Getting more computer memory can significantly boost your PC, making it faster and more stable. We explain how to speed up computers
How much RAM do you have?
Just right-click the My Computer (in Windows XP) or Computer (in Vista) icon on your Desktop and select Properties from the menu. On the General tab, you'll see the name of the computer manufacturer, the processor type and the amount of RAM.
How much memory is available?
Click Start, Programs, Accessories, System Tools, System Information, and make sure System Summary is selected in the window that opens. Among the information displayed on the right-hand side, you'll find figures for the total physical memory and the available physical memory on your PC. You can get a live update on the amount of available memory by right-clicking the Taskbar, selecting Task Manager and then clicking the Performance tab.
How much memory do you need?
Aim for 1GB of RAM, which will reduce start-up and shut-down times, make software launch faster and let you switch from one program to another more quickly. Vista will run even faster with 2GB of RAM at its disposal, which is recommended as the ideal amount for most users.
Add memory the easy way
USB flash memory drives are cheap and provide lots of potential storage space. Plug one into a Windows Vista PC and a feature called ReadyBoost will employ it as extra RAM. Connect the memory drive to a spare USB port and, when the AutoPlay box opens, select 'Speed up my System'. You can decide how much space on the drive to allocate as memory.
Identify memory modules
There are many different types of memory module – they contain the RAM 'chips' – and you don't need to open your PC to find out what's installed. Simply run the free programs CPU-Z or PC Wizard (both are available from www.cpuid.com) and they'll give you the details. Alternatively, memory supplier Crucial (www.crucial.com/uk) provides online facilities such as the Crucial System Scanner tool.
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Speed up computers - get more memory
How much RAM do you have?
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Claire Woffenden, Editor
