System Memory
Most people are aware that your system has memory - the chips that are used to load programs and execute them and manipulate data - after all, that is what a computer does. But how many are aware of the different types of memory there are? Here's a list. It's not exhaustive and it doesn't include memory used in things like palmtop computers.
· Random Access Memory (RAM) - used to load programs and manipulate data. This type of memory does not survive a system reset (that is - switching your computer off).
· Read Only Memory (ROM) - used to store the boot sequence and the instructions your computer can understand. This memory DOES remain even when your computer is switched off. Your graphics card will also contain ROM for drawing primitives (basic shapes such as some letters)
· Memory Cache. Special "fast" memory that can be quickly accessed by the CPU without having to retrieve data from main memory. It is contained within the CPU rather than on separate chipboard. It is used to store the most recent data from memory. Typically, a modern PC will have 512KB of system cache.
· CMOS. A small area of memory that is used to store details of your systems configuration. It can't survive a power cut and has to be powered by batteries for when your PC is switched off.
With most of these types of memory there is very little we can do to reduce the chances of a bottleneck occurring. The only one we can affect is RAM and only by adding more can we help things.
The Windows operating system cannot get enough RAM. Like an ever-hungry beast, it will devour everything you can throw at it. It has been known thought that on Windows 95 systems, more than 64 MB of RAM can actually slow the system down. This is due to the system having to devote so much time to memory management that would otherwise not be needed.
With Windows 98 though, this limit has been reduced and 128 MB would make for a great system. (64 MB makes for a good system, while 32MB should be considered the lowest amount of memory with which to run Windows with any kind of efficiency).
Screen Memory
Your graphics card will have its' own memory which it uses to carry out drawing functions and manipulate the screen. Like most computers - the more memory the better. For a modern machine, 4 MB should be considered the norm in order to run at higher screen resolutions.
