How to Choose the Right RAM configuration?

When buying RAM for the first time, whether to upgrade or build a new computer, choosing the right configuration can be a daunting task. There are a variety of terms for different performance specifications, and often the most expensive, top of the line models are well beyond what may be needed to improve your computer’s performance. RAM, or Random Access Memory, is hardware that holds the temporary data that your computer is using at a given moment, including programs and the OS. In this blog, we will discuss some of the basics of RAM, as well as how to choose the correct configuration for your system.

RAM is a volatile form of memory, meaning that any data that it holds is lost once the computer is shut off. As data is constantly overwritten and RAM can read and write to any location regardless of area, it is extremely fast as compared to even the quickest SSD. RAM also works together with other data components such as the CPU and storage drives extremely often. When opening a program, it is transferred from the storage device to the RAM so that it can be loaded and used. Because of this, each component’s performance can affect the other. As such, a fast hard drive may not mean much for speed if you have very slow RAM.

When choosing the right RAM configuration for your system, one should always consider their intended use for the computer. For the standard user, having the highest speeds and sizes of RAM will not make a tremendous difference for casual purposes. Those high end configurations will often best benefit those who run applications with heavy memory loads such as video rendering and encoding.

Compatibility of your desired RAM configuration is also an important issue to be aware of when purchasing. Motherboards are the central hardware unit that all other components are attached to, and ensuring that the RAM slot is compatible with the RAM sticks you want to buy is critical. Generation of your RAM or motherboard can also affect compatibility, as cross-compatibility of generations is often impossible. Lastly, checking that your computer case will allow for the size of your RAM and possible included heat sink should be considered. Much of this information can be found by inspecting your computer, checking hardware manufacturer information, or by searching for your “System Summary” page on your computer.

At ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find SSD drive parts and memory (RAM) parts you need, new or obsolete. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@asapsemi.com or call us at +1-714-705-4780.