RAM also technically known as Random Access Memory is one of the crucial components of a computer system. It is also upgraded frequently by computer user to get enhanced performance out of their computer system. it is also known as volatile memory which means unstable memory. This is due to the fact that data stored on RAM does not persist when the computer is shut off, unlike in case of HDD where your data is permanently stored. Since, it is an important integrated memory chip that forms a significant component of computer, one should be careful while selecting a RAM for his computer system.
Type of RAM:
The first and foremost factor which is highly crucial is the type of ram which should be, for sure, considered while purchasing a random access memory chip. In order to determine the type of RAM you may want to buy, you need to check in the motherboard manufacturer or computer manufacturer instruction manual or other documentation. You can also log on to the manufacturer’s site to get details on what type of RAM you would require for your system.
There are three widely used RAM types:
SD RAM: SD RAM is also known as Synchronous Dynamic RAM which is a type of memory from the series of DIMM RAMs. This type of RAM synchronizes itself with the system clock to offer accurate synchronicity between the Random Access Memory and computer processor.
DDR: The first kind of RAM which was widely used and is still in operation with some computers is the DDR RAM. DDR is abbreviation of Double Data Rate which uses the increasing and decreasing edge of system clock which also doubles that transfer rate of the memory. DDR technology is widely accepted today and can be found in Video cards etc.
DDR2: As the name suggest DDR2 is the advanced version of DDR RAM and can be also called as Double Data Rate 2. DDR2 RAM provides enhanced speed of up to 400 MHz and above. It also proffers great data transmission rate and does not require too much power to function. There are certain differences between DDR and DDR2 which does not allow DDR2 RAM to work on DDR slots.
DDR3 SDRAM: DDR3 SDRAM is one of the latest introductions in the industry and is highly adopted by users. It provides significantly high bandwidth rate for the ongoing tasks in a computer system. DDR3 SDRAM, as the name indicates, is one of the versions in the line of SDRAMs and is based on the same technology. DDR3 SDRAM is the enhanced successor of its predecessor the DDR2 SDRAM. However, both are not compatible, which means that, when DDR3 SDRAM is connected in DDR2 slot on the motherboard it does not function. DDR3 offers doubled bandwidth as compared to DDR2 and offers memory capacity anyway between 512 MB and 8GB. Nowadays a motherboard can hold up to two memory chips which mean that you have an option to install two chips obtaining the total ram memory of up to 16 GB.
Memory Space:
Memory Space is another important factor that you should determine when you buy a memory card for your system. However, to understand how much memory would be suitable for your system you should determine the nature of work and kinds of program you will install in your system. It is better to go for higher amount of memory space according to the number of tasks you will have to keep running at a time. if you already have a computer than you can try to determine the memory which is being used by your system while it is running and double the determined memory to obtain a competent RAM. For example your computer utilizes 512 MB RAM space, even when required essential programs are running then it is suggested to buy a RAM that offers 1024 MB (1GB) memory space. However, if you buy a RAM with higher memory it will be beneficial for your system; remember the more is the memory space the better it is for your system. .
Speed: It should be understood that memory alone does not make a competent RAM. Speed is something that also plays an important part and serves as a decisive factor while buying a RAM. It is measured in MHz or MegaHertz. The best RAM sped based for regular PC would be around 800 MHz. However, RAM speed can be approximately 400Mhz and above. If good RAM memory space is accompanied by considerable speed of RAM, then it will function in an ideal way offering significant transmission rate and more than sufficient memory.
Effects of Memory Upgradation:
There are many benefits that can be enjoyed by upgrading RAM to a better and enhanced version. For example, it may enable some program to start functioning which may require higher memory to be operated. It may also enable such programs to execute faster and does not take much time in loading or closing. It may also fix certain memory errors which you may have noticed pre upgrading your RAM.
In case you are upgrading your RAM you should understand that though upgrading RAM by replacing it is easy, one need to be careful and attentive. It requires basic computer software and hardware skills to accomplish the task. Remember you may have to dismantle the CPU in order to locate and replace RAM, hence you need to posses sufficient knowledge and appropriate tools such as computer tool kit etc. It is advised to take experts assistance or some with workable knowledge of computer hardware as RAM is a delicate chip and any minuscule mistake can lead to major issues. You need to be aware of ESD or ElectroStatic Discharge which may cause severe technical malfunction.
One of the most important things that one should remember is to switch of the computer and unplug the switch before you replace the RAM. Most individuals including veterans and experts try to replace the RAM when the system us on. This leads increases the chances of technical malfunction to occur. Hence, while buying RAM. installing or replacing one need to be careful and attentive.
