Memory (RAM & VRAM) Info


Memory can most easily be divided into RAM (Random Access Memory) and VRAM (or Video RAM). When you open a program, it is loaded into the RAM. To find out how much memory an application uses, click on it's icon and chose "Get Info" from the File Menu. The Memory Requirements are in the bottom-right corner of the Info box. While in the Finder, you can chose "About This Computer..." from the apple menu to find out how much built in memory (RAM) you have as well as other info. If the amount of free memory available is less than a program's memory requirements, you can not open that program. If you need more memory, you can turn on Virtual Memory in the Memory Control Panel. The down side to Virtual Memory is that it is slower than physical RAM and it uses up hard drive space to act as virtual RAM. Thus adding more RAM can increase the speed of your computer. Also having more memory can increase a programs performance.

The better solution is to buy more memory. You can buy memory chips in varying memory sizes to suit your needs. They also come in different formats. SIMM's are used in older computers and DIMM's are used in newer computers. It is important to check the documentation that came with your computer in order to buy the right kind. It is also helpful to know your computer model. Also, to add memory, you need an open memory slot. You can check in the documentation how many slots are in your computer. If you've never upgraded, only one will be filled; otherwise, more may be filled. You can open and check if you need to (see installation instructions). If all slots are filled, you will need to remove an old chip and replace it with a larger one (do the math). Here is an example of the info you should have (based on my computer):

Model: G3 Desktop
Open Slots: 2
RAM Specs:

Buying memory online is very easy. All you need is the model name and the # of open slots. Once you have made your purchase, see the installation instructions to install it yourself.

VRAM is used by your computer to display images on your screen. Having more VRAM allows your computer to support more colors and resolutions. Use this program to calculate the amount of VRAM you need to get a specific display. Newer computers (G3's, iMac's) typically come with 2 MB permanently installed and 1 expansion slot that may be empty or filled. This slot can hold either a 2 MB or 4 MB chip (SGRAM SO-DIMM). As with RAM, you should check the documentation that came with your computer before buying.

To Buy Memory Online:

This is very easy. You select your computer from a list and it will bring up your options of memory modules to buy. To get to this wizard: (read all 3 steps)
  1. Click Here.
  2. Select Hardware: Mac from the images on the left.
  3. Select Memory from the list on the left. This will open up a new window where you can select your computer model.


Check out this article on why you shouldn't install memory into an iMac yourself (too complicated).



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