A lot of computer users often wonder what RAM is. To help our readers understand RAM in detail, we have prepared material in which we will look in detail at where it is can be used and what are his types are now in use. We will also look at a little theory, after which you will understand what modern memory is.

A little theory

The abbreviation RAM stands for - random access memory. Essentially, it is the RAM that is primarily used in your computers. The operating principle of any type of RAM is based on storing information in special electronic cells. Each cell is 1 byte in size, meaning it can store eight bits of information. Each electronic cell has a special address. This address is needed so that you can access a specific electronic cell, read and write its contents.

Also, reading and writing to an electronic cell must be carried out at any time. In the English version, RAM is RAM. If we decipher the abbreviation RAM(Random Access Memory) - random access memory, then it becomes clear why the cell is read and written at any time.

Information is stored and rewritten in electronic cells only when your PC works, after turning it off, all information that is in RAM is erased. The totality of electronic cells in a modern RAM can reach a volume from 1 GB to 32 GB. The types of RAM currently in use are called DRAM And SRAM.

  • First, DRAM is dynamic RAM, which consists of capacitors And transistors. The storage of information in DRAM is determined by the presence or absence of charge on the capacitor (1 bit of information), which is formed on the semiconductor crystal. To store information, this type of memory requires regeneration. Therefore this slow and cheap memory.
  • Second, SRAM is Static RAM. The principle of cell access in SRAM is based on a static flip-flop, which includes several transistors. SRAM is an expensive memory, so it is used mainly in microcontrollers and integrated circuits, in which the memory capacity is small. This fast memory, not requiring regeneration.

Classification and types of SDRAM in modern computers

The most common type of DRAM memory is synchronous memory SDRAM. The first subtype of SDRAM is DDR SDRAM. Operational modules DDR memory SDRAM appeared in the late 1990s. At that time, computers based on Pentium processes were popular. The image below shows a 512 MB DDR PC-3200 SODIMM stick from GOODRAM.

Console SODIMM means that the memory is intended for laptop. In 2003, DDR SDRAM was replaced by DDR2 SDRAM. This memory was used in modern computers of that time until 2010, until it was replaced by the next generation of memory. The image below shows a 2 GB DDR2 PC2-6400 stick from GOODRAM. Each generation of memory demonstrates increasingly faster data exchange speeds.

The DDR2 SDRAM format was replaced in 2007 by an even faster DDR3 SDRAM. This format remains the most popular to this day, although a new format is breathing behind it. The DDR3 SDRAM format is now used not only in modern computers, but also in smartphones, Tablet PCs And budget video cards. DDR3 SDRAM is also used in game consoles Xbox One eighth generation from Microsoft. This set-top box uses 8 gigabytes of DDR3 SDRAM format RAM. The image below shows a 4 GB DDR3 PC3-10600 memory from GOODRAM.

In the near future, the DDR3 SDRAM memory type will be replaced by a new type DDR4 SDRAM. After which DDR3 SDRAM will face the fate of previous generations. Mass release memory DDR4 SDRAM started in the second quarter of 2014, and it is already used on motherboards with a CPU socket Socket 1151. The image below shows the format bar DDR4 PC4-17000 4 gigabytes from GOODRAM.

DDR4 SDRAM bandwidth can reach 25,600 Mb/s.

How to determine the type of RAM in a computer

You can very easily determine the type of RAM that is in a laptop or desktop computer using the utility CPU-Z. This utility is absolutely free. Download CPU-Z available from its official website www.cpuid.com. After downloading and installing, open the utility and go to the " SPD" The image below shows the utility window with open tab « SPD».

In this window you can see that the computer on which the utility is open has RAM type DDR3 PC3-12800 4 gigabytes from Kingston. In the same way, you can determine the type of memory and its properties on any computer. For example, below is a window CPU-Z with RAM DDR2 PC2-5300 512 GB from Samsung.

And in this window there is a window CPU-Z with RAM DDR4 PC4-21300 4 GB from ADATA Technology.

