How many sticks of RAM should I install? We destroy myths about the work of RAM. RAM type
Those users who have at least once experienced the delight of increasing the size of their computer's RAM by two or more times are sure that the more memory, the faster the computer works. However, the rule “more memory - faster computer” does not always work. After a certain value, the effect decreases and then disappears altogether. Now let's try to figure out how much memory can theoretically be installed in a computer, and how much is actually needed for optimal operation of applications and the operating system.
How much memory can I install?
The theoretical limit for 32-bit systems is a little over 3 gigabytes. A 64-bit system could theoretically handle 16.8 million terabytes!
Today, when programs are optimized for working with large amounts of memory, the RAM disk is losing some of its attractiveness. And if you consider that all the data on it will be lost during a power failure, then the idea of creating such a virtual drive at home loses its relevance.
So, the optimal amount of memory for a home computer is 8 GB. In this case, the memory sticks will justify the money you invested in them.
And the best answer to the question “What should I do with free memory?” sounds like this for modern operating systems: “Don’t interfere with your work!” Those. just leave the memory alone - the system itself knows how best to use it, just work with programs and games.
Be sure to pay attention to the article, which reveals many points on how memory works.
If the amount of RAM allows you to simultaneously use a large number of programs, this is great, because you can quickly switch between them without having to close programs.
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Random Access Memory, commonly referred to as RAM or RAM, is one of the most important parts of any computer. But how much is needed for the device to work well? Current new PCs and similar devices offer values from 2 GB to 16 GB or more.
The amount of memory required depends on two factors - what you intend to do and how much you are willing to spend.
Introduction to RAM
Memory capacity is often confused with the long-term storage offered by a solid state or mechanical hard drive. Sometimes even manufacturers or retailers confuse these concepts. To understand how much RAM is needed for normal operation of the device, you need to understand what its significance is.
A table is a useful analogy to consider the difference between RAM and memory. Think of RAM as the top of the table. The larger its surface, the more papers you can spread out and read at once. Hard drives are more like drawers under your desk, capable of storing documents you don't use.
The larger your system, the more programs it can handle simultaneously. RAM is not the only determining factor, and you could technically have dozens of programs open at once with even very little RAM and it would slow down your system. Now imagine the table again. If it's too small, it becomes cluttered and your work will slow down as you try to find whatever paper you need at any given moment. You will often be forced to dig through drawers to place things that won't fit on the desk surface, as well as to get out the necessary papers.
A computer with more RAM runs noticeably faster, but only up to a certain point. Having a large desk won't help you if you only have a few articles to read.
Optimal ratio
How much RAM does your device need? Your goal is to have enough RAM for all the apps you use on that particular device. If there is too little of it, work slows down. Too much RAM can only mean that you've paid a lot of money for something you'll never be able to use.
Difference from other characteristics
Standard RAM should not be confused with video memory, but the two concepts are closely related to computer graphics cards. High-performance 3D games rely on video memory (VRAM), often expressed as GDDR5, while standard memory is called RAM or DDR3. In fact, most manufacturers are very good at identifying VRAM and not confusing it with other parameters. Therefore, to determine how much RAM is needed for GTA 5, for example, you need to consider both of the above indicators together.
Heavy Applications
The biggest services on most home computers are the operating system itself and the web browser. You can't make Windows or MacOS use less memory, but more RAM on your computer means you can open more tabs in Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer, etc. Plus, some websites use more RAM memory than others. Simple text news takes up almost no resources, while something like Gmail or Netflix requires a little more power.
Programs are generally used because they increase the complexity of the job. A chat program or game (like Minesweeper) will use almost no RAM, while a giant Excel spreadsheet or a huge Photoshop project might use more than one gigabyte. Professional and engineering software are built to handle very complex projects and tend to consume the majority of RAM of all programs. Modern 3D games can also use quite a lot of RAM and VRAM. In other words, your need for how much RAM to install depends on the programs you use.
