Volume random access memory

Next, let’s take a closer look at the next important characteristic of RAM – its volume. First, it should be noted that it most directly affects the number of simultaneously running programs, processes and applications and their uninterrupted operation. Today, the most popular modules are sticks with a capacity of: 4 GB and 8 GB ( we're talking about about the DDR3 standard).

Based on what operating system is installed, as well as for what purposes the computer is used, you should choose and select the right amount of RAM. For the most part, if the computer is used to access the World Wide Web and to work with various applications, and Windows XP is installed, then 2 GB is quite enough.

For those who like to try out a recently released game and people who work with graphics, you should install at least 4 GB. And if you plan to install Windows 7, you will need even more.

The most in a simple way To find out how much memory your system needs is to launch the Task Manager (by pressing the keyboard combination ctrl+alt+del) and launch the most resource-consuming program or application. After this, you need to analyze the information in the “Memory Allocation” - “Peak” group.

In this way, you can determine the maximum allocated volume and find out to what volume it needs to be increased so that our highest indicator fits in RAM. This will give you maximum system performance. There will be no need to increase further.

Selecting RAM

Now let's move on to the question of choosing the RAM that is most suitable for you. From the very beginning, you should determine exactly the type of RAM that your computer's motherboard supports. For modules different types There are different connectors accordingly. Therefore, to avoid damage to the motherboard or the modules themselves, the modules themselves have different sizes.

The optimal amounts of RAM were discussed above. When choosing RAM, you should focus on its bandwidth. For system performance, the most optimal option is when the module throughput matches the same characteristics of the processor.

That is, if the computer has a processor with a 1333 MHz bus, the bandwidth of which is 10600 MB/s, then to ensure the most favorable conditions for performance, you can install 2 sticks, the bandwidth of which is 5300 MB/s, and which in total will give us 10600 Mb/s

However, it should be remembered that for this mode of operation, the RAM modules must be identical in both volume and frequency. In addition, they must be manufactured by the same manufacturer. Here short list well-proven manufacturers: Samsung, OCZ, Transcend, Kingston, Corsair, Patriot.

Finally, it is worth summarizing the main points:

• Based on the definition: random access memory or RAM is a component of a computer necessary for temporary storage of data, which in turn is necessary for the processor to operate.
• After completing any operations (closing programs, applications), all associated data is deleted from the chip. And when you launch new tasks into it with hard drive the data that the processor needs is loaded into this moment time.
• The speed of access to data located in RAM is several hundred times higher than the speed of access to information located on the hard drive. This allows the processor to use the information it needs, gaining instant access to it.
• Today, the most common 2 types are: DDR3 (with a frequency from 800 to 2400 MHz) and DDR4 (from 2133 to 4266 MHz). The higher the frequency, the faster the system operates.

If you have difficulty choosing RAM, if you cannot determine what type of RAM your motherboard supports and what volume will best suit your needs, then you can always contact the service website. We are this computer help at home in Moscow and the Moscow region. Our specialists will help with selection, replacement and installation in a computer or laptop.

If you want to buy a laptop or if the available amount of RAM is not enough for you, and even using a swap file does not allow you to perform the necessary tasks, then a reasonable question arises: how to choose RAM for a laptop. Let's figure out what characteristics you should pay attention to in order to be satisfied with the performance of your laptop.

RAM - random access memory.

What module do we need?

You only have to choose a form factor, because for laptops it is the same - SO-DIMM (double-sided memory module). The remaining characteristics may raise some questions, so let’s go over the main parameters.

Memory capacity: how much in grams?

If you are going to run modern games or resource-intensive graphics applications, then you need a lot of memory to store and transfer temporary files. You can focus on the following parameters:

• A laptop for working with office applications and surfing the Internet – from 1 GB.
• An ordinary home laptop that can run games at low settings and simple graphic editors like Photoshop - from 2 GB.
• Laptop for gaming at medium settings – from 4 GB.
• A powerful multimedia laptop for modern games and resource-intensive graphic applications – from 8 GB.

