Guide to buying computer memory

The RAM is a major key to a computer's performance. The speed of your computer depends on how much RAM it has to run applications. Increasing the memory of your computer is a great way to boast performance with just a few bucks. So, what exactly is computer memory/RAM? What should a computer user look for while shopping for RAM?

The memory of the computer is the RAM (Read Access Memory). The RAM is different from the hard drive (storage or disk space) or flash memory. The RAM helps determine the speed of a computer. When you save a file on your system, it gets permanently stored in the hard drive. This data in the hard drive can't be retrieved at the click of a second without a good RAM size. As a comparison, the RAM is like the machine workshop and the hard drive is like the store. Anything in your workshop is easily accessible. However, if you need something from the store, it will take some time for you to drive over and back. Many common programs such as Word and your browser use RAM to run quicker.

Simply put, the RAM offers temporary storage for data. The hard drive stores information in a fast spinning splatter. To retrieve information, the head of the hard drive reads it off the splatter. Temporary data is stored in the computer memory in the form of electrical signals. The information stored in the computer memory is easy and quick to access and is erased when you shut down your computer.

A larger RAM size will make your system work faster. Browser taps, Microsoft Word, Notepad, and other computer software programs occupy considerable amount of memory space. You may want to update your computer memory if it has a very low RAM. With a small memory size, your computer will definitely struggle to load a certain programs.

Considerations

Size

The size of your memory is probably the most important aspect of the RAM. Simply put, the bigger the better. Your motherboard will have limitations though, so make sure you don't go over these limits. I always recommend 2 GB for people buying new computers. If your motherboard can handle it, this is a good memory size to shoot for. Don't be discouraged if you can't afford this though. Any increase over your current amount of RAM will help.

Speed

The speed of your memory will be determined by your motherboard. However, many boards support multiple speeds of memory. It is suggested that you get the fastest speed that your motherboard can handle.

Latency

Latency is the time delay only after which the data can be accessed in the RAM. So the less, the better. However, their is a big price increase as latency decreases.

A computer RAM is usually located next to the CPU on the motherboard. It is important to shop for the RAM that will fit well in your motherboard. In addition, not all RAM can work well with your computer. A visit to a good memory manufacturers' website, like Kingston.com, can help you dictate the right memory for your system. Write down the list of recommended memory types for your system and search online for a good bargain. I always recommend the Crucial Memory Advisor Tool to help find the correct memory for your system. Crucial makes great memory and their memory tool makes sure you get the correct memory for your system. You can also Get 5% OFF at Crucial by following this link. Installing the RAM is very easy if you can handle a screwdriver with at least little technical 'dexterity.' You can check out our guide for installing memory if you need help with this.

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-By Dominic

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