This verification method is simply irreplaceable in a situation where you need to check for compatibility the memory you are planning to purchase for RAM expansion your PC.

Selecting RAM for a new system unit

To select RAM for a specific computer configuration, we will describe below an example that shows how easy it is to select RAM for any PC configuration. For example, we'll take this latest configuration based on an Intel processor:

  • CPU - Intel Core i7-6700K;
  • Motherboard- ASRock H110M-HDS on Intel H110 chipset;
  • Video card- GIGABYTE GeForce GTX 980 Ti 6 GB GDDR5;
  • SSD- Kingston SSDNow KC400 1000 GB;
  • power unit- Chieftec A-135 APS-1000C with a power of 1000 W.

To select RAM for this configuration, you need to go to the official page of the ASRock H110M-HDS motherboard - www.asrock.com/mb/Intel/H110M-HDS.

On the page you can find the line “ Supports DDR4 2133”, which states that a RAM with a frequency of 2133 MHz is suitable for the motherboard. Now let's go to the menu item " Specifications" on this page.

In the page that opens you can find the line “ Max. capacity of system memory: 32GB", which states that our motherboard supports up to 32 gigabytes of RAM. From the data we received on the motherboard page, we can conclude that for our system, an acceptable option would be this type of RAM - two DDR4-2133 16 GB PC4-17000 memory modules.

We specifically indicated two 16 GB memory modules, and not one 32 GB, because two modules can operate in dual-channel mode.

You can install the above modules from any manufacturer, but these RAM modules are best suited. They are presented on official page to the motherboard in paragraph " Memory Support List", since their compatibility has been verified by the manufacturer.

The example shows how easily you can find out information about the system unit in question. In the same way, RAM is selected for all other computer configurations. I would also like to note that using the configuration discussed above, you can run All latest games with the highest graphics settings.

For example, on this configuration new games such as Tom Clancy's The Division, Far Cry Primal, Fallout 4 and many others, since such a system meets all the realities of the gaming market. The only limitation for this configuration is that it price. The approximate price of such a system unit without a monitor, including two memory modules, a case and the components described above, will be about 2000 dollars.

Classification and types of SDRAM in video cards

New video cards and older models use the same type of synchronous SDRAM memory. In new and outdated video card models, this type of video memory is most often used:

  • GDDR2 SDRAM - bandwidth up to 9.6 GB/s;
  • GDDR3 SDRAM - bandwidth up to 156.6 GB/s;
  • GDDR5 SDRAM - bandwidth up to 370 GB/s.

To find out the type of your video card, the amount of RAM and memory type, you need to use a free utility GPU-Z. For example, the image below shows the program window GPU-Z, which describes the characteristics of the video card GeForce GTX 980 Ti.

GDDR5 SDRAM, which is popular today, will be replaced in the near future by GDDR5X SDRAM. This new classification of video memory promises to increase bandwidth up to 512 GB/s. The answer to the question of what manufacturers want to achieve from such a large throughput is quite simple. With the advent of formats such as 4K and 8K, as well as VR devices, the performance of current video cards is no longer sufficient.

Difference between RAM and ROM

ROM stands for read only memory. Unlike RAM, ROM is used to record information that will be stored there permanently. For example, ROM is used in the following devices:

  • Cell phones;
  • Smartphones;
  • Microcontrollers;
  • BIOS ROM;
  • Various consumer electronic devices.

In all the devices described above, the code for their operation is stored in ROM. ROM is non-volatile memory, therefore, after turning off these devices, all information will be stored in it - which means this is the main difference between ROM and RAM.

Let's sum it up

In this article, we briefly learned all the details, both in theory and in practice, regarding random access memory and their classifications, and also looked at the difference between RAM and ROM.

Also, our material will be especially useful to those PC users who want to find out their type of RAM installed in the computer, or find out which RAM must be applied to different configurations.

We hope our material will be interesting for our readers and will allow them to solve many problems related to RAM.

