Does My Computer Need More Memory?

<p><strong>Does my computer need more memory?</strong></p><p>Whether it is for a work computer, a desktop for home or a laptop for a college student the most common question I am asked is "Do I need more memory for my computer?".  As a technology specialist for a large school district I am asked this question on a daily basis.  While not every slow computer can be fixed by popping in a few chips of memory, it can never hurt.</p><p>The first step in diagnosing the issue is to ask yourself if it was a good computer when you first purchased it, and quantify how much slower it is today.  The next step is to look at how much you have done in terms of keeping it free of spyware, viruses, malware, etc. since you purchased it.  If you bought a relatively low quality computer from the beginning, it might be time to simply buy a new one.  In most cases however you can invest in a few memory chips and notice a significant increase in speed for common tasks such as word processing, surfing the internet, playing video games, photo editing, etc.</p><p><strong>How do I find what type of RAM I need?</strong></p><p>If you have decided that your computer is significantly slower than it should be, the next step is to go about purchasing the new RAM chips.  There are so many different models of computer that it would take forever to list the individual methods for finding the exact memory you need.  The easiest method is to use tools provided by hardware retailers that will automatically detect the correct memory and then fetch the prices of applicable memory sticks.  Most major online retailers offer this service, I would highly recommend you buy memory online rather than in a physical store because the prices are far more competitive online.</p><p><strong>How do I add more RAM to my desktop or laptop?</strong></p><p>Adding more RAM is usually an incredibly simple process.  Computers are made with the knowledge that the number of transistors per chip will double every 18 to 24 months, and as such the price of DRAM (dynamic random access memory) drops steadily.  Since this has been a constant trend for the past 60 years, manufacturers purposely make it simple to add more memory to your computer.</p><p>If you have a desktop you will just find the release latch to open up a side of your computer, if you have a laptop there is typically a compartment with a picture of a RAM chip on the bottom of your computer.  In both cases you will just open up the compartment and add the extra memory chip next to the others.  If you are replacing lower capacity chips press down on the two tabs that hold it in and pull straight up, it shouldn't provide much resistance.  When you install your new memory make sure that the memory is pushed in fully but do not apply so much pressure as to damage the memory stick.  The chips are typically relatively durable so don't be too worried, it is self-explanatory once you actually look at it for yourself.</p><p>If you would like to order more RAM for your computer one of the cheapest places to do so is <a target="_new" href="http://www.productscamreviews.com/Computing-and-Internet/Computers/4AllMemorycom-Reviews-4-All-Memory-Free-Shipping.html" rel="nofollow">4AllMemory.com</a>. 4AllMemory provides mechanisms to easily determine the exact RAM you need for your computer. If you have determined that your computer is beyond repair, the author recommends you read the following <a target="_new" href="http://www.productscamreviews.com/Computing-and-Internet/Computers/HP-Reviews-HPcom-Coupon-Codes.html" rel="nofollow">HP.com Reviews</a>.</p><p>James Spinosa is a technology specialist for a large school district in upstate NY. He has over five years experience in industry and is an expert in computer hardware and diagnostics. James is also is a product reviewer and owner of Fourth Floor Marketing.</p>