RAM (Random Access Memory)

If you are currently shopping for computers, whether a PC or a laptop, RAM is a term that you will run across time and time again because it is the most common form of electronic memory. For those of you who have already bought a computer, you probably already know a thing or two about what you are looking for, and maybe you want information on how to install RAM. If you want a detailed description of RAM with technical specifications including bits, bandwidth, and speed, see karbosguide.com.

RAM Explained

Otherwise, for all the newbies, here is a quick summary of what RAM is, what is does and why it is important to pay attention to when buying a new computer. If you want to upgrade, keep in mind that your motherboard  (located inside the hard drive case) must have slots capable of supporting the upgraded RAM.

For those interested in buying a laptop, keep in mind that RAM is not as easily upgraded as with a PC, and sometimes it's possible without spending a ton of money. If you want to upgrade RAM for a notebook, try out credit card memory  or a PCMCIA card,  which unlike the latter are not proprietary, meaning that no matter what the brand they will work on your notebook type.

  • RAM vs. ROM
    • While ROM memory measures the amount of space you have on your hard drive, RAM  measures how much you can run on your computer at once. TechTrax explains the difference between these two types of memory referring to household furniture: a cabinet and a table. Remember: both have finite space.
      • The cabinet is used for long term storage. You put things in that will stay for awhile, and when you need them, you can take them out.
      • The table is where you can things temporarily, say to work on a project. While you work, you lay out all the things you need on the table. When you are done, all the items get put away.
  • More RAM allows you to multitask faster and smoother.
    • RAM  is what keeps the data stored on your computer. However, it is not like when you save a file or an image that you can retrieve after turning off the computer. It is actually what controls the memory of any live applications that are functioning while the computer is turned on only.
    • Have you ever noticed that when you have several programs running at once that your computer tends to "slow down?" That is the RAM trying to keep up. When you don't have enough RAM to run graphics-rich programs such as video or image editing and video games, the system lags and may even crash.
    • RAM constantly refreshes the active (live) memory on your computer so that you can work without any lag time. This type of memory that repeatedly refreshes itself is called DRAM (Dynamic RAM). It works hand in hand with your computers CPU (Central Processing Unit). SRAM (Static RAM) controls the memory cache. It is a faster type of RAM and usually costs more. The larger the SRAM cache in your computer, the more programs you can run at once without slowing down the computer.

What RAM Is Right For Me?

Is More Better?

More RAM will help improve everything from web surfing to photo and video imaging. However, depending on your computing uses, you may need more or less. Keep in mind that today's RAM happens to be getting cheaper by the day and the more RAM you have, the more possibilities you will have for expanding your system in the future. If you can afford to up the RAM, by all means, you should. On the other hand, if you don't plan on installing any new hardware or software, don't overly exceed your limits. Having too much RAM which is unsupported by your memory cache may actually slow your computer down. If you would like to learn how to determine your RAM needs by using the system monitor, see this article at Epinions.

Determine Your Computing Profile

  • Basic/Administrative User:  You stick to basic word processing, spreadsheet, and graphics applications, faxing, web surfing, and emailing. Usually you keep one or two programs open at once. You need: 384MB
  • Students and Executives:  Along with the above mentioned applications, you may also use imaging, illustration, or presentation software, as well as basic games and photo editing. You run a maximum of three applications at one time. You need: 512MB
  • Professionals and Gamers:  You use multimedia software, photo editing, and all of the above. You may also use CAD or CAM software. For gaming as well as other graphic-intense applications you will need: 1GB.
  • Graphic Designers:  For heavy-duty graphic work, 3D CAD, and modeling software, along with all of the above, you need: 2GB or more.

Choose According to Specific Application and Operating System Requirements

Most applications and operating systems give a "recommended" RAM requirement. Double that number and choose that amount of RAM. Here are some popular programs and the adjusted recommendation.

RAM Types

Here are just a few types of RAM available. Depending on your system, you will need one type or another. To determine which type is the right one for your computer model and manufacturer, follow the simple steps of the Crucial Memory Advisor at Crucial.com.

  • DIMM (Dual in-line Memory)
  • RIMM (Rambus in-line Memory Module)
  • SIMM (Single in-line Memory)
  • RDRAM (Rambus Dynamic RAM)
  • VRAM (Video RAM)
  • SDRAM  (Synchronous Dynamic RAM)- Most typical modern day RAM, allows for higher bandwidth storage of working data for PCs
    • DDR  (Double Data Rate)
    • DDR2 - Allows data transfer at twice the data rate of DDR
    • DDR3 - Allows data transfer at twice the data rate of DDR2, has a maximum memory module size of 16 gigabytes 
    • DDR4  is currently being designed and is anticipated to be released in 2012.

Notebook RAM

A lot of notebooks have an easily accessible RAM card and another empty slot for addition modules.  These memory cards are a great way to get maximum performance out of your laptop.

Corsair PC2-5300 1GB Value Select SODIMM Memory 

This is a great value buy for somebody looking to update their two or three year old laptop.

OCZ PC2-6400 DDR2 SODIMM 2GB Memory 

These performance memory modules are built to handle the powerful processors and other high-end components of enthusiast and professional notebooks.

CORSAIR 2GB PC2-6400 DDR2 SODIMM Memory 

The Corsair ValueSelect SODIMMs are optimized for the Microsoft Windows Vista operating system. Superior hardware design to reduce heat generation and a lifetime warranty to boot.

CORSAIR 4GB PC2-5300 DDR2-667 SODIMM Memory 

Allows today's notebooks to perform at full capacity with minimal bottleneck and heat generation. This unit has a lifetime warranty as well.

Desktop RAM

One of the main benefits of owning a desktop computer is the ease at which you can upgrade components like RAM cards.  Depending on how many RAM slots you have, you can add several modules to make a dramatic increase in performance.

CORSAIR XMS2 4GB PC2-6400 DDR2-800 Memory Kit 

This two piece kit gives your PC the speed it needs to run today's modern games without breaking your bank. You get 4GB of memory for around $60.

OCZ 6GB PC3-12800 Triple Channel DDR3 Memory 

Designed specifically for the impending Intel Core i7 processor / Intel X58 Express Chipset. Optimized for the Core i7’s triple channel mode, the 6GB kits ensure optimal performance via an ideal combination of low voltage requirements, speed, and latency.

Corsair 2GB Kit DDR400 XMS3200 Memory 

Corsair's new XPERT series is the world's first line of memory modules that monitor parametric data of the memory real-time. Each chip has a micro-controller to measure voltage, temperature, and frequency on the memory module.

CORSAIR 6GB PC3-12800 DDR3-1600+ CLTriple Channel Memory 

This set of 3 2GB modules has been tested to perform best on the Intel X58 motherboard. This kit packs a wallop for around $140.

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