Video on the topic

If your computer has become slower, additional RAM may be a solution to this problem. In this case, you need to understand what RAM is and why it is needed, find out its parameters, and also familiarize yourself with the recommendations for installing and replacing this module.

What is RAM?

RAM stands for Random Access Memory. It is also called:

  1. RAM (Random Access Memory);
  2. random access memory;
  3. or just RAM.

RAM is a computer's volatile memory that has random access. While the computer is running, this is where all the intermediate, input and output data that the processor processes is stored. All data located on RAM can be accessed and saved only when power is connected to the device. Even during a short power outage, information can be distorted or completely destroyed.

Data exchange occurs between Random Access Memory and the processor:

  • directly;
  • through registers in the ALU;
  • via cache.

OP is:


RAM usage

Operating systems use RAM to process information and store frequently used data. If modern devices did not have Random Access Memory, then all operations would be much slower, since it would take much more time to read information from a permanent memory source.

Additionally, it would be impossible to perform multi-threaded processing. Thanks to the presence of OP, all applications and programs launch and work faster. At the same time, nothing makes it difficult to process all the data that is in the queue. Some operating systems, such as Windows 7, have the ability to store files, applications and other information that the user frequently uses in memory.

This way, there is no need to waste time waiting for them to start loading from disk, since the process will begin immediately.

Typically, this will cause Random Access Memory to be more than 50% loaded at all times. This information can be viewed in the task manager. Data tends to accumulate and those applications that are used less often will be supplanted by more necessary ones.

Today, the most common is dynamic random access memory (DRAM). It is used in many devices. At the same time, it is relatively inexpensive, but it works slower than static (SRAM).

SRAM has found its application in controllers and video chips, and is also used in processor cache memory. This memory has higher speed, but it takes up a lot of space on the chip. In turn, manufacturers have decided that volume is much more important than speed, so DRAM is used in computer peripherals. In addition, dynamic memory is an order of magnitude cheaper than static memory. At the same time, it has a high density. Thanks to this, more memory cells can be placed on exactly the same silicon crystal. The only downside is that it's not like that fast work, like SRAM.

It is worth considering that all the information contained on the OP can only be accessed when the device is turned on. After the user exits the program, all data will be deleted. Therefore, before exiting the application, you must save all changes or additions that have been made.

The OP consists of several cells. This is where all the data is located. With each saved change, the last information is deleted and new information is written in its place. The number of cells depends on the volume of Random Access Memory. The larger this volume, the higher the performance of the entire system.

To find out your computer's RAM you need to run the following actions:

  • for Windows XP:
  1. hover over the “My Computer” shortcut;
  2. then you need to press the right mouse button;
  3. select “Properties”;
  4. go to the “General” tab;
  • for Windows 7:

Install

Additional OP will help significantly improve the performance of the device. It can be installed on both a desktop computer and a laptop.

Installing RAM on a computer

First you need to find out what type of OP is required. Its type depends on the motherboard. In order to find out which type is compatible with the motherboard, you should check the documents for the device or visit the manufacturer’s website. When choosing RAM, it is recommended to purchase 2 or 4 modules. Thus, if you need 8 GB of RAM, then it is better to buy 2 x 4 GB or 4 x 2 GB. It is worth paying attention to their throughput and speed. All data must be the same. Otherwise, the system will adjust to the most minimal parameters. This may result in poor performance.

To install RAM, you should follow these recommendations:

  1. you need to disconnect the monitor, mouse, printer and keyboard from the device;
  2. make sure that there is no static charge;
  3. remove old modules - to do this, you need to open the clamps located on both sides and remove the module;

Important! The new OP module should be held so as not to touch the microcircuits that are located on the side and bottom contacts.

  1. The RAM must be inserted so that the groove exactly coincides with the protrusion located in the connector;
  2. press on the board and fix it, while the clamps should close;
  3. build a computer;
  4. turn on the device;
  5. check for OP.

Installing RAM on a laptop

To do this you need:

  1. correctly determine the type of OP;
  2. eliminate static charge;
  3. disconnect the laptop from power and remove the battery;
  4. remove the desired panel on the bottom surface of the laptop;

Important! Most laptops do not require paired modules.


Type and volume

On this moment There are several types of OP. This:

  • DDR RAM;
  • DDR2 RAM;
  • DDR3 RAM.

They differ in the design of the bar, as well as in performance.

Important! It is worth noting that the modules are completely incompatible with each other, as they have different connectors for installation.

Most modern laptops have DDR2 or DDR3 installed. Legacy models work with DDR. The speed and performance of the computer directly depends on the amount of RAM.

Currently there are modules on the market with the following volumes:

  1. 512 MB;
  2. 1 GB;
  3. 2 GB;
  4. 4 GB;
  5. 8 GB.

Before purchasing additional modules, it is worth considering that 32-bit operating system will only be able to recognize 4 GB. Therefore, there is no need to spend money on boards with a large volume due to the fact that it will not be used anyway. But if the operating system has 64 bits, you can install 8, 16 or even 32 gigabytes of memory for it.

Video: increase RAM

Frequency and other parameters

Among the main parameters of Random Access Memory, the following should be highlighted:

  1. DDR – 2.2 Volt;
  2. DDR2 – 1.8 Volts;
  3. DDR3 – 1.65 Volts.
  • module manufacturer. Preference should be given to well-known brands and models that have the largest number of positive reviews. This will help eliminate the possibility of purchasing a defective part, and the warranty period will be longer.

What does RAM look like in a computer?

The computer OP is a plate consisting of several layers of textolite. It contains:

  • printed circuit board;
  • soldered memory chips;
  • There is also a special connector for connection.

Where is the RAM located? The OP is located directly on the motherboard.

There are slots for modules, usually 2 or 4 of them. They are located next to the processor.

OP for PCs and laptops

RAM, intended for a laptop, has several differences from the OP, which is used in a PC, namely:

  1. the modules differ in their sizes - the plate for a laptop is much shorter than the standard one for a computer;
  2. The bar also has unique connectors.

Thus, the module used for a PC cannot be installed in a laptop.

RAM is one of the main parts in a computer. It is responsible for the speed of launching various programs and applications, as well as for temporary storage of information. In addition, it helps to communicate with external devices and hard drive with processor.

RAM, also known as random access memory, is a key element of a computer and is responsible for speeding up various programs running on a PC or laptop. The memory itself is short-term; it is only capable of temporarily storing commands and information, and after the device is turned off, all data is erased automatically. They can only be stored while they are turned on. The volume and parameters of the RAM directly determine how well the computer will cope with its tasks.

RAM: what is it and how can you find out how much there is on your computer?

RAM acts as a memory that temporarily stores information about running utilities, system processes, and service tasks. With its help, there is a relationship between the HDD and the CPU, as well as devices connected from outside. As you know, the system processor is responsible for the execution of any program, and all software files are located on the HDD. Before a program can be executed, each of its files must be on the processor. This kind of “transfer” is carried out by RAM.

Determining the amount of RAM on your PC is not difficult. This can be done without the help of third-party utilities:


The main purpose of RAM

The main purpose of RAM is to set the pace for each system when running applications. The more capacious the RAM, the faster the tasks that users need are completed. In general, RAM affects how quickly a computer operates, ensures the uniform efficiency of system elements, and is also responsible for the device’s ability to simultaneously work on various complex projects.

What happens if there is a lack of RAM? In this case, the user will experience extremely long loading times for pages and opening folders. Even less resource-intensive programs will begin to freeze and will not work properly. All this suggests the following: an increase in the amount of RAM is required. In this case, it will be possible to eliminate the problems.

Why is RAM needed in games?

To fully enjoy games, you need a “fast” RAM. Its speed level determines the update speed, measured in megahertz. The faster and larger the RAM is, the more processes can run simultaneously, and the smoother modern games will run.

