Make Your Computer Screaming Fast With A Ram Upgrade!
When people find out I am an I.T. Consultant, their next question is often “How can I speed up my computer?” In my book
Assuming your computer is virus and spyware free, the answer to your speed issues is a simple, inexpensive RAM upgrade. I constantly see people who have spent $1000 on a new computer and, after a few months, are disappointed in the performance. Ironically, for just a few dollars more they could have purchased enough RAM to begin with.
How much RAM is enough?
The answer depends on your operating system.
– Windows XP (Home or Pro) - I recommend a minimum of 768Megs of RAM for Windows XP, preferrably a Gigabyte, or up to 2 Gigs if you have it in your budget. More than 2 Gigs is overkill unless you are into the aforementioned CAD/CAM, video editing, Photoshop, or large database programming. If you are running 512 Megs or especially 256 Megs, you will probably be shocked at how much faster your computer will be if you add an extra 512 Megs or Gigabyte of RAM. And best of all, you’re only talking about approximatly $50 (512M) or $100 (1024M) investment, and you can install it yourself!
– Windows Vista - RAM requirements vary by version, but my opinion is, 2 Gigs minimum for Vista.
– Windows 2000 Professional - You should have at least a 256Megs to make Windows 2000 Professional hum. But honestly, if you’re running Windows 2000 (or earlier) you should probably consider a new computer.
Next question: where do you buy your upgrade? I recommend you stay away from “generic” RAM upgrades at your local electronics stores. If you pick one up at a superstore or office supply store, you’re buying a “one size fits all” component that may or may NOT be the best upgrade for your system.
A much better solution is to buy online and get a module specifically designed for your motherboard. If you visit my site, I have a link to a company that sells American-made RAM upgrades. When you visit their web page, you can download a module that will take the guesswork out of upgrading your memory. It will scan your system and present exactly the best upgrades, and with low prices and free shipping, it’s a no brainer.
Installation
Installation of RAM upgrades is very simple. Generally there are two or four slots on the motherboard of your computer. Just open up your computer and look for one or more long chips mounted in a series of parallel slots. Usually there are releases on both ends of the slot. When you insert the new chip into the empty slot, the two released should click in place. The hardest thing for a first time RAM installer is pressing hard enough to seat the module in place. Make sure you have the module lined up correctly, and then press firmly until both sides softly click.
If you buy the module online, you will receive a how-to instructional guide, and there is more detailed information available on their website. If you still have questions, you can call their tech support team and they will walk you through your upgrade.
Summary
If your computer has gotten sluggish, a RAM upgrade may be exactly what you’re looking for. This article has hopefully answered all your questions about how to buy and install the correct upgrade for your machine.
Rich Pryor has been an I.T. Consultant for nearly 20 years, and is the author of numerous articles and books, including Computer Secrets Unleashed! For tips, tricks, and a free download of “The Top 15 Computer Mistakes”, visit SelfGeek.com
Tags: Make Computer Faster, RAM, RAM Upgrade, slow computer, Speed Up Computer, Upgrade
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