You make memory upgrades so that your computer can handle tasks quicker and more efficiently, which is especially useful when it comes to using the large applications such as Microsoft Office, or the major computer games.

But, it’s easy to get confused as to the type of memory you need to make a desktop, or laptop work quickly.

Bear in mind that the computer’s processor is the machine’s brain and allows you to do the things that you ask of it. But, you need memory for long term storage (for example, a hard disk drive), and memory for quick tasks in which the processor needs a little help in providing the full suite of services. This has become especially important over the last decade, as computers have become increasingly multi-tasking.

When we talk about memory in this case, we’re talking about the type of memory that is used at the time of operation to help the computer work at speed; not the sort of memory that is used to keep files and applications once the computer is turned off. It’s commonly known as Random Access Memory, or RAM.

There are two technical terms for this sort of memory: volatile and non volatile. We are concerned here with volatile memory and what that basically means is, that it’s memory that requires a power source to keep the information stored. In other words, once the computer is switched off, then the information is gone.

Now, as with all things technical, there are different types of volatile memory, and the main two we need to briefly mention here are Static Memory (shortened to SRAM) and Dynamic Memory (or DRAM). The latter is the most common form of memory used today.

Okay, enough of the technical jargon. All you need to know is that RAM, in whatever form, will help the speed of your computer and memory upgrades are there to help boost your machine’s capability.

Now, arguably, a computer should ship with enough memory to do the business. But in this highly cost competitive world in which margins are measured in pennies, manufacturers often equip their entry models with the lowest specifications. This is not usually apparent immediately, but becomes obvious when a desk top, or laptop begins to ‘chug’ and literally slow before your eyes.

If this starts to happen, then it could be down to the lack of memory and you will need to take steps to boost it. But first, read the instructions and ensure that your particular machine has the capability to take on more memory. In desk tops, you will usually find an extra, or if you’re lucky, two, or three extra sockets where new memory boards can be simply plugged in. The computer should do the rest. The easiest way to get the right memory board is to use an online manufacturer who lists all computers and what type (and how many) new memory boards can be added.

Same for a laptop; online suppliers usually have all types of laptops listed and will specify what type, and how much you need. Laptop RAM memory is usually accessed underneath the laptop and should be easily upgradable.
So there you are. If you suspect that your computer is making heavy weather of what you’re asking of it, and you think it’s down to memory, then an upgrade is a very sensible option.