How to use an SD Flash Card as RAM

SD means "Secure Digital" and is a memory format used in digital cameras.

If an SD card port is available on your Windows Vista or Windows 7 PC, you can take advantage of Microsoft's "ReadyBoost" feature, designed to increase the performance of Windows without the need to physically open your PC and install more RAM (Random Access Memory). ReadyBoost can be customized to use the entirety of the SD card or even just a portion of it to improve your PC's functionality. The larger the storage capacity of the card, the greater the results will be.

Instructions

1. Slide the SD card into your computer's SD card slot and press it in firmly until it clicks. When it clicks, it means the card has locked into place.

2. Click the Windows logo icon on the desktop taskbar to display the Start menu.

3. Choose "Computer" from the right column of the Start menu.

4. Right-click the SD card's icon as it appears in the Computer menu and choose "Properties."

5. Click the "ReadyBoost" tab. Choose "Use this device" to enable the SD card for Windows ReadyBoost.

6. Click and move the slider bar to adjust how much space will be set aside on the device for Windows ReadyBoost.

7. Click "Apply" and select "OK" to confirm the changes and close the Properties window.

Tips & Warnings

• Windows ReadyBoost works with USB flash memory cards and Memory Stick format cards as well.

• Windows 7 users can choose to dedicate the device to ReadyBoost, allowing the entirety of the SD card's available space to be used in boosting your PC's performance.

References

• Microsoft: Performance - Windows Vista Features
• Microsoft: Explore the Features: Windows ReadyBoost