Buying a Notebook Computer Memory
As mentioned before, every Notebook computer today will allow you to expand the RAM capacity. This is only possible since they have now started using memory modules like the desktops, though it might be in an entirely different form. So, the memory modules that are used on Notebooks cannot be used in desktops, and vice versa.
Indeed it is true that the more memory in a Notebook system, the better it will be for the system. However, there are certain concerns when it comes to the memory in Notebooks. More so than any other system, Notebooks are generally more restricted when it comes to the amount of memory being installed into the system. Sometimes, accessing this memory can be problematic, especially if you plan on upgrading your computer in the future.
Nowadays, most of the modern computer systems have started using the DDR2 memory specification, but a few Notebooks are still on the older DDR specification. However, within no time at all you'll find a number of systems using the DDR3 as well!
While Making the Purchase
Apart from the type of memory that is being installed into the system, another very important factor to consider before buying a Notebook computer memory is the speed of this memory - it goes a long way in improving the performance of the computer. When comparing different systems, make sure you look for the type of memory and the speed of memory that the system is using.
Memory speeds are designated in two common ways. The first method is by determining the memory type and the clock rating. The second method is by determining the type of memory and its bandwidth. Memory restriction is another very important factor to consider. Most systems have two main slots that are available for memory modules, as compared to four or more slots in desktops. This would mean there is of course a very limited amount of memory available in the system. However, with the modern-day cutting edge memory module technology, this memory restriction is about two gigabytes of RAM in Notebooks for 1GB modules. Some portable systems and even ultra-portables come replete with a single memory size that cannot be changed. So, what are the most important features to look for in your Notebook's memory?
First and foremost, always ask about the memory and what its maximum amount is. This amount will generally be listed by the manufacturers of the system. In doing so, you will get a clearer idea of what the system's upgrade potential is. Your next step should be to determine what the memory configuration when buying the system. For instance, a Notebook with a 1GB memory can be configured in two ways - as a single 1GB module or perhaps two 512MB modules. The single module will make for a better upgrade potential, since by adding another module you will be gaining more in terms of memory without really sacrificing your current memory. However, upgrading a two-module system with a single 512MB upgrade would eventually lead to the loss of a single 256MB that results in a memory of only 786MB.
With so many different varieties and types of memory available in the market today, it is extremely important to choose a memory that is absolutely compatible with your system. Memory is indeed very delicate, so it must always be handled with care.
Follow these useful tips and you should have no problems with your system, and always remember that the better the memory, the better will be the performance of your system!