If you have an old one, then installing more than 8 GB of memory is pointless - the laptop will not work faster. However, if the processor allows you to increase the memory capacity to 8 GB or higher, then be sure to install a 64-bit version on your laptop Windows version, since x32 cannot work with RAM whose volume exceeds 4 GB.

How important are frequency and other parameters?

The higher the frequency, the faster the processor will receive and process data. Therefore, try with the highest possible frequency that the motherboard and processor support. To avoid compatibility problems, choose identical modules. If you are going to install several strips, it is better to immediately purchase a Kit set, which includes 2-3 modules with the same characteristics.

• Do not buy DDR4 standard sticks - the technology has not yet been fully tested. DDR3 laptop RAM is still the best, proven and stable solution. The DDR5 standard does not exist at all - there is only GDDR5 video memory, which many mistakenly consider the fifth generation of DDR.
• Do not buy cheap modules from unknown manufacturers. They fulfill the warranty period, but after a couple of years malfunctions may appear.
• If there is support for dual-channel mode, take two smaller sticks, rather than one larger one (2 x 4 GB instead of 1 x 8 GB). This will improve productivity by about 15%.
• If there is a significant difference in price, take memory with higher timings.

Timing is the time interval during which a command sent by the RAM controller is executed. The lower the timing, the better, but it affects the speed less than the frequency. Therefore, it is better to take a bar with a high frequency and a slightly higher delay than vice versa.

We hope you have figured out how to choose RAM for a laptop. There is nothing complicated here - the main thing is not to chase numbers and brands, but to approach the choice practically and thoughtfully.

Don't forget. There are two very important purchases left for any boyar - RAM and a video card. ABOUT graphics accelerators We'll talk later, when Nvidia and its partners finally release the 20-series cards for general sale. Today we’ll look into the intricacies of choosing RAM.

As with many aspects of life, RAM isn't easy. It would seem that take more volume, and that’s all. But there are many subtleties that can spoil the purchase experience so that no tens of gigabytes will please you. So, let’s go in order, so that, on the one hand, we don’t overpay for unnecessary things, and on the other hand, we don’t end up with a glitchy computer in an attempt to save too much.

Again, we emphasize that for computer gurus this article may cause attacks of contemptuous grins and increased finger itching. That's right, because our guide is aimed at people who haven't attended university computer literacy and not every day they are faced with the problem of choosing the “most correct” timings.

Types of RAM

Have you thought that you first need to decide on the volume? Like, more gigabytes means more happiness? No, first you should find out what type of RAM you need.

The computer market, despite pessimistic forecasts, is constantly evolving, and RAM is improving along with it. From time to time, new technologies and standards appear that make it possible to increase the speed of memory and reduce its power consumption and heat dissipation. So, generation after generation, more and more new types of RAM are released.

Old DDR memory. This one is no longer produced

You can easily find out which generation a memory stick belongs to by the DDR marking (double data rate). You won't see regular DDR in desktop systems for a long time, just like DDR2. On older, but not released assemblies, DDR3 may still be found, but if we are talking about current computers with brand new “offal”, then there will be no option for DDR4. The memory of the fifth generation has been looming somewhere on the horizon for many years, but for now we can forget about it.

Thus, if we focus on new current processors and motherboards, then the choice comes down to the DDR4 memory type. By the way, even if you made a mistake and bought the wrong type of RAM, you don’t have to be afraid of ruining your computer - you simply won’t be able to install this stick in the motherboard. Each type of memory comes on a board with a special connector, which must correspond to the connector on the motherboard. Do you see that the notch on the memory chip does not coincide with the partition in the slot? Congratulations - this type of RAM is not suitable for your machine! All that remains is to negotiate with the store and exchange it for something more useful.

With DDR4 it’s clear - we’ll only talk about it further. But what else is DDR4 DIMM? What about DDR4 SO-DIMM? Or DDR4 DIMM Registered? Well, DIMM is just a Dual In-line Memory Module (double-sided memory module), that is, a direct and not very necessary designation of the fact that this is a RAM module of a certain form factor and nothing more (or less). DDR4 DIMM is just what you need for desktop computers.