If the device does not have enough RAM to comfortable game, then all its parameters will not fit in RAM. Of course, the game will load, but its performance will leave much to be desired. The user will encounter lags, slowdowns, slow reactions - all this is the result of a lack of RAM.

Note! Afterwards, game processes will begin to be processed more quickly and efficiently, and the application itself will respond to the gamer’s commands with lightning speed.

Type and amount of RAM

RAM is available in the following types:

  • DDR. It is considered the oldest type of RAM, which was installed on PCs in the early 2000s. Such memory was installed only in budget PCs and operated with a minimum frequency of 400 megahertz;
  • DDR2. It is a more modernized version of the type described above. It can operate several times faster and handle larger volumes of data. Such brackets were installed in all computers until 2011;
  • DDR 3. RAM, thanks to which it was possible to provide an increase in computer performance by more than 10%. Such brackets were installed in PCs and laptops from 2007 to 2014 and were considered extremely popular, since they differ high level frequency of information processing;
  • DDR4. Known as the newest and most advanced type of RAM, capable of operating at frequencies of 2400 megahertz or more. This memory became available in 2014, but is still considered not very widespread due to its high price - not all users can afford it.

If we talk about the amount of RAM, it doubles in modules 1, 2, 4, 8, 16. There are no odd amounts. It is possible to install modules of different volumes, but in this case the two- and three-channel operating modes will be lost. To ensure optimal performance, it is recommended to install models in pairs of the same volume (and preferably from the same brand) - this will ensure their effective use.

Insufficient RAM - what to do?

Sometimes users see a system message about insufficient RAM - this indicates a lack of RAM, due to which applications will not be able to work properly - freezes and slowdowns will begin. Beginner users mistakenly believe that they need to free up space on the HDD, but physical and virtual memory are different things, which you definitely need to know about. There are several options to solve this problem - cleaning, overclocking and installing a larger RAM slot.

Ways to clear RAM

The simplest and most popular method is manual cleaning of RAM. To do this, you need to perform a number of actions:


There is another way that involves doing the following:


According to the third method, you can use the KCleaner program - it has long established itself as a powerful application for cleaning RAM, without disabling important system processes and services. For optimized work you will need:


How to overclock RAM?

The lightest and affordable way overclocking RAM, which does not imply the need to install third-party applications, is available through the BIOS.


Specifics of installing RAM

The process of connecting RAM will be discussed using a laptop as an example.

  1. Turn off the device completely and take care to unplug the power cord. If the battery is removed, it is better to remove it. After this, use a screwdriver to unscrew the screws from the cover. Memory access will now appear.

  2. If there are several slots for RAM at once and each of them is occupied, then you need to remove the strips - to do this, bend special latches on the sides.

  3. New RAM is installed in the empty slots. This must be done at an angle of approximately 45 degrees.

  4. You need to be careful when installing the modules so that the contacts are not damaged, and the modules themselves must be installed tightly enough. By pressing on the top edge, the RAM will be clamped with latches.

All that remains is to put the cover back on, turn on the laptop and check the result!

Program for testing RAM

Today the most popular program for this is called Memtest. This is what you should use for checking.


Advice! What actions should I take if errors related to RAM are detected? If due to failures it is impossible to work normally, then the most cost-effective way would be to replace the problematic module. In some situations, regular cleaning, which was described earlier, also helps. The most common problems are caused by faulty microchips or connectors. operational board- in this case, you definitely can’t do without a specialist’s diagnosis.

