Cheap Computer Memory / RAM

The short answer is probably not. DDR RAM modules won't fit in standard SDRAM DIMM slots, so you can't plug DDR into an older motherboard and make it twice as fast. In fact, right now only half of the motherboards and systems will take DDR RAM modules.

However, computers and laptops purchased in the last year stand a good chance of having a motherboard that uses DDR memory.

The Benefits of More RAM

Many people today still do not see the full benefits of system RAM. Generally people would think that video RAM is enough but adding more system RAM is still a key performance feature to getting those demanding games to run, especially with Windows XP. The more system RAM you have the more space your programs have to load and the less your CPU and hard drive have to work.

Of course all system RAM does is store information and keeps temporary data available for the CPU to quickly load. Because RAM is faster than your hard drive access time games will generally load faster. This is of course taking into consideration that the data of the game has already been stored in the available memory. The more memory you have the less your computer will have to work and the faster your games or applications will run.

DDR RAM and Windows XP

When using Windows XP you have to take into consideration the amount of system RAM that the operating system will need to use.

Generally 512MB of DDR memory would be more than enough for running every day tasks and 3D applications although the more demanding PC user might start thinking about having at least 1GB of available memory. With the Windows XP operating system requiring more RAM to run smoothly and with the current low prices of DDR RAM this is the best time to get an upgrade for your system.