Need a boost? Add some ram.

Many computer users want to add ram to their system but aren't quite sure how it can help.

If you are using Windows 95 or higher, adding ram can allow your system to operate faster.

This is due to the way Windows caches data to the hard drive and uses swap files.

To simplify, let's use the analogy of a desk, the top of the desk being your work area (ram) and the drawers being used for storage (hard drive). The more space you have on top of the desk, the less data the operating system will need to dump into a drawer on the hard drive to have room to work. Adding ram will not increase the amount of space you have to store files on your system. Other benefits of adding ram are that you can now run larger programs, and there will be less wear and tear on your hard drive. Ram is measured in megabytes, with the size doubling each time. Common sizes today include 32, 64, 128, and 256 meg sticks.

When you decide you do want to upgrade, you'll be asked what type of ram you need.

There are several types, the most common of which are SIMM (single inline memory module) and DIMM (dual inline memory module). SIMMS are available in 30 pin and 72 pin, and is almost obsolete.

Older systems which have slots for both SIMM and DIMM type ram in many cases will not be able to run both types at the same time. Even if you could, you wouldn't want to, as the slower SIMMS would drag down the speed of the faster and less expensive DIMM ram.

Also some proprietary systems will not function with industry standard ram. Proprietary systems are

manufactured using parts specifically designed for a company (such as Compaq or Gateway) rather than

commonly available "industry standard" parts. To upgrade these, you must contact the original manufacturer, and hope your model has not been discontinued. Another factor regarding proprietary systems is that some require parity ram. The best way to check is to consult your owner's manual.

The ram used in most computers today is called DIMM ram. DIMMs are 168 pin SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic RAM) modules. The term SDRAM means a chip can keep two sets of memory addresses open at the same time. It is available in bus speeds of PC66, PC100, PC133, and PC150 (only used for overclocking, not recommended). The number after PC is the megahertz the ram runs at. Do not confuse this with the speed of your CPU. Although they are measured using the same yardstick, they are not the same thing. In most cases you'll need to match the speed of the ram to what is required for your motherboard. In some cases, you can buy a faster chip and it will automatically fall back to the proper speed for the board you are currently using. Again, you will want to check your motherboard manual before making a purchase. When purchasing ram for newer systems, be cautious of "bargain basement" ram. Some lesser priced chips may have compatibility issues and might not carry a lifetime warranty.