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General discussion

Memory

Jul 2, 2004 4:37PM PDT

I'm about to buy a new computer. Would I be better off with 512 mb RAM or 256 RAM with a 128 RAM memory stick?
Thanks
David

Discussion is locked

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The more the better
Jul 2, 2004 6:55PM PDT

assuming you are buying an XP computer, the more memory the better. Even though XP can run with 256, you will not be happy unless you get up to 512MB. Memory prices are relatively cheap, so let your budget decide what you can afford, but I'd go with as much memory as possible

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Re: Memory
Jul 2, 2004 10:55PM PDT

The memory stick needs to be treated differently from system RAM. It's a portable storage device treated as a drive letter. You can transfer files to and from the stick. RAM is temporary and volitile storage that is used by your system to load needed data for programs that are in use. When RAM runs out, the system uses temporary disk space which is much slower than physical RAM. As stated in the other post, the more the better (up to a point). Systems run better and faster when RAM is adequate to the task and disk swap file usage is minimized.

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Re: Memory
Jul 3, 2004 8:27AM PDT

Thanks everyone - a clear choice. 512 it is.
David