the correct location before the data can be accessed.
Computer
memory is simply a storage area for the program code and the data that program
uses. Computer programs use RAM to
write and retrieve information, allowing for fast data retrieval and
manipulation.
How Much RAM is Enough?
Simply stated, the answer is,
as much as possible. Keep in mind, though, once you’ve reached a certain upper
limit, which is determined by the computer program(s) used, investment in more
memory will see a diminished return.
Adding more memory is one of
the best ways to maximize computer performance. If you compare 2 identical
computer systems, the one with the most memory will over-all be the faster.
More RAM allows the computer to place more program instructions into memory,
relying less on the slower hard drive.
Think of 512 Megabytes (MB)
as the base standard for a modern computer. With that you can multi-task (run
several applications concurrently). For instance, you can check email and
download MP3s, without noticeable sluggishness.
Some applications, however,
are more memory-hungry than others. Graphics programs, for example, are
notoriously greedy. Memory needs are further exaggerated by the operating
system used. Microsoft Windows is far more demanding than, say, Linux.
Currently, most PCs use Windows, though.
Should you notice your
computer slowing down, consider adding more memory. Before committing to that
option, however, try de-fragmenting your hard drive with a utility (program)
designed for that sole purpose. A fragmented hard drive is a common cause of
stalled computer performance.
Types of RAM
Right now DDR SDRAM is the
most popular memory module. DDR stands for Double Data Rate, which means that
the memory can be accessed twice per clock-cycle. SDRAM, the acronym for
Synchronous Data Random Access Memory, has been the standard for memory modules
for nearly a decade.
To add memory to your
computer, you must install modules with the correct contact layout. Before
purchasing new memory, you must know which type your motherboard will accept.
The most common form factors are 168 pin, 184 pin and 200 pin.
You’ll also need to know
whether there are slots available on your motherboard. If all the slots are
already in use, you’ll have to replace 1 or all of the current modules with
higher capacity ones. If there is at least 1 free slot, you can simply buy a
new memory module and insert it in the empty slot.
A word of caution: whereas
some motherboards can accept either SDRAM or DDR SDRAM, the 2 types cannot be
mixed. You must decide on 1 or the other. Check the motherboard manual first to
determine which kind of memory your computer requires.
And finally, when you are
ready to install your brand new memory module, make sure of 2 things: the power
is off (for your safety) and you are electrically grounded (for your computer’s
safety).
Computer memory is called Random Access Memory (RAM). The information stored in RAM can be accessed randomly, rather than sequentially. This means that data can be found in any location at the same rate of speed. Other storage media, such as CD-Rom and hard drives, must wait while the drive spins to the correct location before the data can be accessed.
Computer memory is called Random Access Memory (RAM). The information stored in RAM can be accessed randomly, rather than sequentially. This means that data can be found in any location at the same rate of speed. Other storage media, such as CD-Rom and hard drives, must wait while the drive spins to the correct location before the data can be accessed.
Computer memory is simply a
storage area for the program code and the data that program uses. Computer
programs use RAM to write and retrieve information, allowing for fast data
retrieval and manipulation.
How Much RAM is
Enough?
Simply stated, the answer is,
as much as possible. Keep in mind, though, once you’ve reached a certain upper
limit, which is determined by the computer program(s) used, investment in more
memory will see a diminished return.
Adding more memory is one of
the best ways to maximize computer performance. If you compare 2 identical
computer systems, the one with the most memory will over-all be the faster.
More RAM allows the computer to place more program instructions into memory,
relying less on the slower hard drive.
Think of 512 Megabytes (MB)
as the base standard for a modern computer. With that you can multi-task (run
several applications concurrently). For instance, you can check email and
download MP3s, without noticeable sluggishness.
Some applications, however,
are more memory-hungry than others. Graphics programs, for example, are
notoriously greedy. Memory needs are further exaggerated by the operating
system used. Microsoft Windows is far more demanding than, say, Linux.
Currently, most PCs use Windows, though.
Should you notice your
computer slowing down, consider adding more
memory. Before committing to that option, however, try de-fragmenting your hard
drive with a utility (program) designed for that sole purpose. A fragmented
hard drive is a common cause of stalled computer performance.
Types of RAM
Right now DDR SDRAM is the
most popular memory module. DDR stands for Double Data Rate, which means that
the memory can be accessed twice per clock-cycle. SDRAM, the acronym for
Synchronous Data Random Access Memory, has been the standard for memory modules
for nearly a decade.
To add memory to your
computer, you must install modules with the correct contact layout. Before
purchasing new memory, you must know which type your motherboard will accept.
The most common form factors are 168 pin, 184 pin and 200 pin.
You’ll also need to know
whether there are slots available on your motherboard. If all the slots are
already in use, you’ll have to replace 1 or all of the current modules with
higher capacity ones. If there is at least 1 free slot, you can simply buy a
new memory module and insert it in the empty slot.
A word of caution: whereas
some motherboards can accept either SDRAM or DDR SDRAM, the 2 types cannot be
mixed. You must decide on 1 or the other. Check the motherboard manual first to
determine which kind of memory your computer requires.
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