RAM is very important for your computer, and if you don’t have enough of it you could experience issues like crashes, software freezes, and even potential damage to your hardware itself. So, if you’re interested in learning more about RAM and how to use it on your computer, please read on!
What Is RAM And Why Is It Important – A Brief Guide
The first thing to know about RAM is that it’s physical. In technical terms, RAM stands for Random Access Memory and it stores information that your operating system needs in order to work properly. The more memory you have available on your PC, the more things you can do at once without lagging.
For instance, if you want to watch a movie while surfing the internet and chatting with friends on Skype all at once, not only would it be nearly impossible to watch a movie because there would be too much going on, but it would be very slow. This is because the more things you have open at once, the less physical memory your PC has to work with.
The other important fact to know about RAM is that there are two types: DDR and SDRAM. The first stands for Double Data Rate. While this was a major step in computer memory technology, since 2006, all motherboards have shipped with Intelligent Memory Access, which automatically determines if a program needs DDR or SDRAM access and adjusts accordingly.
The next thing to know about DDR (and all memory), including SDRAM, is that speed matters! If you’re putting together your own desktop computer, then take care when buying the various components not to get too cheap on any of them because you’ll regret it in the end. If you’re buying a prebuilt system, then just be sure that it has at least DDR3 memory, 4GB or more is preferred for casual users.
Anything less than 4GB should be avoided (preferably by selecting something else). However, if the PC only has this much RAM available, make sure to close all your applications before watching a movie! SDRAM stands for Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory. The important thing about SDRAM to know is that it’s obsolete! Sure, you can still find SDRAM in older computers, but since 2006 even those are slowly being replaced with DDR.
The other major change with DDR over SDRAM was the introduction of independent channeling. This means that each memory module has its own data path to the CPU rather than sharing one single, slower data bus. So when you’re buying RAM for your PC, just look for DDR3 modules in the specs, and you’ll be fine!
What are the 3 types of RAM?
RAM stands for random-access memory, which is the computer’s internal storage system. RAM is important to know about because it makes programs run faster and more efficiently by allowing data to be temporarily stored (or held) before being erased. RAM has different types, but the 3 main ones are SRAM, DRAM, and VRAM. Here is how each works:
- Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SRAM) – Volatile – Expensive – Fastest – Typically used for CPU cache.
- DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) – Volatile – Usually cheaper than SRAPM – Slower than SRAM
- VRAM (Video RAM) – Non-volatile – Cheapest – The amount of VRAM differs from video card to video card
In conclusion, those are the 3 main types of RAM you should know about. They all have different purposes and functions that make a computer run smoothly.
What is DDR3 RAM?
DDR3 RAM is one of the three main types of RAM. It stands for Double Data Rate Three Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory, which means it has a data rate twice that of DDR2 and uses less power than DDR or SDRAM. This type of RAM is growing in popularity due to its reduced latency. Basically, the lower the latency on your computer, the faster it will run. So DDR3’s quick response time is something people are looking for more frequently nowadays.
How much does DDR3 cost?
As with most computer parts, the cost of this type of memory varies depending on the manufacturer and retailer. You can find this type of RAM refurbished or in small bundles (such as 2GB) for less than $20 USD; however, you could pay upwards of $200+ for top-of-the line DDR3 RAM kits. The price also depends on how many GBs are included in each kit. A 2GB (gigabyte) set would typically sell for around $15-$20; while 8GB kits can range from
What is DDR4?
DDR4 (Double Data Rate Fourth Generation) RAM is the newest data storage and retrieval generation for computers and smartphones. It can be found in high-end mobile phones, laptops, desktops, and servers. Although it is the newest generation of RAM, older models cannot fit into newer machines. This means that to upgrade or replace your current system, you will need to keep your old model as well, so you do not lose any capacity.
How much does DDR4 cost?
Prices vary depending on size and speed; however, prices range from $12-$1000 per gigabyte ($15-1125 for 1TB). For example: a 2x8GB Kit will run around $120, but a 32GB Kit can run up to $1000
What are the benefits of DDR4?
DDR4 is much more power-efficient than other types because it uses 1.2 volts compared to 3.3 in older models. Also, it has a smaller PCB board and chips, which means that the product is slimmer and smaller, meaning it will take up less space when used. In addition, DDR4 can reach speeds much higher than previous generations, with its base clock speed starting at 2133MHz compared to 1600 MHz for DDR3.
What to look for when shopping for new RAM?
When buying new RAM for your PC, there are several things to look for. First, look to see what speed the modules are. DDR3 is the current standard, so if you don’t see 4GB or more of 1066MHz memory, then it’s not worth getting that prebuilt system! Next, look at how many modules the computer has installed. If it only has one, this means it can only access a maximum of 1GB no matter what because all memory runs in pairs (with some expensive exceptions).
If you’re building a custom PC, make sure you get enough to fill all four slots on the motherboard because each slot can hold up to 8GB which should be plenty for most people even looking forward to the future years ahead! Also, make sure you get DDR3 or DDR4. These are the only types of RAM supported by today’s motherboards, and it’s been proven to be fast, reliable, and most importantly, affordable!
If you’re not sure if your computer has DDR or SDRAM, then look under “System” in the Control Panel and check what it says for System Memory. If -MB follows a number, then your computer uses SDRAM, and if there is just a -GB, it’s probably DDR. As we said earlier, the latter will likely be replaced with DDR over time, so either way, you’ll need at least 2GB, as we’ve already mentioned.
Once you know how much memory you need and have researched how many modules will fit in your computer/motherboard, you’re well on the way to picking out a good memory upgrade. Finally, look at how fast it is. 1066MHz or faster means that it will be fine with today’s computers and will keep you well equipped for years to come!
Some people may believe that this is an excessive amount of data, but we feel it’s safer to be cautious and has gone into considerable depth here so as not to perplex anybody! If you need any more advice about buying new RAM, please leave a comment below, and we’ll do our best to help!
How do I install my new RAM?
Replacing RAM is easy. All you need to do is make sure the power is turned off, then open your computer to see which slots are empty. If you’re replacing the memory stick that’s in there already, then just pull it out and pop your new one in. It might take a try or two, but this should fit well enough.
Close up the computer, turn on the power switch and start enjoying your faster system! And don’t forget about multitasking now that you have plenty of memory at hand!
Summary:
Now that we’ve taken a look at what is RAM and why is it important, we feel you’re equipped to make an informed decision about which RAM is right for you. It’s important to remember that RAM is a very important component to your computer.