Types of Laptop Memory
You probably know your computer has memory, but do you know what type it has? It's essential information to have on hand, especially if your computer starts to slow down under the weight of your vigorous multitasking. Knowing what type of memory your laptop needs is the first step toward upgrading your laptop's capacity and getting it running more smoothly.
The Facts
Most laptops use what is called SO-DIMM memory, which stands for small outline dual in-line memory module. This is a miniaturized version of the DIMM modules used in most desktop PCs.
Knowing your laptop probably uses SO-DIMM memory isn't enough, as that term only really describes the module and not the memory type itself. Additionally, different laptops will require different numbers of pins to connect memory modules to them. Check your laptop's manual before making any memory choices.
Types
There are three types of SO-DIMM memory, which build on each other's capacities.
SDRAM stands for synchronous dynamic random access memory. This type of memory syncs itself up with your computer's processor, allowing smooth access. With the advances of technology, most newer laptops no longer use SDRAM.
DDR SDRAM is SDRAM with a double data rate. This means it's twice as fast as standard SDRAM, and it's one of the two most common types of memory found in modern laptops as of August 2009.
DDR2 SDRAM is yet another upgrade to the original SDRAM concept. A big advantage of this type of memory is that it draws less power than its predecessors, thus creating less drain on your laptop.
Considerations
In addition to SO-DIMM memory, a small percentage of modern laptops may use a MICRO-DIMM card. Whether yours is one of these or not, it's important to recognize the fact that several different pin configurations exist for SO-DIMM cards. Check your computer's manual to see which configuration your laptop requires.
Your memory needs will largely be determined by how you use your laptop. General Web surfing and use of a word processing application are much less taxing on your computer's resources than hardcore gaming. Both applications will have different memory requirements.
A Note on DDR and DDR2 SDRAM
200-pin versions of both DDR and DDR2 SDRAM exist. However, they're not compatible with one another and should not be switched--no matter how tempting it might be. You won't be able to fit a 200-pin DDR2 SDRAM module into a slot meant for a 200-pin DDR SDRAM module, so check your laptop's manual and don't waste your money and time.
Warning
Regrettably, most laptops have a maximum amount of memory that they can support. Check your laptop's manual before purchasing memory to make sure you won't go over the limit of what it can accept.
Tags: your laptop, your computer, DDR2 SDRAM, SO-DIMM memory, laptop manual, type memory