Upgrading system memory is one of the least expensive ways to increase performance!

What is memory & how does it work?

Memory is the commonly used term for RAM (Random Access Memory). Unlike a hard drive, which is permanent storage for your data, memory temporarily stores data that is created by computer applications/files while they are still in use. Once the application/file is closed, the temporary data is removed, creating space for new data. The more memory you have, the more temporary data storage space you have, therefore, your computer can access more files and applications at the same time. Another way of looking at is, adding more memory to a computer system increases its performance by increasing the applications response time.

How much memory do I need?

The amount of memory you need depends on what you are doing and what operating system you are using. Running basic applications like word processing software and email does not require a lot of extra memory. Working with graphic intensive software on the other hand will exhaust your available memory and will perform at optimal levels only with the maximum amount of memory.

It is important to note that your operating system will require a minimum amount of memory for basic operation. For example, Vista requires for basic operation 512MB memory (Basic Version) and 1GB memory (Premium/Basic/Ultimate Versions).

Entry: Email,Picture sharing, Web browsing, Basic office software
Mainstream: Email, picture sharing, web browsing, basic office software, basic creative software
Performance: Download and manage photos, music, movies and TV, photo enhancement, web hosting, gaming, full suite office software
High-End: Similar to performance but at a professional level.

* Vista specifications from Microsoft: 32-bit Vista versions only support up to 4GB of memory; 64-bit Home Basic supports up to 8GB of memory, and 64-bit Home Premium supports up to 16GB of memory. Please note: Maximum system memory is also dependent upon the total number of memory sockets and the maximum memory module capacity (using 2GB modules, 4-socket desktops will support up to 8GB of memory and 2-socket notebooks will support up to 4GB of memory).

+ Windows XP 32-bit (Home, Professional and Media Center) versions only support up to 4GB of memory; Windows XP Professional 64-bit supports up to 16GB of memory. Please note: Maximum system memory is also dependent upon the total number of memory sockets and the maximum system RAM capacity.