Computer Memory – What is RAM?

September 10th, 2009

When you see a computer, you often just see the monitor and the keyboard and the CPU. But what you need to also know is that what is essential to run the computer well is the computer memory. This is not only an integral part of the computer but also vital to ensure that applications run successfully and effectively on the PC. This is all the more important for people who use the computer for various multi tasking functions as well as complex programs that could be memory guzzlers. This is why you would need to know about what RAM is all about and how it is essential for effective running of your computer.

The RAM can be compared to the memory component of the human brain. In the human brain, your memory helps in demarcating where the data is all stored and also how to retrieve it effectively such that data processing and usage may be possible. In the computer, this function is performed by the RAM, which helps to store files, programs and other data temporarily so that it can get processed by the computer’s central processing unit before it gets displayed on the computer screen and can be used. This is why if the RAM or computer memory is large, a large number of files, cookies as well as databases can be accessed and used at the same time which helps in multitasking which a large number of people are wont to prefer. This memory is stored in circuit boards which consists of a number of RAM chips.

The RAM is able to store files that are used at a point in time so that when files are repeatedly opened on the computer, they seem to get piled on one over the other almost like pancakes on a plate. This is why if the RAM is less, the computer is not able to withstand so many files and ends up crashing or being unable to function effectively. The main advantage of RAM is the ability to pile up so many files as and when applications are opened and to retrieve this data from the hard disk of the computer so that data processing can be done. Between the input of data which you do through mouse clicks or keyboard taps, and the output on the screen, the RAM comes into play and is where the computation takes place.

Tips to Know While Buying RAM

August 20th, 2009

Computer memory is central to the effective functioning of the computer. You ma have the best hardware as well as world class software, but without adequate memory it is very difficult to run your computer effectively. You may be in the midst of a presentation or perhaps at a very interesting corner in your favorite game when your computer conks off and gives up on you. This can be very aggravating as well as disappointing and all of this could be could be due to insufficient memory. This is why it is necessary to ensure that your computer is loaded up properly and also equipped with adequate memory so that you may be able to work without any interruptions.

One of the important aspects of memory is the Random Access Memory or RAM as it is popularly known as around the globe. The RAM is an indication of the amount of memory that you computer has which enables it to function properly and be able to run quite a few complicated applications and operations all at the same time. Within the computer there is the central processing unit that is able to complete all the processing functions that take place within the computer. If you want to multiply a couple of numbers, the calculation is done by the central processing unit, where the intermediate numbers in the calculation are stored in the RAM. So in essence, what is happening here is that between the input and the output, there is the access memory that is utilized in order to complete all the tasks that the computer performs. There is no wonder that if you are talking computers and planning to purchase a computer, you need to know about and make sense about the RAM.

When you are looking at buying RAM, you must be sure that you know that there are various types of RAM like DDR1 to DDR3, with DDR3 being the latest models, which are cheaper and also much more effective in functioning. You should at least have 512 MB of RAM for basic applications whereas those who work on complex graphics, animation and also games may need as much as 8 GB of RAM for effective working. This is why you should be aware of your level of usage of the memory of the computer and to what extent you are going to use up the RAM that you have. You need to remember that extra RAM does cost money and it makes no sense to have huge RAM space in the computer when your usage is low or minimal.

You also have to look at aspects like compatibility of the RAM with hardware and the motherboard as well as the motherboard slots such that there are no hassles later.

Top Reasons Why You Need to Upgrade the Memory For Your Computer

August 10th, 2009

There are many folks who face a lot of problems with their computer in terms of computer speed and performance. They may have opened up a few applications on their PC and may be stuck up just because the computer started getting slower and perhaps also got ‘hanged’ in between. This not only leads to huge inconvenience but also loss of time and effort which is such a huge bother. There are also instances when the computer may crash when games, graphics and other memory rich applications are attempted to be run on the computer. This is one of the main reasons why one has to look at going in for computer memory upgrade.

