Technical - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
1.
What type of memory do I need?
2.
How do I install my new memory?
3.
Is all memory the same?
4.
How much memory do I need?
5.
Why do I need more memory?
1. What type of memory do I need?
Ahhh. The age old question. There are many types of memory and not all memory is compatible with every desktop, laptop, server, or printer.
Good News! We have done all the hard work for you. We maintain a comprehensive database of these systems and which memory modules are compatible with each system. Simply use our Memory Upgrade Tool to select the Manufacturer and Model of your system and we will provide a list of compatible memory modules along with additional information about your system.
2. How do I install my new memory?
If you are unsure how to install new memory in your system please consult your system manual.
General Installation Instructions:
- Shutdown and power off your system.
- Unplug the power cord
- Open the case (desktop & servers) or memory compartment (laptops)
- Locate the memory sockets on the motherboard
- If replacing existing memory, remove current memory module(s)
- Place your new memory module in the open socket while insuring the memory notches line up with the socket notches.
- Push your new memory module straight down (45 degree angle for laptops) until the retaining clips on both sides of the socket snap into place securing the memory in the socket.
- Replace the power cord and turn on your system to verify the new memory has been recognized.
- If the memory has been recognized replace the case cover.
- If the memory has not been recognized double check the memory has been correctly installed.
3. Is all memory the same?
There are 3 things to consider when purchasing memory. The first thing to consider is the quality of the components used in the memory module. The second is the warranty, support, and service you are purchasing along with that memory. Sure, you typically don't directly pay for a standard warranty, support, or service, but if you have a problem you will pay for it in terms of time and frustration. The third thing to consider is price.
We use only top quality components in all of our memory, so you can rest assured you will be buying quality and reliable memory.
In addition to the quality components used, we also test each memory module to ensure it will work when you install it in your system. Because of these top quality components and our rigorous memory module testing we are able to offer a Lifetime Warranty on all of our memory at no additional cost to you. We also provide Toll-Free technical support for the life of your memory to help if you ever have any problems or questions regarding your memory.
It is our goal to offer top quality components and world class service and support at outlet prices.
You might be asking yourself, "How can you offer all of this AND still offer your memory at low "outlet" prices?" Well, we have come to realize that in the Memory business there are 3 things that set you apart from the competition. Quality, Service, and Price. Some of our competitors do one or maybe two of these well, but just can't do all three because of inefficiencies, priorities, or they just don't want to. It is our commitment to our customers that we will continue to improve our efficiencies every day so we can beat our competitors in each of these key categories. We realize we are in a battle for your business every time you are looking to buy memory, and it is our hope that we can not only get your business today, but every time you are needing memory.
4. How much memory do I need?
Below is a rough guide you can use to gage your memory requirements.
| Operating System |
Minimum* |
Recommended** |
| Windows98 |
64mb |
256mb to system max |
| Windows2000 |
256mb |
512mb to system max |
| WindowsXP |
256mb |
512mb to system max |
| Windows Media Center |
512mb |
1gb to system max |
| WindowsVista |
512mb |
1gb to system max |
** Our memory recommendation is based on a user who only uses standard word processing programs. We recommend users who are looking to run multiple programs, games, or video/graphics programs install the maximum amount of memory supported by their computer. You can find this maximum amount of supported memory for your system by using our Computer Memory Upgrade Tool.
* The minimum amount of memory is typically set by the Operating System manufacturer and considers the minimum amount required to run the basic Operating System itself and not any additional programs. This minimum requirement is often very misleading and rarely acceptable by users running multiple programs at one time. This is why we recommend you install more memory than what is recommended for the Operating System.
5. Why do I need more memory?
We like to answer this question with a question.
How much is your time worth? Time is the most precious resource a person can have and we spend a lot of time working or should I say waiting on a computer. If you add up all of the time spent waiting for you computer to boot up, or load a program, or switch from one program to another I think we would be surprised to see how much of our precious time we waste and can never get back.
Adding memory can have the single largest impact on how much time is wasted waiting for the computer or printer. The more memory a computer has the faster it will be able to run the programs we need it to run.