What is RAM in a computer and why is it needed?

Often, novice owners of personal computers ask themselves: what is RAM in the computer and why is it needed? It seems like there is a large hard drive on which a lot of data can be stored. And then there's some kind of RAM. The difference between the two is that the first stores information for a long time, and even when the power is turned off, it does not disappear anywhere. But the second of them is fast memory, which contains only what the processor is working with now. With the loss of electricity, it is completely zeroed, that is, it is volatile. And now we will examine in more detail what RAM is in the computer.

What it is?

First, let's figure out what RAM is in the computer. This abbreviation is deciphered as follows: “O” - operational, “Z” - storage, “U” - device. Physically, this is a very fast memory, which stores information processed by the central processor at the current time. The basic unit of measurement is a byte of 8 bits. In each of them, only one value can be stored: “0” (no signal) or “1” (potential present). RAM is now measured in gigabytes. Basic PC models are equipped with 4GB, while more advanced ones are equipped with 8GB or more. It is installed in expansion slots in the form of separate boards.

We clean

After we figured out what RAM is in the computer, we will find out how to clean it. And here two options are possible. In one case, it is dust removal from the memory bar. To do this, disassemble the housing and find them. We remove them and blow them lightly with a fan, wipe them with a dry cloth. Then we wipe the contact group with gauze moistened with alcohol to remove the oxide film and allow time for it to dry. Similarly, it is recommended to clean the remaining PC expansion modules once every six months.

And in the second case, how to clean RAM on a computer means stopping unnecessary processes. To do this, go to the "Start", then to the "Control Panel". Here we find "Administration" and the label "Services". In the window that opens, select the desired service by clicking the left mouse button and then click the button with a small square on the toolbar. It is important to understand that all services cannot be stopped, and before performing this operation, you need to make a list of those with which you can perform actions.

Install

Now we will figure out how to install RAM in the computer. First you need to study the documentation on the computer. Rather, clarify the number of provided installation locations and the maximum supported RAM. All this is in the manual for the motherboard or laptop. Next, we specify the size of the installed modules. To do this, hold down Del or F2 at boot (this can be found out at boot start in the message: Press x to setup, where x is the key we need). After entering the BIOS, go to its main page MAIN. Here you need to find the Installed memory item. Opposite it there will be a number - this is the amount of RAM in megabytes.

Now we compare the received value with that which is specified in the documentation. If they are the same, then more modules cannot be installed. Otherwise, we find out the type of supported memory. For example, DDR3 with a frequency of 1866 (this information is in the instruction manual). Then we buy a new module with a large volume (if all slots are occupied) or a new board with the same amount of memory (if there are free seats). In the first case, remove the bar and install a new one, and in the second - just put it in a free slot.

Conclusion

This article described what RAM is in the computer and why it is needed. Despite the fact that it is considered more important to buy a more powerful processor or a powerful gaming graphics card, you should not forget about RAM either. Its lack can lead to applications slowing down. Any modern computer must be equipped with a minimum of 4 GB. If it is planned to solve more serious problems, then its size should be doubled - 8 GB.