How to Buy RAM for Desktops

Random Access Memory (RAM) refers to the memory space available on your computer. You can increase the RAM of your machine to enhance its efficiency, depending on your need. Here is how to buy RAM for desktops.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Assess your need for memory space. You can do so by checking the current RAM size and evaluate the space needed for any new applications that you plan to install. If you plan to run multimedia programs, you will need a higher RAM.

2. Decide the size of RAM you want to buy. Remember that sizes ranging from 256 MB to 2 GB are sufficient for desktops.

3. Understand the memory types and processing speed. The latest types of RAMs can be classified in two basic categories, DDR (Double Data Rate) and DDR2. These have a faster processing speed than the older version of RAM module, SDRAM (Single Data Rate Access Memory). Remember that the bigger RAM size results in better processing speed.

4. Plan you budget before buying the RAM.

5. Browse through online reviews and buyers guides'. Some popular buyers’ guides are NexTag, Windows Marketplace, MySimon and Epinions (see links below).

6. Browse through blogs and tech discussion forums. These are good avenues for gathering more information on features, trends and other insights on RAM for desktops.

7. Buy RAM for desktops after comparing prices in different stores, online and offline. Search for online vendors using search engines like Google or Yahoo. Browse through popular online stores such as CompUSA, Best Buy and Circuit City (see links below).

8. Select the best RAM for Desktops that suits your requirement and budget.

9. Decide the payment options. You can either pay by credit card or PayPal. Confirm with the vendor before purchase.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the warranty, date of manufacture and return policy before buying. Note that the warranty period mostly starts from the date of manufacture and not the date of sale.