Adding computer memory to your PC is an easy way to improve efficiency and performance. Most computers come with a standard amount of RAM already installed, but you can usually add more to better suit your needs. Installing more RAM is also fairly simple, even for basic level computer users.

There are multiple types of memory modules, and some better suited to certain applications than others are. Some are ideal for building powerful gaming PCs, while others give a boost to work computers, laptops or even large servers.

What Are the Benefits of Installing Additional Computer Memory?

As your computer accumulates software applications and files, its hardware needs to keep up with the growing demand for resources. RAM modules provide additional processing power so that numerous complex programs can load quickly and run efficiently.�Some graphics display cards feature their own on-board RAM specifically dedicated to producing sharp, high-quality visuals in video games. Even basic programs for tasks like word processing and spreadsheets load faster and run smoother with additional RAM installed.

Installing RAM Memory for Increased Performance

Installing RAM is an easy process, whether you're working with�a�desktop tower�or a laptop. It requires no additional software, and the process is similar across different machines and nearly all RAM types. It's simple to insert the chips into the corresponding slots while the computer is powered down, and you'll see the benefits immediately during the PC's next startup. RAM is also easy to remove and replace if needed, but it typically performs reliably for a long time with proper use. Graphics cards with their own built-in RAM also simply plug into place in expansion slots, although they may also require the installation of certain software or additional cooling fans to deal with the added heat production.

Different Types and Sizes of Computer Memory

When installing RAM into a computer or server, be sure to match the number of pins on the chip to the ones accommodated by the computer's slots. It's also important to check the notch position to make sure it lines up correctly. Install only up to the maximum amount of RAM that your operating system can handle to get optimal performance from your machine. Laptops take smaller memory modules while servers will likely require much larger chips. With a memory kit containing multiple RAM pieces, you can provide upgrades to server components for several computers in your home or within your company.

There's no need to settle for a computer that has slowed with age when you can buy PC memory. Choose from the wide selection of PC and Mac RAM memory�as well as other desktop components available from B&H Photo and Video.

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Capacity Capacity indicates the total amount of memory in a particular RAM module. Capacity is primarily measured in gigabytes (GB) and terabytes (TB). The primary benefit of more RAM is improved multi-tasking. The more RAM a device has, the more tasks it can perform at once.

Memory Speed Memory Speed, or clock speed, is a measurement that indicates how many times per second a RAM module can access its memory. Typically, it is measured in megahertz (MHz). In general, the faster the speed, the better the performance.

Memory Type The Memory Type of a DRAM module can be separated into two systems: DDR (Double Data Rate) and SDR (Single Data Rate). In terms of clock speeds and latency, the most advanced memory type is DDR4, followed by DDR3, DDR2, DDR, and finally, SDR.

DIMM Type DIMM Type is defined by the pin count of a particular DIMM module (for example, 288-pin/DIMM). The pin count of a DIMM module is important because it indicates which type of DRAM (DDR, DDR2, etc.) that particular DIMM module supports.

Mac Memory Mac Memory indicates which series of products a specific memory module is intended for. For example, Mac Pro (Late 2013) is a memory module designed for Late 2013 Mac Pro devices.

Error Correction (ECC) Error Correction Code (ECC) memory is a type of RAM memory that prevents data corruption by automatically detecting memory errors and correcting them. Though a useful and sometimes critical failsafe, ECC memory is also slightly slower than Non-ECC memory.

Voltage Voltage indicates the amount of power consumed by a particular memory module. In general, lower voltage memory draws less power, runs cooler, is slightly more expensive, and may not overclock as well as standard voltage memory.

Heat Spreader A Heat Spreader is a type of passive heatsink that dissipates the heat a RAM module produces, effectively cooling the module down. Theoretically, heat spreaders can ensure or boost RAM performance while overclocking.

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Upgrading a PC with Memory (RAM)

What Are the Benefits of Installing Additional Computer Memory?

Installing RAM Memory for Increased Performance

Different Types and Sizes of Computer Memory

Capacity

Capacity indicates the total amount of memory in a particular RAM module. Capacity is primarily measured in gigabytes (GB) and terabytes (TB). The primary benefit of more RAM is improved multi-tasking. The more RAM a device has, the more tasks it can perform at once.

Memory Speed

Memory Speed, or clock speed, is a measurement that indicates how many times per second a RAM module can access its memory. Typically, it is measured in megahertz (MHz). In general, the faster the speed, the better the performance.

Memory Type

The Memory Type of a DRAM module can be separated into two systems: DDR (Double Data Rate) and SDR (Single Data Rate). In terms of clock speeds and latency, the most advanced memory type is DDR4, followed by DDR3, DDR2, DDR, and finally, SDR.

DIMM Type

DIMM Type is defined by the pin count of a particular DIMM module (for example, 288-pin/DIMM). The pin count of a DIMM module is important because it indicates which type of DRAM (DDR, DDR2, etc.) that particular DIMM module supports.

Mac Memory

Mac Memory indicates which series of products a specific memory module is intended for. For example, Mac Pro (Late 2013) is a memory module designed for Late 2013 Mac Pro devices.

Error Correction (ECC)

Error Correction Code (ECC) memory is a type of RAM memory that prevents data corruption by automatically detecting memory errors and correcting them. Though a useful and sometimes critical failsafe, ECC memory is also slightly slower than Non-ECC memory.

Voltage

Voltage indicates the amount of power consumed by a particular memory module. In general, lower voltage memory draws less power, runs cooler, is slightly more expensive, and may not overclock as well as standard voltage memory.

Heat Spreader

A Heat Spreader is a type of passive heatsink that dissipates the heat a RAM module produces, effectively cooling the module down. Theoretically, heat spreaders can ensure or boost RAM performance while overclocking.