How much RAM I can have useful??

[auriaks]

Hi all,

I want to buy more RAM for my PC, but I have faced one problem. I don't know if my PC will use ALL of inserted RAM. Maybe there is a program to test my computer? I already have 1GB of ram(DDR1) in one socket.

Can someone suggest me something?

Thanks in advance

[Snookerman]

Good luck!

[djr33]

In general most recent computers can take at least 2GB. Some smaller laptops might not be able to. But desktops can do at least 2GB, and I think that has been true for about 5 years.
Check your computer to be sure, though.
And some newer computers can take up to 6GB, 8GB, 16GB or even 32GB... it just depends on the system.


The other thing to remember is that you can't just "add" RAM most of the time. Usually you must replace it. There are two reasons:
1. It is generally better to have the same kind (brand, not size--and definitely Type) in all of the system. I don't know if it's really required, but ask an expert if you plan to mix them. I've heard bad things can happen.
2. Computers are usually sold with ALL of the RAM slots filled. This means that if you have 2 RAM slots then you currently have 2x512MB = 1GB. Therefore you cannot add another 1GB chip: both slots are full. To get 2GB you need to buy 2x1GB and throw away [sell?] the extra 2x512MB. Of course the less expensive way to do it is to buy 1x1GB and keep 1x512MB and end up with 1.5GB total, throwing away 1x512GB. For some computers (if you have an expensive/fancy computer) you might have extra RAM slots, but this is rare (and VERY rare for laptops).

You also need to know what type (see above) RAM your computer supports. Google helps here too.
Also, if you can open your computer (do it carefully WHEN THE COMPUTER IS OFF AND NOT PLUGGED IN) you can just look at the RAM configuration and even remove the RAM chips (Carefully!) and look at how big they are.
If you don't know how, then look up a tutorial on google. It's not that hard, but if you just guess it might hurt something.

[offshoredevelopment]

it depends what you will install xp or vista because vista usefull to laptop. If you will install vista in your desktop, that time vista will be finished your 1gb ramp so atleast you will need 2gb ramp for your computer

[chin2boy]

you must need up to 2 gaga ram to improve best speed

[brudawson]

If you have 1 GB of RAM in your computer and you have a DDR1. So you just expand your RAM upto 2GB and that enough for any kind of requirements. 2 GB RAM have enough speed and it process all the program and software with good speed. So I think that enough for you and your all need.

[kashifali08]

its depends open your computer specifications.like,if u have p3 then configiration
is 1GB processor,40 hard,& 512 ram i think its enogh.