Linkin Posted March 28, 2014 Report Share Posted March 28, 2014 When it comes to improving system’s overall performance, adding RAM is good way to advance forward, but it is not always the best. Instead, I would suggest you consider polishing your existing memory tool, and optimize it to the fullest before you go around shopping for some more. This would involve making a few adjustments in computer processes, along with tampering with certain PC settings to minimize memory utilization and maximize performance. To help with your challenging, yet exciting journey, here are a few tips and tricks that guarantee outstanding results, and promise to bring you a better computing future. But first, let’s highlight the core component of our discussion, the RAM, and understand how it cooperates with the system to run programs. What is RAM and How It Works? RAM, also called Random Access Memory, is a form of computer storage unit that allows contained data to be accessed randomly. This differs from other storage devices, such as hard disks, CDs, floppies, etc., who read and write data only in a predefined order, varying application loading time depending upon their physical location. Every software uses memory for its operations. When you load a program, for example word processor or a browser, the CPU (Central Processing Unit) extracts the required executable (.EXE) and other crucial files from your hard disk and stores it into RAM. All operations are then executed from this RAM, rather than accessing hard disk which is a much slower process. The greater the space, the larger the capacity to hold programs and run multiple tasks simultaneously. Sometimes, the computer may run short on physical memory, probing you to terminate running programs before loading any further. Not only is this frustrating, but also alarming for the user who goes on closing down all applications. However, that is neither convenient nor, practical. Instead, here a few recommended ways to increase memory space and optimize RAM to the fullest. Monitor RAM usage The first step towards computer enhancement is to monitor system processes, and see which programs use the most memory. If found unnecessary, they can be then closed or disabled to free up useful space for other processes. To do this, use the Windows built-in Task Manager tool demonstrated here: Open Task Manager by pressing CTRL + SHIFT + ESC keys Click Processes tab This will show all processes currently running on the system Click Memory column to list all processes according to their memory consumptions descendingly Highlight any unrequired program and click End task to close that application Increase Virtual Memory Size Virtual memory works by using hard disk space as temporary storage for data that would normally be saved in RAM. The computer searches memory unit for areas that have not been utilized recently and moves them onto the hard disk. This frees up memory space for new applications, and gives a feeling of “unlimited” RAM to the user. Here is how to do it in Windows 8.1: Press Windows key and type computer Right-click Computer icon and choose Properties from the bottom From the System box, navigate to Advanced System Settings View Advanced tab Click Settings displayed under Performance In the Performance Options box, go to Advanced tab Click Change button under Virtual memory Clear Automatically manage paging file size for all drives Choose the drive that contains the paging file you want to change Enable Custom size, type a new size in megabytes in the Initial size (MB) or Maximum size (MB) box Click Set, and then click OK to confirm your decision Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts