Not enough memory?
This is the easiest and usually the most cost-effective upgrade. Many systems are sold with the absolute minimum of RAM (random access memory). If you don’t have enough RAM it is usually quite easy to add more. The RAM is on small cards that clip into sockets on the motherboard. (there may also be RAM mounted permanently on the motherboard, and cache memory in the CPU and on the motherboard which cannot be changed) The amount you need depends on what operating system you are running, and what you use your computer for. The official minimum RAM for:
windows XP 256 MB (not really enough, in my opinion)
windows Vista home basic 512 MB (ditto)
windows Vista 1 GB
windows 7 1 GB (2 GB for 64 bit processors)
Unix depends on version, 64 MB is typical
If you want to keep twelve tabs open in your browser, run email and instant messaging and edit photos, all at the same time, you will need lots of RAM. If you run games the game’s own documents should indicate the minimum spec for that game.
For 32 bit processors the maximum memory is 4 GB less a certain amount reserved for hardware functions and video board memory. This limit is due to the design of the processor. It is not really a Windows limit, although Unix systems can use more than 4 GB if correctly set up. (this means in practise that if you install 3 GB of RAM it can all be used but if you install 4 GB some of the memory will not be useable).
For 64 bit systems the maximum memory is usually only limited by your budget and the number of slots for memory cards.
- Find out how much memory is installed already, what type it is, and whether there any empty sockets to add more. If there are no empty slots you can replace a memory card with a larger one e.g. replace 256 MB with 1 GB.
- Older PCs may only have two memory sockets and allow only 512 MB or 1 GB per socket. Laptops may have just one memory socket. Therefore you do need to check the PC spec carefully to be sure that you are getting the correct type. All PCs now use DDR DIMM (Double Data Rate Dual In-line Memory Module) cards. There are 3 types in use. The type you need depends on the motherboard:
- DDR memory (184 pin DIMM, speed PC1600, PC2100, PC2700 or PC3200)
- DDR2 memory (240 pin DIMM, speed PC2-3200, 4200, 5300, 6400, 8000, 8500 or 9600)
- DDR3 memory (240 pin DIMM, but not interchangeable with DDR2, speed PC3-6400, 8500, 10600, 12800, or 16000)
- Once you have decided what type of memory is needed, chose the size, and also the speed. Obviously faster memory is better, but a little more expensive
- Buy a well known brand such as Crucial. RAM is not expensive and it’s not worth while buying unknown brands to save a couple of $.
- To replace RAM for a ‘tower’ PC:
- Remove the computer’s power cable. Do not just switch it off and leave the cable attached.
- Remove the side cover
- Add or replace the memory card
- Replace the cover
- Replace the power cable and any others you have disconnected. Reboot the PC.
- Check that the new RAM is working OK.
- RAM replacement for a laptop is similar in principle: Power off, remove the cover over the memory card slot, insert or replace the memory card, replace the cover and reboot.
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