The amount of RAM (random access memory) in your computer has a direct impact on its performance. The more memory installed, the faster and smoother your experience will be.
RAM acts as short-term storage for data your processor needs immediate access to. It processes this information much quicker than the hard drive does, allowing for lightning-fast processing speeds.
Speed
When a computer is in use, it stores all of its data in RAM for immediate access by the processor. This information is accessed much faster in RAM than when stored on a hard drive, which is why a slow RAM causes a computer to feel sluggish and unresponsive.
When an application is closed, the information in the RAM must be moved to a permanent storage device (such as a hard disk or SSD). The process of retrieving this data from storage is called “paging” and is very time-consuming.
A high RAM clock doesn’t necessarily translate into improved performance, but low latency does. A lower latency means the CPU can communicate with the RAM more quickly, which improves overall system performance. Often, the best way to find out how fast your RAM is running is by using a free utility like EaseUS Partition Master. This software allows you to create partitions on your hard drive and customize their size, label, and file system.
Memory Density
The amount of data that your computer processes at once is a major factor in its performance. Whether you’re playing a graphically intense game, watching a streaming movie or editing an excel spreadsheet, the more memory you have, the faster your computer will work.
During operation, your processor retrieves the programs and files you’ve opened from storage, such as an HDD or SSD, and stores them in RAM, or digital countertop, temporarily until it needs to access them again. This allows the processor to work with these materials much quicker than if it were retrieving them from a storage device like an SSD.
The higher the density of your memory, the more information it can hold in one chip. However, most systems are only compatible with a certain number of memory slots and can only accept a certain capacity per slot. Often, older systems can only use low-density chips, while newer machines support high-density modules.
Memory Types
For most PC users, the fastest way to make their computer faster is by increasing RAM. More RAM means more space for the programs and files your PC is actively working on, which helps it cut down on loading times.
Non-volatile system storage data is saved onto HDDs or SSDs, so it will still be there when your computer shuts down. But volatile RAM will lose its information when it loses power.
DRAM (dynamic random-access memory) is based around small capacitors that charge and discharge electricity to store each bit of information. That means it has to be refreshed periodically, but offers lightning-fast access speed and higher storage densities than its non-volatile counterpart.
SDRAM (synchronous dynamic RAM) is a subset of DRAM that connects to your computer’s CPU clock to keep it up-to-speed. It’s a fast and cheap option that’s used by most computers. DDR3 and DDR4 are the latest generations of this memory, allowing for more bandwidth to be processed in a single cycle.
Installation
Whether you’re building a new computer or upgrading the existing one, installing more RAM is an easy upgrade that can dramatically improve performance. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind before you start working. First, make sure you’re working in a static-safe environment. This will prevent any unwanted shocks that could damage your motherboard.
You’ll also want to make sure you’re using the right slots. Most modern motherboards have two or four slots for memory. If you’re going with a dual-channel configuration, it’s recommended that you use the slots closest to your CPU. Check your motherboard manual for detailed instructions on this.
Once you’re in the right slot, simply insert the stick and push it down until it clicks into place. Then, lock the clips in place to ensure the RAM is firmly in place. Once you’ve done that, power on your computer and run some demanding tasks to test out the new RAM.