Finding the Right RAM For Your Computer
RAM is an essential element of any modern computer. Choosing short-term computer memory can be quite a technical step-by-step process with a lot of different specifications to look at, so it is a decision that should be made carefully.
Which Type of RAM Will Work With My Computer?
- Computer memory standards have evolved over the years and several generations of RAM have come and gone. Different generations of SDRAM include DDR, DDR2, DDR3, and DDR4. Newer generations are faster and typically draw less power.
- Different generations of computer memory attach to the motherboard using different numbers of pins. This means that they are never compatible with slots designed other generations, so you cant install DDR3 memory in a slot designed for DDR4.
- Some motherboards have multiple slots for different generations of memory. You still cant mix and match, though, so there is no point in installing two different generations. Motherboards arent compatible with all generations either, so before purchasing a new PC4-19200 module, make sure that you can actually install it.
- Laptops and desktops use different types of memory module, and they arent compatible. Desktop computers use DIMM, while laptops use smaller SODIMM units like DDR3L to save space. SODIMM laptop memory units can sometimes be used in a desktop by using an adapter, but it is usually easier to get the right type to start with. Some types, like DDR3L, will fit a standard DDR3 slot natively.
How Much Memory Do I need?
- Your computers typical moment-to-moment operations dont need much memory, but running data-intensive applications like games can use up a lot more. Installing 4 GB might be enough for web browsing and office applications, while video processing and editing might need 16 GB or even more. For an all-purpose computer without any specialist applications, 8 GB DDR3 is likely to be a safe option.
- You can install multiple memory modules on the same motherboard so long as they are all the same generation. For example, you could install two Crucial 8 GB PC3-12800 modules to have an effect 16 GB of memory.
- RAM speed matters too. The faster it is, the more operations it can perform in a given time. Speed is often measured in millions of bits of data transferred per second. PC3-12800 RAM would be capable of transferring 12,800 million bits of data each second. Memory speed can also be measured in MHz, like with DDR4-2133 or DDR4-2400.
Which Other Features Could Be Useful?
- If you are choosing memory for a server, reliability gets a lot more important. ECC memory uses Error Correcting Code to correct potentially dangerous errors. Most memory is non-ECC, so think carefully before installing it in a server.
- Most memory is also unbuffered. Buffered or registered memory places less electrical load on the motherboard so you can install more modules. The extra components mean that it isnt as high-density as regular RAM, so unbuffered memory is usually a better choice for most computers. However, the extra stability makes it great for servers. Manufacturers offer both registered and unregistered memory.
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