Computer Tip – What is the easiest way to speed up my computer?
This is a common computer upgrade question I get asked. The answer depends on what your computer’s configuration is, but usually the cheapest, fastest & easiest way to increase your computer’s speed is to add more RAM memory. RAM memory is where Windows loads & you type your document/file before your save it to your harddisk drive.
Recently I have seen two laptops with 2GB Ram – one Windows 7, one with Windows 8. For laptops, you usually have two memory slots. The Windows 8 laptop had 1-2GB memory chip in 1 slot & the customer ordered an additional 2GB memory chip for about $25 with free shipping. The Windows 7 laptop though had 2-1GB memory chips filling both slots & they will check to see what pricing & options exist.
Some computers have to have 2 chips paired together – 2-1GB, 2-2GB, 2-4GB, etc. Some you can mix memory chips sizes – 1-1GB & 1-4GB, etc. Desktops usually have 2-8 slots to add RAM memory.
Another thing about your computer RAM limit is the version of Windows – 32-bit or 64-bit. Windows 32-bit is limited to 4GB RAM. The limit on Windows 64-bit depends on your Windows version, but starts at 8GB RAM & can range to 512GB RAM for Windows 8 Enterprise. Some computer brands/models may be limited to 8 or 16GB of RAM even if the Windows version will support more.
Simple, easy you say !?! If all these options seem confusing, I am available to help you decide what options you have for upgrading your computer & what makes sense to do.
Ray Bowyer, Computer Consultant
rayb_boise@yahoo.com, 208-631-7527
http://www.facebook.com/Ray.Bowyer.Computer.Consultant
About the Author: Ray Bowyer, Computer Consultant
Ray Bowyer, Computer Consultant lives & works in the Boise, Idaho area & provides computer desktop & laptop repair, training, problem solving, computer networking, & virus removal for Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell & other Treasure Valley Idaho area small businesses, home offices & home computer users. Phone: (208) 631-7527. Email: consultant@raybowyer.com . Mailing Address: 1740 E. Fairview Ave., # 305, Meridian, ID 83642. Computer Repair & Services - Boise Idaho - Meridian Idaho. "Reducing computer frustration one problem at a time by providing computer TLC(Technical Loving Care)!"