Memory modules of the SO-DIMM (Small Outline Dual In-line Memory Module) format, as is clear from the English translation of the name, are distinguished by more compact dimensions compared to DIMMs. Such strips are used in systems with limited internal space. Laptops and mini-PCs are the habitat for such memory.

DDR4 DIMM Registered is a registered memory with a buffer that partially takes over control of data transfer in memory. Such modules are considered more reliable and fault-tolerant, but they are usually a little more expensive and, they say, a little slower than a regular DIMM. They are used almost exclusively in servers and are of little interest to the classic home user.

Briefly about the main thing. Are you assembling a computer from new, up-to-date components? This means that you don’t have to understand the types of memory and immediately check the box next to DDR4 DIMM, ignoring all the others.

Memory

Many people think that this parameter is the most important. And this is really almost true! At the same time, it is also the simplest. Yes, the “more is better” principle works great here. But within reasonable limits.

There is no point in buying 64 GB of RAM if... No, let's just leave it as “there is no point in buying 64 GB of RAM.” Of course, you can process terabytes of video for days on end, but then you’re unlikely to read this guide.

The minimum amount of RAM allowed today is 4 GB. Anything below is money thrown away. This volume is enough for web surfing, watching movies, and undemanding games. In general, what you need for a working office machine.

8 GB is enough for almost everything and for almost everyone. Games, high-definition movies, photo processing and a little video, a browser with a dozen or two open tabs. All this without special problems will run, but one at a time. Option without reserve, but you can live.

16 GB - for now best option for the vast majority of users. A browser with thousands of tabs can no longer be closed before starting a demanding game. In general, you don’t have to close anything. A very convenient container, with a small reserve, but without crocodile tears for unnecessary expenses.

32 GB is needed, but so far only for specific tasks “not for everyone.” This much memory will be useful for work, for example, by designers or those same video editing specialists. In home computers, 32 GB has not yet become a standard, although it is occasionally found among enthusiasts who need more of everything. Perhaps in a couple of years, individual AAA projects will begin to happily “eat” so much RAM.

Briefly about the main thing. For a computer “to surf the Internet” and with a very reduced budget, take 4 GB and save up for the same amount. 8 GB is a reasonable choice, but if possible, it is still better to give preference to 16 GB and forget about RAM for the near future. 32 GB - if you don't want to think about it at all.

Two 8 GB modules are better than four 4 GB modules

Above we talked about different amounts of RAM - 4, 8, 16, 32 GB. But why is there no word about 9 or 12 GB? After all, you can take one module with a capacity of 4 GB, then buy another 4 GB, save some money and cram another 4 GB into your computer. So let's deceive the system! Let's start small and gradually upgrade!

No one forbids doing this, but there is a nuance. Firstly, we must proceed from the fact that today memory sticks with capacities of 4, 8 and 16 GB are widespread. That is, installing 3 GB + 6 GB will definitely not work. Secondly, computers like an even number of installed memory sticks, that is, in fact, two or four modules. Thirdly, if you fill up all four slots on the motherboard, this will lead to increased load on the memory controller, and therefore may negatively affect the stability and performance of the system, as well as possible overclocking.

Thus, it turns out that it is best to use two slots (three is very undesirable, one is possible, but with an eye to the “additive”). Four are possible, but you must be sure of the quality of all system components and that you will not overclock it.

So which is better - one 8 GB module or two 4 GB modules? If we are talking about a new system, it is more logical to buy one 8-gigabyte module and start saving for another one of the same kind. What if the choice is between one 16 GB module and two 8 GB modules? In this case, the second option is preferable, and here's why.

Modern computers support dual-channel memory operation, which increases the speed of data transfer between memory and computer components. That is, the user actually receives an increase in computer performance for free. The power will not increase much, but why not take advantage of such a nice bonus?

