If a computer had short-term memory, Random Access Memory (RAM) would be it. Because it is one of the most important components of any computer system, you can never have enough RAM. Every time an application is opened, it is stored in the RAM of a computer. If a computer runs out of RAM it has to store the application onto the hard drive, which is many times slower.
RAM is complicated because it needs to be compatible with the other components of your computer, specifically the motherboard. Besides getting a compatible RAM module, there are other various options to consider.
Important : When buying RAM, you will generally buy it in sticks of two. It is always recommended that the pair of RAM has identical specifications and from the same manufacturer.
Type
Size
Speed
Manufacturer
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Type
The type of your RAM module is the most important aspect because it is what determines compatibility with your system. If you get the type wrong then it won't be compatible. If you are buying a new computer this is not a concern, however if you are upgrading a new computer or building a computer you will need to consult your motherboard manual (or manufacturer) to make sure you get the correct type.Size
Modern RAM types come in three flavors: DDR, DDR2, and DDR3. Most common now are DDR2 and DDR3 but if you're looking to upgrade a computer that's 5 to10 years old you will probably need to find DDR.
Based on the speed of the RAM, the type will be followed by a number describing the speed of the type, DDR3-800, DDR2-400 and DDR-200. The number describes the data transfers per second in hundreds of millions.
Bottom Line - When buying a RAM you are limited to your motherboard, for older computers you may be stuck with slower RAM but the price difference is minimal. I would not suggest upgrading a computer's motherboard inorder to use faster RAM.
The size of a RAM module represents the number of megabytes or gigabytes available for storage. The more storage space you have in terms of RAM the better your computer will perform. Unlike RAM speed you can have multiple sizes of RAM as long as long as they are paired. For example a computer might have 2 x 512MB DDR2-400 and 2 x 1GB DDR2-400 RAM modules for a total of 3 gigabytes of RAM.Speed
Bottom Line - Once can never have too much RAM, if you open applications and start to hear your hard drive thrash you need more RAM. Reasonable minimums are 1GB for Windows XP, 2GB for Vista, 1GB for Windows 7.
Note : I'm sure a lot of people will read the above section and say that those minimums are way to low. This is based on the assumption that you're not doing anything memory intensive like computer games, graphic editing, video editing or browsing with upwards of 30 tabs open in your web browser. I can personally contest that those minimums are suitable for normal everyday computer use.
RAM speed represents how fast RAM can transfer the data that is stored in its memory and the CPU. This number is identifiable, as mentioned earlier as part of the RAM module name. This is a listing of modern RAM and their speeds. Speed is controlled by the memory clock which might be part of the description as MHz. An example name might be DDR-200 100Mhz. Each type of RAM has a variety of speeds to choose from: the faster the RAM the greater the performance.Manufacturer
Important : When purchasing multiple sticks of RAM (they generally come in pairs), all RAM modules installed into a computer must be the same speed.
Bottom line - Purchasing the fastest possible RAM is always a good idea as long as it does not break the bank. If given the option don't skimp on the memory clock and always purchase the fastest possible.
Unfortunately memory comes in a variety of types,speeds, sizes and is made by various manufacturers. Cheap computers are generally built with budget, generic RAM modules. These are cheap and prone to errors. Always try and purchase name brand memory modules. It is tempting to purchase 'value ram' but it is not worth the headache.
Some examples of good manufactures : Samsung and Kingston
Bottom Line - Avoid no name generic value RAM. Always ask whoever you are purchasing a computer from about the RAM manufacturer because this is an easy way for them to save a few dollars without the customer being the wiser.
Who am I to be telling you what to buy with your hard earned money? Check out the about page to decide for yourself.
Bottom Line - Check it out. I even talk about my own computer buying experience!
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