Computer Performance: Memory (RAM) Upgrades

In a previous article that I published: Steps to buying a new computer, I expressed the importance of the amount of RAM installed inside of your computer. Random Access memory is considered the "thinking" side of your pc or laptop, which allows multiple programs to be opened without delay or hesitation, ensuring quick performance and speed when you need it most.

If you've noticed slacking performance and long loading times when powering up your computer, chances are that the programs you are using, are taking the majority of your computers available RAM. This very valuable piece of hardware can be upgraded, and for a lot less money than you might think.

My current desktop computer is a Gateway GT5238E. It is not a super machine, nor is it a bottom dweller when it comes to performance. The system came with a 250GB hard drive, 1GB of RAM, Windows Vista Home Premium and Media Center. The issue with my system was the amount of RAM installed, because Windows Vista has a minimum requirement of 1GB of RAM. So you see, Vista was already consuming the majority of my computer's ability to perform other tasks, making it difficult to have several programs opened at one time. With my Norton Antivirus constantly monitoring incoming and outgoing traffic over the internet, my programs seemed to take about forty-five seconds or longer to open. These programs are everyday programs like Microsoft Word 2007, Windows Media Player and also my photo editing program, Adobe Photoshop.

After researching some available upgrades that were much cheaper than buying a new desktop computer, I made a decision to go ahead and purchase some RAM to help my computer multitask. I absolutely dislike waiting an extra minute or two to start a new writing project, even if that sounds greedy or completely asinine.

I searched high and low for dependable memory sticks that came with a fairly cheap price tag from a reputable company and I found a site that I recommend to anyone looking to upgrade their PC. Once I found www.crucial.com, I was surprised by the declining prices in memory and the company's guarantee policy. So much surprised, I ordered two sticks of memory for each one of computers, my Gateway desktop and my Toshiba laptop.

Crucial's website is very user friendly, and even directs you to the exact memory that is needed by your specific system. There are two different ways to get the information you need for an upgrade. The first is clicking the "Scan my System" button, which literally scans your system and identifies what you currently have inside your computer after a quick download of the tool. The second is manually choosing your computer's manufacturer, product line and model number. Both options are very helpful for beginners or professionals, simply because finding the right memory no longer has to take extensive research.

After choosing option one or two, you'll be directed to a page that displays the recommended memory for your particular desktop or laptop. You will also find some pretty neat information regarding your setup, like how much RAM can be installed into your system and some other Q and A's about your certain model. One special thing to note is the two or three choices you'll immediately see at the top of the page after scanning or selecting your model. These are the packages that will even save you some more cash because of the packaged price. The items displayed at the top are also guaranteed to be compatible.

Some still might not understand how RAM works or how much is needed to efficiently multitask, but pay attention to this little secret. If you are currently running Windows Vista, right click the "computer" icon on your desktop and left click on "properties" or go to control panel-System and Maintenance-view amount of RAM and processor speed. This screen will show which version of Windows Vista is installed, along with the amount of memory (RAM). Directly under the memory, you will find the description of a 32 bit or 64 bit operating system.

- If your computer indicates 32 bit, your computer will only utilize 3.5GB of memory (RAM) no matter the amount of RAM installed. Purchasing 4GB would be just perfect for your system.

- If your computer indicates 64 bit, your computer will recognize more than 3.5GB memory. Purchasing more than 4GB will turn your computer into a multitasking powerhouse.

If you're looking for a reputable company with a very supportive customer service program, Crucial should be your top choice for memory upgrades. I placed an order for my Gateway desktop and my Toshiba laptop and the package arrived at my door just two days later. The memory swap took about 10 minutes for both systems, and this was my first internal upgrade. That's right, a first time customer performing a first time memory upgrade on two different computers in less than ten minutes! Oh and the difference you ask? My computers turn on and finish the start up process in about 30 seconds. The multitasking is also much more efficient than I thought, as I can effortlessly work inside as many programs as I desire. My order came to about $100 with shipping and I can't believe the simplicity of actually installing the new memory. Read my next article about Computer Upgrades for some insight to the simple process that enables you to save $100-$200 by completing the task at home.