RedGage

RAM, or random access memory, is an important piece of hardware running on all computers. Without RAM, the computer is unable to function and read programs. Although you may know RAM is installed on a computer, you may not know exactly what it does and why exactly it is there (or perhaps you need to explain what RAM is to a friend). Once you understand the basic concepts of RAM, you shouldn’t have any difficulty explaining RAM to anyone else you know.Think of RAM as short-term memory. The RAM gives memory to all the programs that are running on your computer. Without short-term memory, you are unable to perform many of your daily tasks, and the same is true with computer RAM. RAM only works on active software and applications on your computer. Information that is saved, such as documents and projects you are working on, is stored in the long term memory bank of your computer, better known as the hard drive.Look at the amount of RAM required by a specific program. This is listed on the “System Requirements” panel, typically found on the side of the programming package. Different programs need different amounts of RAM. This is the same as your short term memory, as different subjects and problems require you to use more brain power. A simple math problem (such as 2 2) requires less memory than a more advanced math problem (such as any calculus equation). The same is true with programs. Less memory is required to run a word processing document than to run a more advanced video editing program.Updating the RAM on a computer and installing additional RAM on the system increases the short term memory of the computer. Computers have multiple RAM slots found internally and, typically, not all slots are used when the computer is produced (allowing you to upgrade the system). Adding additional RAM speeds up the programs you are running, allowing you to use faster, more advanced software titles. If you want to know how much RAM is currently on your computer system click “Start,” “Control Panel” and double-click the “System” icon. This loads a window displaying all the current hardware on your computer, including the RAM, the RAM type and the amount installed.When it comes to computer hardware, it is always a good idea to know exactly how the equipment is used. This helps you determine what is going wrong on a computer, if an error ever occurs and how best to fix the issue.