RAM ("memory")

RAM (often called "memory") is the super-fast, volatile memory inside the computer. "Volatile" means that when the power is turned off, the memory disappears. ("Storage" is different: storage is hard drives, floppies, or Optical discs, which keep their memory even after the power is turned off.)

RAM is like the workspace area for the CPU. If you have more workspace, you can do more jobs. For example, let's say your kitchen is very small, and you only have 10cm² of free counter space. You will only be able to have a few small items in that space. To get extra items, you will have to walk back and forth to cabinets and the refrigerator, which slows down your cooking. A bigger working space means you can do more work, more quickly.

Computers are the same. If you have little RAM, your computer can only run one or two programs quickly. But if you open up more than that, your computer slows down quite a bit!

In order to get the best speed from your computer, you should have as much RAM as you can afford.

Most computers are sold with the MINIMUM RAM, in order to make the price seem lower. So you will probably have to buy EXTRA RAM when you buy your computer. Today, a total of 512 MB RAM is perhaps the smallest amount of RAM you can have. Most computers you buy today only have 512 MB of RAM. If you run only one or two programs at one time, then maybe this is good enough for you.

However, it is always best to increase your RAM! I would suggest you upgrade to 1 GB of total RAM--add at least 512 MB extra, but if you can afford more, buy more. Not only will more RAM let you run more programs at the same time, but it will let you upgrade to future software without speed problems. For example, in 2007, the new Windows OS ("Vista") will come out--and it will require much more RAM.

The amount of RAM needed increases as time goes on, and you use new operating systems and new software.