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RAM for beginners: How do I know if my Mac needs more RAM? by James Anderson
Maximizing your Mac’s RAM can prove to be the best upgrade you’ll ever make. Multi-tasking is improved dramatically and processing times for memory intensive software (think photoshop or final cut) are reduced significantly. The end result is a higher level of overall productivity, unless of course you’re gaming, although RAM helps here too.
Here’s an easy way to find out how much RAM your computer is using and if you would benefit from more:
Open your Activity Monitor (it should be in your Utilities folder). Click on the System Memory tab. If the pie chart is mostly green and blue (representing free and inactive memory, respectively), then you’re in good shape. If the chart is mostly yellow and red (active and wired), then you’re running out of RAM and may experience problems. Try opening your activity monitor while conducting different activities. For example, you’ll probably have RAM to spare if you’re only checking email, but rendering video will probably reveal a different result.
What kind of RAM should I get?
Don’t be overly concerned with the brand name of RAM you choose. Apple usually buys Samsung, Hynix and Micron RAM modules in bulk. There is nothing special about Apple branded memory (on top of that, Apple’s mark-up is outrageous). Any brand of RAM should do- just make sure it fits the specs of your system. Also, consider the warranty offered some offer 1 year while others offer a lifetime warranty- the choice should be obvious.
Some tips:
Any modern mac computer will have at least two memory slots. Although the brand name of RAM isn’t altogether very important, some issues can arise if you mix brands (eg. run one Samsung and one Micron). It is strongly advised that you not do this.
The variations of RAM can be intimidating for the unfamiliar. The most important thing to remember is this: If you computer calls for DDR2, then use it and nothing else. DDR3 will not speed up your computer- it simply won’t work. Do not mix up your DDR’s under any circumstances.
Generally speaking, the RAM that you purchase for your mac will have the ability to “downclock”. For example, a 1333Mhz RAM module will run in a laptop which is designed for 1066Mhz. Doing this has both benefits and drawbacks. The major benefit of doing this is cost. Like any other commodity, scarcity can result in price increases. It may be difficult to find 1066Mhz RAM, as it is seldom used anymore (and the price has therefore increased). In this case it may be advisable to purchase 1333mhz RAM instead.
It should be noted however that doing this may overheat you computer, especially older macbooks. Additionally, if your mac contains a “Penryn” processor (2008, 2009), it is advisable that you use only the exact RAM speed specified by Apple- some issues have been reported.
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About the Author
If you are looking for Mac upgrades, accessories or replacement parts please visit http://www.macmodify.com/
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