7 things to look on Computer RAM before buying or upgrading

 There are various things to be looked at before buying or upgrading the RAM of the computer, but what are important ones? 

Here is a list of 7 things summarised to make things easy before buying a new RAM stick for your laptop or desktop.

Different things to be looked at on RAM

1) Motherboard and Processor:

Firstly, motherboard and processor compatibility is most important in deciding RAM. for, instance laptops use small size RAMs called SO-DIMM (Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module) having small size and having up to 204 pins whereas desktops use comparatively long RAM stick called UDIMM (Unbuffered Dual Inline Memory Module) having 240 pins these ram sticks have a special microprocessor which controls the data passing through RAM and hence decreases the load on the motherboard memory controller. Secondly, different processors support different versions and the capacity of RAM. For example, the new generation of processors supports newer RAM of higher capacity and processing speed.

2)Size:

Size depends on the use of the computer. For normal day-to-day activities 8 GBs of RAM is sufficient but for gaming higher size is required but least if 16 GBs is required for running most of the games.

3)Generation of RAM:

Depending on the technology used the RAM is divided into DDR2, DDR4, DDR5. The newer the technology higher is the capacity and speed of the RAM. But before upgrading the RAM you must check the RAM is compatible with the CPU and motherboard or not.

Computer RAM

4)Number of Slots:

The number of slots is very important for the performance of the laptop, running RAM in a Dual channel gives better performance than single RAM in a single slot. For example, if using 8 GB RAM then using two RAM sticks of 4 GBs each in two slots gives better performance than using a single 8 GB stick. Point to remember that two RAM sticks should be of the same size and frequency for better efficiency Because using two RAMs of different size cause performance loss and decreased efficiency.

 5)Frequency:

Frequency means the number of processing that can be done by the RAM within a second. It is represented in MHz.It simply means how fast the RAM is,  The higher the frequency higher is the speed of the RAM. For example, it printed on RAM as 4GB DDR4-2400 MHz.

6) CAS latency:

It represents the latency of the RAM. It is measured in ns. It is printed on RAM as CL (clock cycle). For example CL15, CL 17. Lower the value lower the latency of the RAM and higher the responsiveness of the Computer.

7) ECC:

It means Error Correction Code. Some RAM has extra chips for correction and verification of data over them. These RAMs are costly and slow. These RAMs are generally not used normally in household PCs because of their cost and slow speed and secondly these are not required in household PCs. These RAMs are specifically used in the servers.

So, these are 7 easy tips that can avoid any confusion while buying and upgrading the RAM of the computer.