Managing my memory

[spaced]

My pc is only 2 yrs old but it seems that when I play the sims or have google erath open, it really drains the memory. Is there a how to guide on managing my memory?

[vehelpfulguy]

I assume you mean your RAM memory as opposed to hard disk memory.

Generally you dont manage the memory, Windows manages it for you.

The main thing you can do is make sure you have enough memory.

On Windows XP there is an option on the menu called System Information. Run this and see how much memory you have got.

Remember if you do not have a separate graphics card then it may be you are using some of the RAM to drive the graphics.

If you are running XP and you have 256Mb of memory that is not enough.

If you have 512Mb of memory that is probably OK.

[-=BigD=-]

Like vehelpfulguy said, I increased the RAM on my XP machine from 256Mb to 1.2Gb (added a 1Gb stick of RAM) and the difference is vast its sooooo much faster to do anything.

[spaced]

what is the cost for a say 256mb upgrade?

[vehelpfulguy]

You can probably get 256Mb of memory for less than �20.

But note it is VERY important to get the correct memory for your motherboard.

Memory is changing all the time, with different number of pins, different speeds and so on. If you buy the wrong memory it will stop your PC working.

This web site has a program (see system scanner) which will tell you what type of memory you need.

Note that sometimes memory from 2 different companies may not work together. It MAY be better for you to buy a 512Mb (or even 1Gb) and replace the memory you have.

Once the new memory is working you could put your "old" memory back in to see if it works. If it does it is a bonus, if not you can just take it out and you will still have 512Mb.

Check the documentation that came with your computer to see how much memory your computer can take (some have a maximum)

[vehelpfulguy]

Whoops, forgot to put a link to the web site

http://www.crucial.com/

[spaced]

cheers vhelpfulguy!

Thanks to all of you!