How to Buy RAM for Your PowerMac

Random Access Memory, popularly called RAM, is the memory used by applications when they are running on your computer. The more RAM, the faster the applications operate. If you are working with graphics and the applications run slowly, buying more RAM is the solution. Here’s how to buy RAM for your PowerMac:

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• PowerMac

Choosing the Right RAM

1. Check the configuration of your PowerMac. Refer to the manual that has come with package.

2. Consider the applications that you are using. If you use multimedia applications frequently, you need more RAM. Determine the size of RAM that you want based on applications you intend to use.

3. Make sure that the RAM you choose is compatible with your computer. Choosing RAM of the same make is ideal for your PowerMac.

4. Consider the RAM size and processor. For example, a processor of 1.8 GHz will support a 512 MB RAM whereas 1 GB RAM is considered good for 2.3 GHz processor. The maximum RAM capacity available for a PowerMac is 16 GB.

5. Check the number of slots available in your PowerMac. Depending upon the model, either four or eight slots are available.

6. Go online and search the products and brands using Google or Yahoo. Search the Internet using the phrase, "buying RAM for PowerMac." The search results will show a number of companies that provide suitable RAM for the PowerMac. Ideally, visit the manufacturer’s Web site. You will get the appropriate RAM specifications and guidance.

Purchasing RAM

7. Plan you budget.

8. Compare the prices of different brands offering similar RAM type and size. Check out online buyers’ guides such as Epinions, Nextag and MySimon (see links, below). These sites offer a comparison of various RAM chips and list numerous vendors along with their listed prices.

9. Buy RAM from retailers such as Circuit City or Best Buy (see links, below). You can also visit any of these stores and learn more about your options.

10. Talk to the store’s technical expert or customer service and buy the best RAM chip that suits your computer.

11. Choose a payment method. When buying online, you will most likely have to pay by credit card or through PayPal (see link, below). Verify the authenticity of the Web site before purchasing online. Look for the "lock" symbol in the status bar and if you roll your mouse pointer over it, it should state, "128 bit encryption."

Tips & Warnings

• Check the manufacturing date when buying. Remember the warranty period most likely starts from the manufacturing date.
• Do not choose a RAM configuration that is too high. Select the RAM that is slightly higher than your current RAM.