The best RAM manufacturers

Today, the RAM market is home to 4 of the best manufacturers, whose products do not cause any complaints and meet user expectations:

  • Corsair. The corporation's headquarters are located in America. Compared to other RAM manufacturers, the brand also creates many other devices and elements such as headphones, mice, keyboards and cooling systems. If we talk directly about memory modules, then over its many years of history, the company’s employees have been engaged in the production of strips different types. Now there is also a modern, powerful version of DDR4 available;

  • G.Skill. This brand appeared on the world stage in 1989. The company was founded by ordinary enthusiastic developers. Now she produces minimal amount“hardware” - memory sells best. Engineers are engaged in the production of modern RAM standards, so the models are characterized by both a decent volume and high frequency. Many planks can be overclocked, which will definitely please a certain category of customers;

  • Kingston. Without exaggeration, the products of this American brand are considered the most popular. The reason for this popularity is the affordable price tag. RAM of this brand is almost always used by different laptop manufacturers;

  • Mushkin. Another American brand whose employees produce power supplies and other types computer equipment, but their RAM is in particular demand. The products are mainly intended for desktop PCs, but there are several models for laptops. The most common series is REDLINE, which supports overclocking and is therefore of interest to more experienced users.

Thus, RAM really is a key device in computers and laptops, on which the performance of the gadget and the ability to fully work with several resource-intensive programs at once directly depend. When choosing RAM, it is recommended to focus on products from popular brands - in this case, you will definitely be able to meet your expectations from the purchase.

Video - Why do you need RAM in a computer?

I decided to write an article on the topic of what computer RAM is, because I realized, judging by the questions, that many people do not understand well what it is.

What is computer RAM and what is it used for?

To begin with, I will give a definition that is similar to all the others.

RAM is a temporary computer memory that operates when the computer is turned on and is needed for the normal operation of programs and processes. As soon as you turn off the computer or reboot, the RAM is erased (or, correctly speaking, reset to zero).

I’ll explain, using the example of the usual “scratch pad”, what temporary memory means and what permanent memory means.

I'll start with the constant one. Permanent memory is the memory that stores data until the moment until you delete them. For example, you downloaded a text file from the Internet. As you should already know, any file has weight, it depends on its content (in our case, on the amount of text) on the format, etc., this is not so important now. So, you downloaded it, and you see that it exists, that is, you can move it anywhere, delete it, put it on a flash drive. That is, this file “exists” and you can “touch” it.

Now it seems a little unclear, but after the next paragraph everything will fall into place, trust me.

Now, imagine that you open Notepad and start typing text there. About what good weather or how you walked around the city today and what happened after, you came back tired. Now you have already published a whole poem about your adventures... Stop! Where is the very text that you typed for half an hour? Look at drive C or D, look in the folders. Let me stop your search because you won't find him anywhere - he doesn't exist! It's not there yet because you didn't save it. You didn't click File -> Save As, select a name, and click Save. Until you save it, it doesn’t exist! “How does it not exist?”, you ask, “I can read it, edit it, add to it...”. Yes, just like that, in fact it is not on any disk, not in any folder. “Then where is he?”, you ask. The answer is simple- just in that same RAM. She exists for similar situations. To store those files that don’t seem to exist yet, which are currently just being created. But if you suddenly restart your computer without making a save, then everything you typed will be lost because the memory will be reset. This is its nature of action.

I hope I have clarified the situation with the RAM, because it would be much more difficult to explain using other examples and processes. But believe me, this is exactly how it works. So, what is RAM needed for? We figured it out, let's move on.

RAM capacity

The amount of RAM (as it is often called) affects the number of simultaneously running programs and their normal operation.

I'll explain now. You have installed a program and it is saved on your computer, for example Microsoft Office Word. Until you start it, it is at rest and does not take up a single drop of RAM. But as soon as you launch it to type text, it immediately begins to take up a certain amount of RAM. Why? Yes, because some temporary processes also take place in it, I will not go into details so as not to confuse you, just take my word for it. These temporary processes occupy part of our “temporary” memory, and so on in every program.

If neglected a large number of“heavy” programs, then the computer begins to “freeze” and “glitch”. His work slows down noticeably. So don't overuse it. And also remember that some .