There is a nuance here too - for dual-channel operation, you need two memory modules with identical characteristics from the same manufacturer. Many vendors offer kits of such memory - identical and guaranteed to work in this mode. It happens that such kits are more expensive than similar modules, but not included in the kit. It is not necessary to go for “prefabricated” offers; it is enough to buy identical planks of the same series (check the labeling).

For dual-channel mode to work, the memory must be installed in the “correct” slots on the motherboard. Usually they are designated in one color and placed one after another. For example, blue 1st and 3rd slots, as well as black 2nd and 4th.

Briefly about the main thing. Your motherboard most likely has four RAM slots. Don't rush to fill them all out! It's better to get by with two. Two 8GB modules are a reasonable option. Have some extra shekels? Then take two 16 GB. To make the system work a little faster thanks to the dual-channel mode, choose identical strips from the same series and from the same manufacturer.

Frequency and timings

Frequency and timings are key parameters for the speed of RAM. Today, standard DDR4 memory frequencies include 2133, 2400, 2666 and 3200 MHz. There are also sticks with other frequencies on sale - copies overclocked by the manufacturer. Timings indicate the time it takes for memory to process information and are designated as follows: 16-18-18-38, 14-16-16-31, etc.

Theoretically, the higher the memory frequency and lower the timings, the better. But (ha ha!) not everything is so simple. In the silicon life of our inorganic friends, the higher the frequency, the higher the timings. That is, by relying on one performance indicator, you will have to sacrifice another.

It is believed that frequency is more important for video editing, when working with large archives and in creating multimedia content. Low timings have a better effect on games. Let us note that in both cases we are not talking about a catastrophic difference; usually the increase is limited to a few percent at best.

It is also very important what maximum memory frequency your motherboard supports. A RAM with a frequency of 3200 MHz can be installed on a board that supports frequencies up to 2666 MHz, but will not be able to use its full potential and will operate at a lower frequency. This primarily applies to budget motherboards.

Briefly about the main thing. The higher the frequency and lower the timings, the better the RAM. It's a pity that there is no RAM with high frequencies and low timings. A module with a frequency of 2400 or 2666 MHz and associated timings is enough for everything.

Radiators, lighting, manufacturer

Phew, our memory is so cool, so powerful that we can’t do without this car radiator! It has become fashionable to hang the unfortunate operative with pieces of iron. But not because she absolutely needs to cool down, but simply for the sake of beauty.

RAM is one of the most heat-resistant and at the same time cold computer components. Heat sinks won't help or prevent anything simply because the memory modules don't need them. Moreover, massive elements can interfere with each other when installing the brackets into slots on the motherboard one after another. They can also touch the processor cooler.

It’s another matter if you are a furious overclocker who, with sweat and blood, extracts additional megahertz from every piece of hardware. With extreme overclocking and increasing the voltage to power the RAM, the heat dissipation can increase significantly, and then you really can’t do without additional cooling. However, this is the lot of 0.5% of users who know what to do even without our guides.

One of the equally useless, but increasing the price of memory, unnecessary things is the backlight. It’s especially funny when people buy such models in a closed case without windows. It is recommended only for those who consciously assemble not only a computer, but also a Christmas tree.

But the memory manufacturer is really important. When you open our catalog, you will see that RAM is produced by at least 40 vendors! The vast majority of them are essentially ordinary assemblers of products from ready-made components. But the most important thing - memory chips - is made by only a few companies. The most popular are chips produced by Samsung and Hynix. These same brands themselves produce memory modules - we recommend them for purchase. Brands like Crucial, Kingston, Corsair, Patriot have also proven themselves well.

Briefly about the main thing. Aren't you going to waste your property in its tail and mane? This means that radiators are not needed. Are you used to playing and working at the computer, and not admiring the LEDs shimmering with all the colors of the rainbow? This means that memory backlighting is definitely not needed. Among the manufacturers, we recommend paying attention first of all to Samsung and Hynix.

