Parts one &
two of this article can be found at the blog links at the bottom of this page.
Laptop/Desktops
Performance Issues
#4 Not enough Ram (memory installed)
Insufficient
RAM (random access memory) on any computing device can severely impact both the
performance and more importantly the life of the device. Understanding the
relationship that ram plays in your device is quite often misunderstood. This
area of understanding has become muddied by the advent of the tablet and smart
phone.
Most computing
devices consist at the most base level of three components –
#1 The
Processor – aka cpu central processing unit or brain if you like,
#2 Ram
(random access memory) provide an area to run apps.
#3 Storage
for your information, the operating system and your apps.
The
processor runs your apps and loads these apps into ram when you require them.
If you had only one app then this would be a very simple process and unless the
size and you would have a blazingly fast device. Obviously this is not the case
so the cpu uses swapping to overcome this issue. Swapping involves moving your
apps in and out of ram as needed. To do this the cpu and creates temporary
files on your storage device and this process takes time. The more apps you run
the slower your system will become as it must manage the swapping process as
you pop between your apps.
Thus the
more ram a device has the less swapping that must occur. It’s as simple as
that. Adding additional ram to desktops and laptops was usually possible but
like everything this option has become less available with the move to cheap
throw away laptops. Smart phones and tablets cannot have ram upgrades. Before
you rush out and buy more ram its important to understand that ram
alone is not the only issue. The power of your cpu and the storage on your
device are part and parcel of the package. There are also other considerations
which to avoid confusion I won’t go into!
The
swapping process requires energy and energy creates heat. Heat kills devices. It is vital to keep your device
as cool as possible. When it comes to laptops and desktops regular checks by a
qualified technician will ensure all the components in your computer that
ensure it stays cool are working effectively. Finally a note on storage, the
cheaper laptops now available have less than 1/10 of the storage capacity of
computers I worked on ten years ago. Progress ? You decide on that one.
Next Month,
God willing, I will continue on this and the other topics listed.
