Buying Memory

-Buying memory can seem somewhat of a mystery. The main idea is to buy as much as you can afford or what you think you may need. In most cases 128MB is more than enough for the common person. If you are into graphic designs or heavy duty applications get at least 256MB. The machine I am running uses 128 MB and I swear sometimes its not enough.

-If you adding memory to a old computer of new don't rely on it for all of your performance! You will get more out of a better CPU rather than more RAM, however make sure you have a comfortable amount for your applications.

Check For Errors

-Parity and Non-parity RAM, depending on how much of a worry wort you are buying Parity RAM will detect errors while Non-Parity wont. If you are running a server or a computer that is real sensitive to error I would suggest Parity RAM. If you are just a general home user go with the cheaper non-parity.

Safe

-If you system supports it look for SDRAM or whatever the system calls for. Also make sure and match up the RAM pins with the motherboard SIMM/DIMM slot pins. What I mean be this is gold pins on your RAM should go with gold pins on the SIMM/DIMM slot on the motherboard. This isn't the end of the world nor a golden rule, but play it safe for the long run.

-Buy from a reputable manufacturer such as PNY. There are many company's that have re-manufactured RAM. This can be a problem later on and you should go ahead and pay the money for new and warranted memory.

Check Your System

-Check you system's motherboard manual for more information on what RAM type you need. If you system is made to run at 100 Mhz bus you should look into PC-100 RAM,  if your system is made to run at 133 Mhz you should buy PC-133 RAM.

Learn More About Memory

About RAM

Installing RAM

TroubleShooting RAM

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