Overclocking

Enthusiasts love to buy inexpensive components and overclock them, manually increasing the performance. Moreover, they like to overclock not only processors, but also RAM. The topic of overclocking is very extensive and cannot possibly fit into one chapter.

But if you really want to do this here and now, you can look for memory modules with XMP support. The manufacturer already includes profiles with overclocked parameters in such brackets - increased frequency, changed timings and increased voltage. You don't need to do anything, just select this profile in the BIOS motherboard or using a separate program.

But it is necessary to take into account that often the performance gain from such factory overclocking will be noticeable only in benchmarks.

Briefly about the main thing. To overclock RAM yourself, you need a separate guide, the purpose of which is to find the optimal ratio of frequency, timings and voltage. You can use models that support XMP profiles, the parameters of which are already overclocked. But you shouldn’t expect a noticeable performance increase from such components.

Very briefly about the most important things

• For new system choose modules like DDR4 DIMM, all others can be safely skipped. If you want to upgrade something older, you'll most likely need DDR3.
• For a current modern system, 16 GB of RAM (two 8 GB modules) is sufficient. If you have the opportunity to spend money “in reserve,” then install 32 GB (two 16 GB modules).
• Frequencies and timings are the main indicator of RAM speed. But if you don’t give preference to very cheap copies, then you shouldn’t worry too much about these parameters, because you won’t notice a difference in performance anyway.
• Chips for RAM modules are made by only a few manufacturers, and the modules themselves are assembled by a huge number of companies. The technical process has reached a level where quality problems almost never occur, so you can choose based on your favorite or familiar brand, design, warranty conditions, etc.
• Unoverclocked RAM does not require cooling in the form of metal radiators. They only increase the cost of RAM and give it an aggressively polished look.

RAM is needed by a computer to store data and important information needed for operation. operating system. It is very important to choose the right amount of it, since a lack of it will slow down the computer, and an excess will not improve system performance in any way. When choosing a RAM module for a computer or laptop, you should pay attention to its type, frequency, brand and other important parameters.

RAM boards manufactured using DRAM technology. There are two form factors - DIMM and SO-DIMM. RAM is a semiconductor integrated circuit whose data changes dynamically. It only works when power is supplied to it. When the power goes out, all data is deleted from it.

How to choose RAM for your computer

1. SO-DIMM - used in laptops, monoblocks and other compact systems. They are half the size of conventional boards and, accordingly, have fewer contacts. Otherwise there are no differences from DIMMs.
2. DIMM is a type of RAM designed for full-size computers.

Board type

• DDR2.
• DDR3.
• DDR4.

The higher the number, the greater the frequency and bandwidth of the bar. This means that a computer with such memory will work faster. DDR and DDR2 boards are obsolete, so they are not used in modern computers. DDR3 is the most popular due to its good performance. DDR 4 has even greater performance, which is why it costs more than the others. Such memory has not yet received mass distribution.

Older types of RAM are increasingly rare on sale, so they are expensive. Often there is no point in upgrading an outdated machine - it is easier to invest money in a modern computer that can be upgraded over time.

RAM: frequency

Before choosing the RAM frequency, pay attention to the operating frequency of the processor and motherboard. It is recommended to buy a higher frequency bar only if you decide to overclock the processor. Modules with a frequency less than 1600 MHz It is not recommended to choose - they are relevant for very old machines.

A suitable option for most modern computers is in the range of 1600-2400 MHz. It is not advisable to buy RAM of a higher frequency - it is expensive, but there will be no obvious effect from it. The frequency of 2133-2400 MHz is justified if you are engaged in rendering, video and audio encoding. For most everyday tasks, a bar with a frequency of 1600 MHz is enough.

What are timings

Timings or latency is a characteristic that describes the performance of RAM. It is difficult for an ordinary user to understand the principle of operation of RAM. To put it simply - you need to choose bars with as few numbers as possible, indicating timings. Of two modules with the same frequency, the one with lower timings will work faster. For DDR3, the optimal timing is 10-10-10-30, for DDR4 - 15-15-15-36. Since timings are inextricably linked with frequency, when overclocking this parameter you will have to raise the timings. When choosing the type of RAM, it is best to pay attention to the optimal set of parameters, but you should not chase the maximum values.

