How Much Computer Memory do I Need?

This is one of the most asked questions in the computer world. Most individuals know full well that their computer memory will have to be upgraded at some point during the service life of their computer, but have no idea how much they actually need. In reality, this depends on several different factors. The computer will be limited in terms of how much memory it can accommodate. The operating system will also have limitations in this regard. Add to this the fact that the question of how much memory is needed is largely task-dependent, and it becomes a complex query.

Computer memory requirements generally go up along with other advances in the technology. For instance, when new generations of processors are introduced to the market, there is usually a corresponding increase in the size demands of both computer memory and hard drive space. This is because the software operated by these processors will inevitably increase in power to take advantage of the new technology. This means almost constant upgrades for most computer users. This is a joy to some and an unending hassle for others. Computer memory is among the first things that are usually in need of an upgrade.

Before purchasing more computer memory, have a look at the machine into which it would be installed. If the machine is running Windows XP, for instance, the memory ceiling is 3.25GB. Installing more than this would simply constitute a waste. Make certain that one’s motherboard can handle the upgrade amount, as well. Newer operating systems tend to allow more memory to be used, but they also demand more memory simply to run. If one’s computer cannot handle more memory and the newest software requires that memory increase, it may be time to shop for a new PC.

Computer memory needs to be purchased in like amounts. One can install two RAM boards of 1GB each, for instance, but not one of 1GB and one of 2GB. Check with the manufacturer’s documentation for one’s PC to make certain what type of memory is needed. There are specifications such as SDRAM, DDR and so forth that must match the specifications of the motherboard. If the computer’s motherboard is fairly current and there are no OS issues, upgrading the memory literally takes under an hour. It’s one of the easiest computer upgrade procedures one can imagine.

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