Whether you’re typing a text document, saving a file, or playing a video game, RAM is what makes the process happen. It is the temporary storage component of your computer or laptop.
Data is stored in RAM as a series of on’s and off’s called bits. Each bit represents a piece of information such as a number or a simple colour.
Speed
When you want to open a file or play a game, the computer must pull data from RAM. If the speed is low, it can take longer than necessary to see results. Faster speeds help your CPU run at maximum efficiency, which can lead to faster performance overall.
Unlike long-term storage, the data stored in RAM is lost when the computer shuts down. If the computer is running a demanding program and doesn’t have enough available RAM, it will begin to use the slower hard drive as virtual memory, which can cause serious slowdowns in your system.
The speed of pc ram is measured in clock cycles, or the number of times the data can be read and written per second. The best pc ram will be rated at a higher speed, though the exact numbers vary from model to model. Many motherboards feature XMP, which automatically configures the RAM to the fastest mode supported by the CPU. Manual tweaking can improve the performance of a RAM kit, but it is often easier to leave this work to an expert.
Capacity
Increasing your computer’s RAM capacity increases how many programs it can run at once without slowing down. It also decreases your reliance on the operating system’s virtual memory, which uses a slower hard disk for data storage.
Whenever you open a program, the software needs quick access to the information stored in its memory. If there’s not enough RAM, the operating system has to move data between RAM and the hard drive, which causes everything to slow down.
For everyday computing, 2-4 GB is sufficient to handle single applications. 6-8 GB is ideal for web browsing, emailing and working with Microsoft Office programs. For more demanding tasks like video editing and playing games, you’ll need at least 16 GB. To determine how much RAM your computer can support, check the motherboard’s documentation or its manufacturer’s website. You can also download the free hardinfo software to get detailed system information. Make sure you’re installing RAM in pairs for dual-channel performance.
Types
Data for computer use is encoded into a binary format of 0’s and 1’s, known as bits. Each bit represents one piece of information, such as a number or a colour. There are many ways to store bits, and each has its advantages and disadvantages.
The type of RAM you use can also influence the performance of your system. Dynamic RAM (DRAM) is the memory used in most modern computers, and it uses transistors and capacitors to hold electronic charges. However, these can leak, and so DRAM needs to be refreshed periodically to retain its data.
Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM) was introduced in the 1990s, and it synchronized with the clock speed of the CPU to allow for faster processing. It also uses less power than DRAM. There are also a range of physical form factors for RAM, with DIMM sticks designed for desktop motherboards and SO-DIMMs for laptops and Mini-ITX small-form factor motherboards. The CAS latency of the RAM is another important consideration, with lower numbers indicating faster response times.
Installation
Adding or upgrading RAM is one of the easiest ways to improve your computer’s performance. Whether you’re building a new PC or simply making an upgrade, this simple step can greatly increase your computer’s speed and ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
Before installing the RAM, make sure that it’s compatible with your motherboard and processor. Also, be careful not to exceed the maximum amount of memory that your system can handle; doing so can lead to poor performance.
Finally, when installing the RAM, it’s important to align it correctly. The bottom connectors of the module must match those on the slot, and the module should be inserted at an angle with a slight bend in the middle. This helps prevent heat buildup.
Before beginning the installation process, shut down your computer and unplug all cords and cables. Touch an unpainted metal surface to ground yourself, and open up the laptop’s casing or remove the RAM access panel to reveal the slots.