In life, it is often said that “you can never have too much of a good thing.” Apparently, this is not so when it comes to RAM (Random Access Memory – also referred to as simply “memory” or storage) for your laptop or computer! No need to spend money on extra RAM that your system cannot utilize. (You can easily check the specifications of the system you are considering by asking how much memory is already installed, and what the maximum memory capacity is for the system.) But how can you be certain you have enough computer memory not only for your current needs, but for what your future needs may be, too? Let’s start at the beginning…how much computer memory do you need?”

When buying a computer or laptop, the available memory on that system should be a primary consideration, because the more you do, the more memory you need! The applications you use dictate how much memory you need for the best possible performance, the smoothest graphics and the speediest downloads. RAM is used every time you open an application, download, play a game or video – even turning on your computer requires RAM.

Peripherals such as webcams, digital cameras, DVD players and USB hard drives require more RAM. These requirements, coupled with complicated web pages and PC-based video games may surprise you in that you have significantly less RAM than you thought. Therefore, buy the most RAM you can afford; more RAM makes for a speedier computer. Today, available PC systems range from 512MB (which is the bare minimum) to 4GB of memory.

If you already have a computer and are considering a memory upgrade, review the manuals that came with your computer or motherboard. Included in the documentation are the specifications for the memory supported. This is important because it will list exactly the type, size and number of memory modules that are supported. (Most retailers and/or manufacturers have this information, too.)

Buy as few modules as possible for the amount of memory you want to install; this will aid in future system upgrades. (For example, if you have 3 memory slots on your computer, one of which has a 1GB module in it, it is smarter to buy another 1GB module to get to 2GB of total memory verses purchasing two 512MB modules.)

To give you some idea of RAM requirements, according to a 2009 pcstats.com article, Windows Vista Basic requires a minimum of 512MB, though they advise that realistically, that number should be doubled. In fact, the article states that “Vista will function with 512MB system RAM, but the ride is a rough one!” While Microsoft recommends Vista computers ship with 1GB memory, 2GB of RAM is generally considered the best option for Windows Vista.

The easiest ways to boost performance for any PC is to add memory (RAM) to the system. Before purchasing that memory upgrade, however, remember to verify what type of memory your computer uses, the memory module sizes and what already exists in the system. If you are buying a new system, look for the maximum RAM available.