A lot of people take upgrading the memory of their computer very lightly and not seriously. This could be a big mistake and quite costly too as it could mean that the upgrade is not as effective as it should be. For instance some people are sloppy and careless about where they get the upgrade done from and how they do it, which means that the technology of the memory as well as other components may not be in sync which leads to performance issues going forward. Some of the other accessories and components like sound and graphic cards should not be upgraded in isolation as the effect of such upgrades can be limited as well as localized. There are quite a few reasons why people go in for computer memory upgrade.

For one, such an upgrade helps in increasing the availability of RAM which is essential for increasing the kind of applications you run like videos, graphics rich internet downloads as well as games. Again, the increase in memory helps in increasing the level of performance of the computer at a cost that is quite reasonable and within the reach of ordinary people.

A computer memory upgrade also helps in ensuring that you can have quite a few applications on and the same time. While you send an e-mail, you can also listen to music and have a game on also, without worrying about a computer crash. His is very useful for peoplw ho like to multi task and do quite a few things all at the same time on the computer. With the upgrade, you will also be able to load more sophisticated software programs as well as applications which would be able to function smoothly without the risk of the computer stalling midway.

Sometime when the computer boots up, if the memory is not optimized, it could cause problems and delays right from the start. If the memory is increased, the computer starts up in a jiffy and you can get going with your work.

How to Install Computer Memory RAM Quickly and Easily

July 30th, 2009

There are people who want to upgrade the memory of their computer. This thing is actually easy to install. You can do this without having a background and this is so affordable. If you purchase the correct computer memory ram, it will only take a few minutes to actually install it. Before you take off the case, make sure the computer is unplug from the socket. It is too dangerous to work with electricity. There are also electronics that can be ruined because of electric shock. A jolt can destroy computer memory ram and its components.

It is best to discharge the static before it reaches the computer. You can do this by accessing the metal in the internal casing if the computer. There are anti static strap that you can buy. It is so easy to install computer memory. There are modern ones that come with a bag. When you open this to remove the memory, it prevents you from the touching the main electronics. Oil in your hands can create shorts in the circuit. It is so easy to install the memory. It means sliding it into the slots. It is shaped accordingly so you wouldn’t install it the wrong way. You need effort to put the memory back in but don’t overdo it. Make sure to see if you are inserting it the proper way. It is best to remove old ones before installing the new one. This would pop out automatically if you know what to do.

If you put the memory in, close the case and the pc on. There are some that shows the amount of memory there is. While others, you need to verify it using properties. If this is not working, turn the computer off. Open the casing again and check the modules. Make sure that it is secured safely. If this is the case, you can also transfer it to different slots. If the computer is still not reading the memory, it must be defective. You would need to contact the store where you purchase and ask for replacement. If this is correctly installed, your computer will become faster. Slow computers are most likely due to low memory. If you upgrade the computer’s memory, it is like breathing a new life to the computer system.

Different Types of Computer Memory

July 20th, 2009

There are actually two type of storage found in the computer. This is referred to as computer memory. The Volatile memory should need to refresh in order to retain it. There is also what you call static memory which is permanent storage when it retains information even after the computer was shut down. Random Access Memory is considered as a volatile memory that can be erased when the computer is turn off. There are actually program instructions and date being help in RAM so it can be accessed and save more quickly in permanent storage. The programs, files and data being used are contained here.

The amount of ram is dependent on the operating system that you are using. This includes basic computer functions, output display in the screen, disk drive control and other devices. You can select the computer programs that you intend to run. When you actually turn on the pc, the operating system is actually loaded to the RAM. This includes utilities that are used in operations. Programs and data are load to the memory that is left. 2mb is a device that is enough for DOS programs. For windows, 4MB to 8MB is required.

Aside from the operating system that is required, applications would also play important factors. More memory is needed for real time video and heavy graphics. There are machines sold that is enough for general computer. RAM is considered practical because of memory handling, reducing access time and lower cost. For programmers, they need a higher RAM.
In buying static memory, there is a need to buy a computer with hard drive. This is the essence of the computer. You need to know how big the storage unit is. 250mb is popular however new computers today are in 500 to 1000MB.

Permanent files are not moved but rather copied. If the computer shuts down during processing, the programs are saved. The data would only be lost if you didn’t save it. For mac users, there is enough of computer memory to run it.