Many people have asked me what kind of computer they should buy to replace the one they have.  When I get asked the question, the first questions is ask is, “How old is your computer?”.  Typically the answer is 2 to 3 years old.  If you have a computer that is only 2-3 years old, there is a huge chance that you don’t need a new computer - you just need to speed up the one that you have.

The second question is always “How much RAM memory do you have on your computer?” and invariable I get a blank stare back.  About 1 in 10 people actually know the answer.  RAM (stands for Random Access Memory) are the computer chips that allow your computer to store data that needs to be processed or that has been processed.  The more RAM you have, the faster your computer can be.

Here’s How to Check: (Both XP and Vista)

• Click on START menu, select PROGRAMS, select ACCESSORIES then select SYSTEM TOOLS and click on SYSTEM INFORMATION option (this may take a minute to load).  Look near the bottom of the screen that opens, and find “Available Physical Memory” to see how much RAM you have.

If you run Windows XP, you probably need AT LEAST 1 Gigabyte of RAM.  If you run Windows Vista, you need AT LEAST 2 Gigabytes of RAM.  Newer computers come with 2-3 Gigs of RAM out of the box, but historically computer makers like HP, Dell and Gateway only put about 256 megabytes (meg) to 512 meg in new computers assuming that you would buy their expensive upgrades.  Without enough memory, your computer will run Slow.

I ALWAYS BUY RAM ONLINE!  WHY, because these online stores KNOW WHAT THEY ARE DOING! I won’t buy RAM at Wal-Mart, Office Depot, or Best Buy,  because it WAY TOO EXPENSIVE  and there typically is not a qualified person there to help you with any questions that you might have.  With an ONLINE RAM Store, I can call or chat with them if I have any questions.  This is the only way I buy memory…PERIOD!

Get a Static Strip too…you’ll see it in the video below.  Sometimes your memory will come with a static strip, if not - they are very inexpensive.

RAM can be pretty inexpensive if you buy the correct one.  Make sure that you use a Memory Configurator like the one at Memory Depot (see below).  RAM comes in a LOT of different flavors, and your computer requires a very specific type of RAM - So we use the Memory Configurator to identify the right kind of memory for our computer.

If you have any questions, call the 800 number they provide…they are always very helpful.

I have the memory….now what?

Watch this YouTube Video where they show you how to replace memory.  NOTE:  The video shows you how to install the memory, just do the opposite to remove the old memory (if you intend to remove it).

www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWqiv8ag0s4

Upgrading or Adding more memory can be SCARY, but it’s VERY EASY.  YOU CAN DO IT!

Post a comment below if you have any questions.