what is RAM?

INTRODUCTION

Random Access Memory (RAM) is the hardware in a computing device where the operating system (os), application programs and data in current use are kept so they can be quickly reached by the device's processor. RAM is the main memory in a computer, and it is much faster to read from and write to than other kinds of storage, such as a hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD) or optical drive.

Random Access Memory is volatile. That means data is retained in RAM as long as the computer is on, but it is lost when the computer is turned off. When the computer is rebooted, the OS and other files are reloaded into RAM, usually from an HDD or SSD.

RAM Speed

Type of RAM	PC Rating	RAM Speed in MHz	Peak Throughput in MB/sec
SDRAM	PC100	100	800
SDRAM	PC133	133	1100
RIMM	PC800	400	1600
RIMM	PC1066	533	2100
DDR	PC1600	200	1600
DDR	PC2100	266	2100
DDR	PC2700	366	2700
DDR	PC3200	400	3200
Dual Channel RIMM	PC800	400	3200
Dual Channel RIMM	PC1066	533	4200
Dual Channel DDR2	PC2-3200	400	6400
Dual Channel DDR2	PC2-4200	533	8400
Dual Channel DDR2	PC2-5300	667	10600
Dual Channel DDR2	PC2-6400	800	12800

How much RAM do you need?

"640K should be enough for anybody." - Bill Gates 1981

Ironic that this quote should come from the founder of Microsoft - the company whose Windows operating system goes through computer resources like kids go through birthday cake.

Older operating systems required a lot less RAM then moden system. Modern operating systems, and their hardware, require quite a bit more to properly operate. As a standard, most computers these days should have a minimum of 4 GB (Gigabytes) in order to properly run. In my opinion, though, the sweet spot is 8GB, which should allow you to run most applications and games in Windows.

For those who are doing heavy video editing, graphics design, hard core gaming, or just like to have a lot of programs running, you cannot go wrong with 16GB.

Anything past 16 GB may not provide much of a speed benefit other than being able to run more programs at the same.

Install the New RAM

1.     Turn off the computer using the Windows shut-down process.

Keep in mind that you lose stored data if you use Sleep or Hibernation mode.

 2.    Unplug the AC adapter cable that runs to the laptop.

Why remove the AC adapter and the battery before installing memory modules? First of all, plugging them in while power is on could result in damage to the RAM. Secondly, doing any work on a laptop while power is applied could result in a damaging spark.

3         Unplug the AC adapter cable that runs to the laptop.

Why remove the AC adapter and the battery before installing memory modules? First of all, plugging them in while power is on could result in damage to the RAM. Secondly, doing any work on a laptop while power is applied could result in a damaging spark.         

   4     Disconnect any other cabling to the laptop, including an Ethernet                  cable  or a telephone modem wire.

If the laptop has been running recently, allow it to cool for about 15 minutes; memory modules can become quite hot when they are in use.

     5.    Locate a small Phillips-head screwdriver.

This is the screwdriver with an X-shaped head.

1.     6. Place a soft cloth or other protective mat on a desktop.
2.   7.  Turn the laptop over so that its bottom is facing up.
3.   8.  Locate the memory module slot cover.

1. 9. Carefully remove the screw that holds the cover over the memory             compartment.
   Hold the screwdriver at a right angle to the bottom of the laptop and turn the screw carefully; it shouldn’t require a lot of force to remove. Once the screw is removed, put it in a safe place. Use a piece of clear tape to attach it to the desktop or the side of the computer.
2. 10. Ground yourself before touching the memory module.
   Touch any grounded metal surface, like a light stand, or touch the center screw on an electrical outlet.
3. 11. Carefully remove a new memory module from its packaging.
   Avoid touching the connectors; doing so can reduce conductivity because of oils on your finger.
4. 12.  Locate an empty module slot.
5. 1. If two sockets are in the compartment and the top one is filled and the bottom is empty, remove the top module first.
   2. 13.  Pick up the memory module by its sides and aim its connectors             toward the socket.
      Be sure to align the notch in the connector with the matching key in the socket. See the figure below.
   3. 14.  Slide the module into place.
   4. 1. 15. Once the module is fully inserted into the socket, press down on the top edge of the device to latch it into place.
         This way it’s flat to the laptop’s bottom. The carrier should snap into place with latches. See the following figure.
      2. 16. Replace the memory compartment cover and lock it down with              the  screw.
      3. 1. 1. Reinstall the main battery.
         2. 2. Turn the laptop right side up.
         3. 3. Reattach the AC adapter cable and other connections.
         4. 4. Restart the computer.