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Memory - RAM
RAM is Random Access Memory. It is the part of the computer that processes information. When a program is started it is loaded into RAM to be run.

Inside your computer is one or more slots (usually black) that contain memory chips. Most computers ship with only one filled. To add RAM to the computer you need to find out what kind of RAM (Random Access Memory) your computer takes. The manual that came with your computer's motherboard should have details on what kind of RAM you will need, how much RAM each slot can take and how many slots your computer has. When you receive the upgrade chips they simply snap into the slots on the motherboard.

In Windows, click your START button (bottom left) and click Settings, then Control Panel (In XP, click START then Control Panel). Then click the System icon and look at the info listed on the General tab. The amount of RAM in your system will be listed there in megabytes (MB).

Once the RAM is installed your Windows 95/98/ME/2000/NT/XP system will automatically detect the new memory and start using it.

Adding RAM is the easiest, most cost effective way to boost your computer’s performance.

There are many types of RAM: EDO, FPM, SDRAM SODIMM, RAMBUS and more. Your manual or manufacturer should be able to explain what kind of RAM you have and need. If you have a brand name computer a quick way to figure out what RAM you need is to see Crucial's Memory Advisor. Pick your computer brand from the list below and then the model and model number. It will report what type of RAM you need to buy and how much it will cost.

Every computer has a different maximum amount of RAM you can install. Each motherboard (the big circuit board in your computer) has different a maximum. The are a couple of ways you can figure out how much RAM your motherboard can hold. If you still have a manual that came with your computer, there should be information found in there that shows how many RAM slots are on your motherboard, how much memory each slot can take and what the maximum amout of RAM your system can use.