- 2GB RAM: Good for tablets and netbooks only.
- 4 GB RAM: Minimum for budget Windows and MacOS systems.
- 8GB: Great for Windows and MacOS systems.
- 16 GB: Probably too much; Ideal for mid-range workstations.
- 32 GB or more: For enthusiasts and dedicated workstations only.
For tablet
Tablets are not expected to deal with complex software tasks, so their RAM requirements tend to be quite low. However, as multi-tab browsers and more complex software continue to evolve, the needs of tablets are becoming more similar to those of laptops. Current specification options typically range from 2GB to 16GB of RAM, with processor speed playing a major role in determining the range.
For example, the iPad Air 2, which has about 2GB of RAM, places a lot of emphasis on its all-in-one processor. And a device like the Microsoft Surface Pro can accommodate up to 16GB of RAM because users of this device may want to run a lot of professional software as well as a desktop OS.
And it gives you guidelines for choosing RAM - what do you use your tablet for? If you only browse one site at a time and don't use the device for any large projects or work software, then 4GB RAM will probably be sufficient. However, if you also use your tablet as your main PC, you must equip it with the necessary RAM. Typically, this means you will need between 4 and 8 GB.
Choosing RAM for laptops
New laptops have between 2GB and 16GB of RAM, while high-end gaming models offer up to 32GB. As mentioned earlier, the needs of tablets and laptops converge, but most users feel comfortable running more complex programs on laptops, which means RAM plays a more important role here.
For something like a Chromebook, which runs primarily in the cloud and has very little storage space, you won't need much RAM. Opting for 4GB of RAM is enough, especially since you can use the Google Play Store to download Android apps directly on your computer.
How much RAM is needed for Windows 10 and new MacBook modifications? You should consider increasing this number to the standard 8GB. Most of the best laptops come with this value for good reason. Of course, if you do a lot of graphical work or want to have multiple tabs open at once, you might want to consider upping the RAM to 16GB. This is especially true for gamers - the question of how much RAM is needed for games always remains relevant.
Desktop computers
RAM in desktop computers is cheap, so it's fairly easy to find PCs with more memory at lower prices. Additionally, more RAM on PCs can be beneficial as people tend to use them for longer periods of time than tablets or laptops.
How much RAM does a PC need? 8 GB is a good value to start with. Upgrading to 16GB is recommended for enthusiasts, hardcore gamers, and the average workstation user. Serious workstation users can upgrade to 32GB. Even when talking about how much RAM is needed for games, you can make sure that too significant parameters are not required.
Anything more is the edge of extreme specialties, equipped to handle huge amounts of data, huge video files or niche programs intended for researchers, corporations or government.
Please note that the amount of RAM and the type and speed supported by your system will depend on your motherboard.
Probably, every user of a modern computer who is trying to upgrade it in order to increase performance by installing additional RAM sticks knows, or at least guesses, that the matter is not limited to just purchasing a new module and inserting it into the appropriate slot on the motherboard. If some basic parameters are not taken into account and mandatory conditions are not met, conflicts may subsequently arise. Therefore, it is initially necessary to check the compatibility of the RAM and motherboard. This can be done in several ways, which will be discussed further.
Why do you need to check the compatibility of your motherboard and RAM?
Previously, at the dawn of the development of computer technology, when mainly only DDR SDRAM standard sticks were produced, there were no problems with their installation. The only question here was one of volume.
With the advent of new standards, checking the compatibility of RAM with the motherboard has become more relevant, since not all manufacturers have managed to retrain for new types of RAM. Today the situation is repeated exactly the opposite: manufacturers of mother chips refuse to support old modifications of RAM, excluding their support. The situation is similar with outdated mother chips.
This can be explained with an example. Let's say the motherboard supports DDR3 RAM sticks with a frequency of 1333 MHz, the user bought and inserted a DDR3 stick into the slot, but operating at a frequency of 1600 MHz. What does he get as a result? Yes, the bar will work. But! At the frequency of the mother chip, and not the one for which it was originally designed. However, stable operation is not absolutely guaranteed. And if the throughput of the bar is not comparable with that of the central processor, expect trouble.
