Computer Memory--RAM

   Memory is the electronic holding place for binary data that your computer's microprocessor can reach very quickly. When your computer is in normal operation, its memory usually contains the main parts of the operating system and some or all of the application programs being used. RAM (random access memory) is often used as a shorter way of representing and discussing computer memory.

 This kind of memory is located on one or more microchips that are physically close to the microprocessor in your computer. RAM in the beginning was on many discrete chips in separate sockets on the motherboard. The more RAM you have, the less frequently the computer has to access instructions and data from the more slowly accessed hard disk form of storage. Therefore, the more RAM the faster your system operates--generally.

   Additional kinds of integrated and quickly accessible memory are read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), and erasable programmable ROM (EPROM). These are used to keep special programs and data, such as the basic input/output system, that need to be in your computer all the time.

   Installing more RAM into your system is a good way to make it run faster without spending a lot of money. If possible, you should try to max out the memory your system can handle by purchasing the memory you need online and installing it.