RAM SIMMS
You can actually have too much memory. The amount of memory you need is contingent on your hardware configuration. Your computer can only handle a certain number of RAM (Random Access Memory) SIMMs (Single In-Line Memory Modules). As new technologies develop, memory upgrades change constantly. Your computer may not have the capabilities to utilize the newest and greatest RAM upgrades available.
RAM Memory
Check the specifications of your computer to find out how much memory you can utilize. Find out the requirements of the operating system you're using. Windows Vista recommends that the computer have 1 Gig of RAM. That represents the minimum for your computer to run smoothly with Windows Vista.
Virtual Memory
Don't be fooled by what you hear about virtual memory. Virtual memory isn't actual memory, hence the word "virtual." Virtual memory is actually hard-drive space that has been allocated as memory. Windows will grab a section of hard drive space and allow programmers to dump memory-intensive data into it. Virtual memory can help with your computer's overall daily performance, but it's not a substitute for RAM. It can be a benefit for browsers and day-to-day operations, but virtual memory has a slower access time than RAM. And your computer takes longer to retrieve the data from the hard drive then it does from RAM. So, if you're a game player, don't rely on virtual memory to be your friend.
Video Memory
If you play video games, then you want the right mixture of RAM and video memory. The game itself will list the recommended and required amounts of memory that it requires to run smoothly. For a good gaming experience, you want the recommended amount of memory. Just make sure to check the video card requirements as well. Video games utilize the memory on video cards more than the computer's memory.
Extra Memory
A little extra memory helps with Web browsing. If your operating system requires 1 Gig, go ahead and upgrade to 2 Gig of memory. This will allow you to have other applications, like Microsoft Word or Excel, running in the background. Over-purchasing memory, however, remains a waste. If your computer can't utilize the memory, then it just sits there unused.
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