How to Calculate Physical Memory

Physical memory is used to quickly recall data.

Every computer has a certain amount of installed RAM. This allows the computer to store data to be recalled quickly for improved performance. However, each computer can only recognize so much memory. The memory that gets recognized is called physical memory. The amount of physical memory a computer has is determined by how much is installed. However, due to the nature of computer memory, the amount of memory present is always changing, so it is possible to calculate only approximations.

Instructions

1. Turn on the computer and right-click "My Computer."

2. Select "Properties." This will bring up the system hardware information. Toward the bottom will be the amount of installed RAM.

3. Use the Super Speed table in the Resources link to calculate physical memory. Up to 250MB of RAM will use 30 to 50 percent of the RAM, 320MB to 2GB will use 60 to 70 percent of the RAM and above 2GB will use 80 to 90 percent of the RAM.

References

• Super Speed - How to Calculate Maximum Available Physical Memory

Resources

• Super Speed - How to Calculate Maximum Available Physical Memory