Choosing the Right RAM Memory for Your Computer
Your laptop can get incredibly slow over time, which is particularly frustrating when you want to project your work on a screen, and all it does is embarrass you in front of your clients.
In such a situation, you can either delete data to get more space or upgrade your machine's capacity. This will speed up your computer's response to commands and ultimately improve its performance.
An upgrade may sound like a buy, plug, and play procedure, but if you buy an unsuitable laptop RAM, you could end up with the same problem you started with or worse.
How much GB memory do I need?
Whether or not to buy a 4 GB Ramaxel memory stick ideally depends on how much you use your machine. Most come with a standard size 2 GB memory. For better performance and regular use, consider a memory stick that is bigger, like the Ramaxel 4 GB DDR3.
However, if you use your desktop for gaming or other demanding activities, consider going for up to 6 GB memory.
What type of RAM interface should I choose?
The type of RAM to go for highly depends on the machine you use. The most commonly used is the DDR3, for instance the Ramaxel 4 GB DDR3 1600MHz. Let's look at them as a whole:
- Synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM)
- Double data rate (DDR)
- DDR3- An upgrade of DDR
- DDR4- An upgrade of DDR3
- SO- DIMM - Used by laptops
Should I go for 1 DIMM or 2 DIMM?
A dual in-line memory module (DIMM) is a circuit board that holds memory chips. It is slightly different from the single in-line memory module (SIMM) in that the former uses a 64-bit bus while the latter uses 32-bit. Your DIMM can be configured in two ways:
- 1 DIMM - This means the RAM occupies one slot
- 2 DIMM - This means that that the RAM is split and occupies two slots.
It is important to note that 2 DIMM slots use up more power compared to 1 DIMM slot even if the two hold a total capacity that adds up what the 1 DIMM holds.
What other factors should I consider before choosing a memory stick?
There are a number of factors, like voltage and speed, that you need consider before replacing your laptop's RAM memory. Some of them include:
- Compatibility - To determine what RAM is right for your laptop, check the details indicated on the motherboard. The RAM that was used to test your computer is the most compatible
- Latency - Also known as timing, this is the delay between certain commands that the memory sub-system of your computer gives. For good performance, go for lower latencies because they will increase your bandwidth.
- Frequency - Your RAM frequency needs to be compatible with what your motherboard accepts. For efficiency, consider a Ramaxel that goes for 1600MHz to go with a motherboard that requires a lower frequency
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