Memory - A PC Performance Factor

 When it comes to upgrading computers, a lot of people just go to the electronics store and buy the latest and most expensive CPU set available. Although this will definitely get you cutting edge specifications, there's a simpler (and cheaper) way to upgrade your computer and boost its performance. All you have to do is jack up one of the less known factors in PC performance - memory.




Memory: Why Is It Critical?


The commonly held notion is that the processor is the determinant of your PC's performance. While this is true to a certain extent, the speed of your processor chip doesn't necessarily dictate the overall performance of your computer. The amount of random access memory (RAM) you have can have just as major a role in how well your computer does.


Imagine your processor as the main manufacturing unit in a factory. All the bits and pieces of data that need to be processed and turned into something else go through it. The RAM in your computer acts as the temporary reservoir for materials - the bits and pieces of data - that will be processed. Once the processor is done processing its current job, the next set of data to be processed is ready and available in the RAM reservoir.


When you don't have enough RAM, the reservoirs are obviously smaller and can thus hold less. That means that there's a longer waiting time in between batches of data going through the processor, and the system isn't operating at maximum efficiency. On the other hand, more RAM means that there's always a lot of readily available material waiting to be processed, so that the processor can just keep going on with few pauses.


How to Buy More RAM


It doesn't take a genius to buy and add RAM to your computer. In fact, you can readily find them on the shelf of just about any computer or electronics store. There are just a few things and specifications that you'll have to keep in mind to make sure that the upgrade goes as smoothly as possible.


There's a reason why RAM modules are often sold in matching pairs. RAM modules can operate at different latencies. You can determine the operating latency of a module by checking the number that follows the alphabetic memory standard (i.e. DDR 233 or DDR2 667). Paired modules are more efficient when their latencies matched. Unmatched modules simply operate at the lower frequency, and you miss out on some performance.


You should also be aware of the RAM standard that your computer's motherboard uses. Almost all new motherboards today use the DDR2 (also written as DDRII) standard, while many older units use DDR1 (or simply DDR). Check your motherboard's box or user manual to determine the RAM standard beforehand to save you the trouble and cost of getting an incompatible part replaced.


If you feel that your computer is already performing too slowly, consider buying more memory for it first before thinking about replacing it altogether. For most cases, a little extra RAM is sufficient to considerably improve performance and reduce loading and waiting times.


Amber Smith is an expert author who loves to write and explore on variety of topics. Keep an eye on future articles to have great and interest information by the author. Cheers!


Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Amber_S_Smith/400974




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