Choosing RAM: volume

• 2 GB - this volume is only enough for web surfing. Even an old computer will use half the amount of RAM, the rest is barely enough for programs that do not require resources.
• 4 GB is the best option for a home computer. This volume is enough for most amateur programs, for listening to music, watching movies and even undemanding games.
• 8 GB is the recommended volume, which will definitely suit most applications and modern games. A computer with this amount of RAM can easily be called universal.
• 16 GB - justified when working with HD quality streams, high-resolution graphics, video rendering, and working in heavy programming environments.
• 32 GB - buying boards with such characteristics is not economically justified, since such a thing does not yet exist software and games that need such resources.

RAM Manufacturers

When purchasing, pay attention not only to the characteristics of the RAM, but also to the manufacturer. The quality of workmanship, impeccability and durability of the component depend on it. Sometimes it's worth overpay and get a quality product than buying a pig in a poke at an unusually low price.

Pay attention only for products of well-known and trusted brands. Companies with only a couple of board models in their assortment cannot ensure high quality of their products due to lack of experience. On the other hand, products of popular brands are most often counterfeited. The solution is to buy modules for your computer in official electronics stores.

How many planks should I choose?

RAM can operate in one, two, three and four channels. If the motherboard has several slots for RAM, it is better to buy several smaller sticks than one large one. This measure will increase the speed of your computer. For the system to operate in dual-channel mode, the strips must be installed in slots of the same color. It is important that the frequency of the bars is the same. Single-channel mode is activated when there is one strip or two strips of different frequencies. In the second case, the lowest frequency of the two is selected by default.

What else to pay attention to

The presence of individual packaging - this measure protects the board from damage during transportation, exposure to dust, moisture and electromagnetic fields. A packaged module is more likely to work stably.

Availability of radiators. More and more models with aluminum radiators, which have an original color and shape, are appearing on sale. If the board has a high operating frequency, then such an additional cooling measure will not hurt. For ordinary modules, radiators are not needed - rather, they will only do harm, since they dust will accumulate. In addition, these types of boards are more expensive than ordinary ones.

When choosing RAM for your computer, consider its type, volume, and frequency. Also pay attention to timings and the presence of radiators. Important the manufacturing company also plays a role. Don’t chase maximum parameters and big brands. Determine why you need a computer - this will help you make the right choice and not overpay for unnecessary power.

Memory DDR3 is gradually losing its position as the most widespread and is no longer recommended for assembling new systems. It’s another matter if the task is to modernize a slightly outdated computer, and within a limited budget. It’s clear that such conditions exclude maximally overclocked memory kits from the list of options, and they are not considered in our review.

It is noteworthy that within the platform Intel The race for megahertz doesn't make much sense either. The exception here is quite specific tasks that are not of interest to most users. On the other hand, the difference in price for memory kits of the same size but with different clock frequencies is vanishingly small (in the range from 2133 to 3000 MHz, of course). So why not choose a faster set of RAM for the future?

The situation is completely different with the newest platform AMD. Due to the peculiarities of their internal architecture, the performance of Ryzen processors directly depends on the operating frequency of the Infinity Fabric memory bus, and therefore its controller. In turn, the frequency of the latter is “tied” to the characteristics of the installed modules and can be increased through overclocking.

An extremely unpleasant nuance in choosing memory modules for Ryzen The problem is that not every kit will work in such a system even at its rated clock frequency. Here the problem lies in the architecture of the modules themselves. Briefly, the recommendations can be boiled down to two tips: focus on peer-to-peer memory sticks and the latest BIOS revision for the motherboard. The newer the AGESA protocol is, the better. Keep in mind that dual-rank memory with Ryzen will always operate at lower frequencies, and early versions of this protocol are “friendly” only to modules built on Samsung chips. And not just any, but exclusively the B-Die generation.

Happy upgrade!