Now a little about how much memory is normal. It’s different for all systems, and it’s not about the OS version, i.e. not in Windows XP or 7. It's a matter of bit depth. If you have a 32-bit system, then it is not recommended to install more than 3 GB of RAM. Of course, you can install it, but only 3 GB will be perceived by the computer, the rest will be ignored. If you have a 64-bit system, then you can bet up to 9, as far as I know. How to find out how many bits your system has is very simple - Start -> Right-click on “Computer” -> Properties and you won’t confuse everything there (the bits are highlighted in red).

I admit honestly, I have 4 GB and it’s enough for my eyes.

How to find out the computer's RAM, or rather its volume?

The easiest way find out the amount of RAM on your computer, this is through the Computer program or My Computer if you have Windows XP. Information about the volume is located in the same place where you found out the bit capacity of your system, this is written a little higher (the amount of RAM is highlighted in blue).

With that how to check computer RAM, we figured it out quickly, so let's move on to the next question.

Now let's look at increasing the RAM.

IN Lately, many people begin to solve problems with the performance of their PC by increasing resources, and sooner or later they run into the question - how to increase the computer's RAM? Because someone once advised them that the computer was slowing down solely because of this. Perhaps these “wise advisers” are partly right, or maybe not. Therefore, let's figure out in which case it is worth increasing our memory and in which it is not.

Before you increase anything, do something:

  • If memory consumption has increased very sharply, without any special reasons(for example, installing a heavy program), then I advise you to check your computer for viruses, either with your antivirus program or
  • I also advise you to carry out a thorough cleaning of your computer; more about it in
  • Well, also take a look at startup programs. You may have programs enabled that you do not use at all; you can disable them. I wrote about how to do this.

If you have cleaned and checked everything, but the speed of your PC has not increased, then you can safely increase the amount of RAM. I'll tell you how to do it yourself.

First, as I wrote above, we look at the bit depth to find out to what size we can increase the memory size. Next, turn off the computer and DISCONNECT POWER FROM THE ELECTRICAL NETWORK. After that, we hide one of the covers and take out one of the RAM modules, it looks something like this

To remove the module you don't need to be a big genius, just look at how it is attached, disconnect the fasteners and pull it out of the connector. The fasteners look something like this:

They are like clothespins, you press them out of the module on one side and on the other, and then just drag the module towards you.

Now look how many module slots you have in total, I have four. Since I had two gigabytes of RAM, and I decided to increase it to four, I decided to buy two more gigabyte modules.

Next, I used a very insidious technique. I went to computer store, went up to the consultant and said - give me two just like this one. After the purchase, I came home and inserted all four modules into the connectors. All.

Now you know, how to add RAM in your computer if you don't have enough of it.

How to clear computer RAM?

Several ways to clean RAM:

  • Reboot your computer. Completely clears “temporary” memory. This type of cleaning can be used only when the computer begins to freeze and slow down due to the huge number of running programs.
  • Go to the Task Manager and disable those programs that you do not currently need. I talked about how to do this in.
  • Disable unnecessary programs, which start with Windows when turned on. I also talked about how to do this.

These three points are enough to understand how to clean RAM.

Also, memory is divided not only by size but also by frequency. There are three types of RAM:

  • DDR2,
  • DDR3.

Their frequencies are:

  • DDR - from 200 to 400 MHz,
  • DDR2 - from 533 to 1200 MHz,
  • DDR3 - from 800 to 2400 MHz.

Accordingly, these types of RAM They differ in operating speed, DDR3 is the fastest. The only thing you need to find out is what type of RAM is suitable for your motherboard; most often this is written on the box in which it was sold.

That's all the secrets of RAM! I hope I helped you at least a little in understanding this matter.

And what is it intended for? Almost all modern devices and gadgets are equipped with RAM (random access memory). So what does such memory give to a computer or laptop? Let's try to understand the issue.

What is this?

RAM of a laptop or PC is important detail device system on which the speed of operation depends different applications. Why do you need RAM in a computer? It stores commands and temporary data that the computer processor needs to perform certain operations. There are many, each of which performs its own task. The RAM looks like an elongated green chip. There is a compartment in the system unit or under the back cover of the laptop where it is located. Even a user who does not understand technology can install it himself.