What parameters should be taken into account when replacing RAM sticks
As for the main parameters that should be taken into account when installing new or additional RAM modules, the main ones include the following:
- memory type and generation;
- operating frequency;
- memory capacity of each individual stick;
- timings;
- operating voltage;
- manufacturer;
- type of computer device (desktop PC or laptop).
How to find out motherboard compatibility using the simplest method?
Now about the verification itself. Everyone knows that when purchasing a computer device, the corresponding technical documentation is supplied with it (unless it was purchased secondhand).
Thus, the compatibility of the motherboard and RAM is simply checked in the passport of the mother chip. As a rule, all manufacturers indicate the necessary technical parameters and a list of supported devices or manufacturers. But what to do if the user does not have such documentation at his disposal? In this case, you will have to turn to the Internet.
Where can I find the chipset parameters?
But first you need to know some basic characteristics of the motherboard itself, or at least know the model number. There are no problems with this on desktop PCs. You can simply remove the side cover and look at the indicated modification.
For laptops, this option is less convenient, so you can use the “Run” console, enter the msinfo32 command in it, and then view the main characteristics of each component, including the main chipset.
But this information may not be displayed. In such a situation, you can check the compatibility of the motherboard and RAM on the equipment manufacturer’s website. For laptops this is generally an ideal option.
For example, the compatibility of RAM and ASUS motherboard can be found directly on the official resource. When you log into the site, you simply enter your laptop model number, then go to the main chip section and use the specifications or support tabs.
The first option is intended for so-called advanced users, where all the main parameters of supported modules will be shown in the RAM section. The second tab contains a link to download the main list. By downloading it, you can see exactly what requirements apply to RAM sticks, and which manufacturers are included in the list of officially supported ones.
Using the AIDA64 program
In principle, in order not to go far, you can use universal utilities for checking the configuration of a computer system, one of which is the powerful AIDA64 program.
The first step is to check the compatibility of the motherboard and RAM for the maximum amount of RAM. To do this, use the main “Motherboard” section, find the “Chipset” line in it, or view the “Maximum memory” item through the “Northbridge Properties” menu.
But this is only general information. More detailed parameters are presented in the SPD section. But here we already have all the main characteristics that should definitely be taken into account when choosing new RAM sticks (list given above). Based on this data, it will be possible to choose exactly what is best suited for the mother chipset.
Conclusion
Summing up briefly, it remains to add that the compatibility of the motherboard and RAM when purchasing additional memory modules or when replacing old sticks with new ones must be done without fail, otherwise conflicts that can lead to complete failure of the computer or laptop cannot be avoided. In terms of the methods used, you can advise either going to the equipment manufacturer’s website, or using the AIDA64 application or something similar. Only after this will it be possible to select the required RAM sticks even on the Internet.
How can I find out what maximum amount of RAM my laptop supports?
How can you find out how many RAM slots it has without opening your laptop?
How to find out how many RAM sticks are installed in a laptop now?
How can I find out what frequency my laptop's RAM runs at?
How do I know if my laptop's RAM sticks work in multi-channel mode?
How to replace RAM in a laptop?
How to find out all the characteristics of the RAM sticks installed in it without disassembling a laptop
Hello friends, first I will answer all your questions, and then we will disassemble the laptop and find out how to replace the RAM sticks.
Firstly, You can find out what maximum amount of RAM your laptop supports on the official website of its manufacturer. For example, on the website of my laptop there is information that you can expand the amount of RAM up to 16 GB. If there is no such information on the manufacturer’s website, then read the information at the end of the article.
- The type is also indicated - DDR3 and the frequency of the RAM at which the laptop runs is 1600 MHz. The native frequency of a laptop's RAM can be determined by the processor model, for example, our laptop has a processor installed CPU Intel Core i7, officially supported memory standards for this processor: PC3-8500 (DDR3-1066 MHz), PC3-10600 (DDR3-1333 MHz), PC3-12800 (DDR3-1600 MHz).
