RAM

Random Access Memory, or RAM, is one of the easiest things to upgrade, but also one of the cheapest components in a computer. Below is an example of a set of RAM that you might look at online.

Timing: 5-5-5-15 Speed: DDR2 1066 (PC2 8500) Capacity: 4GB (2 x 2GB)

The speed of the RAM is given two ways. Taking a look at the first, DDR2 1066, we see two parts. DDR2 shows that it is the second generation of DDR. DDR original, or DDR1, is almost completely obsolete and would only be found in a very old computer. DDR2 is currently being phased out and DDR3 is coming in to replace it. A motherboard has slots where you insert the RAM, and they can only accept one version of DDR, therefore you will have to decide which version you want to use. The second part, 1066, is how fast the RAM is. There is a lot more technical information on these numbers, but all you need to know is that the higher the speed the better.

The second designation in parenthesis is merely another way to say DDR2 1066. PC2 is the generation and 8500 is the speed.

Timing is another important factor in how your ram performs. Basically, timing can be thought of as response time. So applications that request lots of little files from memory will be helped by a lower latency RAM. This would include a lot of games as well as CAD programs. For most intensive purposes though, just keep in mind that higher latency is worse, and should be taken into account when comparing two different sticks of RAM. Low latency RAM can be very expensive, and for most purposes is not worth the added cost.

And lastly capacity. This is probably the most talked about, and you're probably already familiar with it. 4 GB is a safe amount and probably plenty for most computer setups today, but 6 or 8 GB might be preferable if you're trying to build a real high performance computer. It is something that is always easy to upgrade later if you're trying to squeeze every penny out of it for now. Just make sure that you purchase a motherboard that can accommodate extra RAM if you plan on upgrading.

Also, it is a good idea to purchase RAM in a set like the one pictured above because most modern motherboards are equipped with dual channel memory, meaning that your ram works better in pairs. Some motherboards even come with tri-channel memory, so just make sure that the memory matched the motherboard you select later.