Purpose

What does RAM (Random Access Memory) provide - volatile and relatively fast PC memory that has random access. It carries out various types of operations for exchanging information between devices. Operational If you turn off the power, the data contained in it will be erased. RAM stores streams of information that the processor needs to process. Devices contact RAM through the system bus and exchange with it through the cache. Random access RAM means that the memory accesses the desired block directly when needed.

At the same time, the access speed does not change. RAM is different from volatile RAM; it rarely fails. If it is damaged, it affects the entire system and negatively affects the operation of some PC devices. RAM comes as a separate module or block of a device or chip. If modern gadgets did not use the element in question, then all operations would be slow. What does adding RAM do? It allows you to reduce information processing time, and applications will work and launch twice as fast.

Type and volume

What does RAM do? It helps the computer run faster. To increase the capabilities of the device, you need to know and take into account the characteristics of this element. For example, if the RAM is 8 GB, this is its capacity. It is an integral element of any module in the system. The performance of a computer or laptop depends on the total amount of RAM; the more it is installed, the better for the user.

How to correctly determine how much memory is installed on a PC? This can be done different ways. If the computer has an operating system Windows system 7, then you need to do the following: click “Start”, then right-click on “Computer” - “Properties”. A window will appear containing information about the volume. There you can also see information about the processor and system type. In the same way, you can find out the amount of RAM (8 GB, 16 GB, 32 GB, etc.) in Windows XP.

If the user needs to find out information about the module and other characteristics, it is necessary to install a special program to determine PC parameters. Experts also advise using S&M - a diagnostic application about the state of your computer.

Peculiarities

Modern laptop and computer users know what RAM does. It is responsible for performance - how quickly the received command will be executed and processed by the PC. To determine the frequency of a specific module, you can simply look at the sticker where the numbers and letters are indicated, for example: DDR3 - 1600 PC3 - 12800 CL9 ECC REG.

In addition, you can use special programs, which allow you to determine the characteristics of RAM. What does this code mean?

  1. DDR3 is a generation of RAM and is the most common type.
  2. 1600 is the operating frequency of the memory, which is measured in MHz.
  3. PC3 - 12800 - a parameter indicating throughput, that is, the amount of information processed in 1 second.
  4. C19 - information about RAM timing, measured in milliseconds. The lower the number, the better.
  5. ECC - memory has parity control. The module has a special controller that corrects errors that occur during operation.

Therefore, if you want to increase RAM, then take these parameters into account, otherwise there is a high risk of incompatibility between the device and RAM.

Laptop RAM

Many modern netbooks, laptops and tablets use DDR RAM with the SODIMM form factor. The difference between these modules and others is appearance. Each generation of RAM has its own characteristics. They are related to the technological process. So, the laptop module has a different number of contacts, unlike the first generation DDR. Some laptop users may encounter an unpleasant problem: the OS slows down and works erratically. This happens if several applications are downloaded at the same time. Then you will need to clear the RAM.

What can the user do? Close all applications, restart the device. In addition, you can use programs that clear RAM. All of these methods have pros and cons. If they do not solve the problem, you should seek help from service center.

How to install?

We have found out what RAM provides, now we will tell you how to install it in a computer or laptop:

  1. First, turn off the device and wait five minutes.
  2. Opening system unit.
  3. There must be free slots on the motherboard - install RAM there. Each board has its own DDR generation.

What are the benefits of increasing RAM? The computer will work faster, but you need to increase it carefully. First, find out what motherboard is installed on your device, also focus on the model and brand of the laptop. All this will make it clear how much RAM to add and whether it needs to be done. To increase memory, you must do the following:

  • determine the model of the motherboard or laptop;
  • decide on the amount of RAM and module;
  • check compatibility with motherboard;
  • purchase a module.

Installing memory is easy. To do this you need to know general outline, what a PC or laptop consists of, the functionality of all its parts.