How to Determine RAM & Hard Drive Capacities

It is important to know certain elements of your computer hardware prior to installing software. All programs require a minimum amount of free hard drive space, as well as a minimum amount of RAM to operate. Prior to installing software, you should confirm your computer meets or exceeds its requirements.

Instructions

Windows XP

1. Click on "Start," and then on "My Computer."

2. Click on the "Local Disk C:\" icon.

3. Look at the "Details" box at the bottom of the left hand side. "Free Space" is the amount of space you have left for additional data. "Total Space" is the total maximum storage capacity of the hard drive.

4. Click on the "View System Information" link on top of the left hand side. This loads the "System Information" window.

5. Look at the bottom of the window and look for the phrase "of RAM." The number that is next to this is the total amount of RAM available to your system.

Windows Vista /Windows 7

1. Click on the "Start" button.

2. Click on the "Computer" link.

3. Look at the "Local Disk (C:)" icon. Both the maximum capacity and free space of your hard drive are listed below the icon.

4. Look at the bottom of this same page. The number next to "Memory" is the maximum amount of RAM available to your system.

References

• Microsoft: Windows XP System Information
• TopBits: How to Check Hard Drive Capacity in Windows XP

Resources

• Microsoft: 5 Ways to Speed Up Your PC