If your laptop has an Intel Core i3 CPU or CPU Intel Core i5, then the RAM characteristics for them will be exactly the same.
To find out all the other information we are interested in about the RAM installed in the laptop, download the free utility CPU-Z.
This program will show you all the technical characteristics of the central processor and other computer components, including RAM. I always carry this irreplaceable program with me on a flash drive.
Click Download Now.
http://www.cpuid.com/softwares/cpu-z.html or download the program on my Yandex.Disk.
Download and run the installation of the program
The main window of the CPU-Z program displays all existing processor characteristics. In today’s article, we don’t need them, so let’s go to the tab SPD.
SPD - shows the presence and characteristics of RAM modules installed in the laptop.
1. Memory Slot Selection(Memory slot selection).
If you click on the arrow, we will see how many RAM slots are in the laptop. In our case there are two of them: Slot 1 And Slot 2 and both slots contain RAM modules, which may have different characteristics.
In Slot 1 A RAM module with the following characteristics is installed:
Memory type - DDR3.
2. Module Size-the volume of the RAM module presented in megabytes is 4096 MB or 4 GB.
3. Max. Bandwith- the maximum bandwidth of the installed RAM module in megabytes PC3 is 12800 (800 Mhz). What does the following information mean:
First, the throughput of the PC3-12800 is indicated. PC3 - designation of peak bandwidth belonging only to the DDR3 type. If you divide the bandwidth of 12800 by eight and you get 1600. That is, this memory stick operates at a frequency of 1600 MHz. This RAM module is completely called PC3-12800 (DDR3 1600MHz).
What happens if you install non-native memory into a laptop?Friends, if we install a memory stick in our laptop that operates at a higher frequency, for example PC3-15000 (DDR3 1866 MHz), then the laptop will at best transfer this memory to a lower frequency 1600 MHz, and at worst, it will work unstable and with constant reboots or will not turn on at all.
4. Manufacturer- Samsung (name of memory manufacturer).
5. Part Number- M471B5273CHO-YO batch number.
6. Serial Number- E15004DF serial number of the module.
And here is the RAM module itself in person. Laptop RAM is in SODIMM format and differs in appearance from simple RAM.
Second part of the window SPD.
Timings Table- timing table.
7 . Frequency- memory frequency 800 MHz
8 . CAS# Latency- reading delay.
9 . RAS# to CAS#- bank line activation time.
10 . RAS# Precharge- pre-charge time of the bank.
11 . tRAS- time between opening the line and the command to precharge.
12 . tRC- time between activation of lines of one bank.
13 . Voltage- voltage used by the RAM stick.
Second memory stick
1. Memory Slot Selection(Memory slot selection).
Click on the arrow and select Slot 2
2. Module Size - 2048MB. Friends, please note that the second RAM stick has exactly the same characteristics, but its capacity is 2 GB .
But despite this, the RAM sticks operate in dual-channel mode (Dual), you can see this in another tab related to RAM, it’s called Memory.
Memory - responsible for the main characteristics of RAM
1 . Type- RAM type: DDR, DDR2, DDR3.
2 . Size- the amount of memory in gigabytes, in our case on the laptop the total amount of RAM is 6 GB.
3 . Channels #- the number of memory channels indicating whether there is multi-channel access to memory or not, in our case there is a dual-channel mode of RAM operation ( Dual) .
4 . DRAMFrequency- the actual frequency of the RAM at which it currently operates. RAM installed in our laptop DDR3-1600 transmits data on the bus at a frequency of 800 MHz, but due to the doubled data transfer frequency, the speed is 1600 MHz.
5 . FSB:DRAM- memory divider, showsratio of memory frequency and system bus.
Both of our RAM sticks in the laptop are installed in two slots.
