Member Avatar for chound

Mother Board: Intel 845
Processor: Intel Celeron 2.4 ghz
I'm thinking of increasing RAM to 1.024 gb of ram from 128 mb. Will the computer speed up? The memory I use normally comes to 180 when seen in task manager.
Is it better that I buy 256mb ram and is 1gb of ram useless?

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Short answer for : yes — moving off 128 MB will make a big difference. As and pointed out, the system is likely spending a lot of time paging to disk when Task Manager shows ~180 MB used on a machine with only 128 MB installed; that disk-based virtual memory is much slower than RAM and is the common cause of the sluggish behavior you describe. (techtarget.com)

Confirm the exact memory type and limits before buying. “Intel 845” covers several Brookdale variants: some motherboards use PC133 SDRAM, others accept DDR200/DDR266 (and certain 845G/PE variants can handle DDR333); supported maximums depend on the specific board — many 845-era boards top out around ~2 GB, but check your board model/manual or the DIMM labels to be sure. (intel.com)

Buying guidance: if budget is tight, a move to 512 MB gives the best immediate improvement from 128 MB. If you run games, image/video apps, or like many simultaneous programs, 1 GB is a sensible upgrade and not wasted. Prefer matched modules (same size/speed/manufacturer) for stability; do not mix SDR and DDR or ECC with non‑ECC modules, and be aware mixed speeds will run at the slowest module’s rate.

Quick install and verification checklist: power down and observe anti‑static precautions, seat DIMMs firmly, then confirm the BIOS/POST reports the new total. Use CPU‑Z inside Windows to read SPD/module type and speed. After install, run a full bootable MemTest86/MemTest86+ pass to confirm there are no errors (bad DIMMs or bad slots can still cause slow/unstable systems). If the machine remains slow after adding RAM, check for heavy background services or a failing/fragmented hard drive causing pagefile thrashing. (cpuid.com)

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Member Avatar for moderate_rock48

I would go with the 1gb of memory. You would definitely see a performance increase, and having the 1gb of memory can give you a little cushion for future software you might add.

Member Avatar for belama

moderate_rock48 is right,

that would make a HUGE difference. When I had 512mb of ram and playing Ureal Tournament 2005, the level that takes place in space with ships loaded in over 30 seconds. Since I added an additional 512 mb module the loading time is under 15 seconds.

1024 mb ram is not useless but if you are someone that only surfs the net and plays card games you might not need it. I dont think its the case for you though.

Maybe you should start with 512mb or around that. After a little while, if you think you could use more just add more. The prices might also drop a bit during that time. :)

By the way, what kind of ram do you have??

Member Avatar for Phaelax

2.4GHz with only 128mb ram? My god man, what were you thinking?!

Today, 1gb is probably standard, or close to it.

Member Avatar for belama

2.4GHz with only 128mb ram? My god man, what were you thinking?!

Today, 1gb is probably standard, or close to it.

every decent systems on sale today have at least 512mb or 1gb of ram

Member Avatar for moderate_rock48

haha, im still running 384mb of ram on my 5 year old HP, uhg its frustrating...But not to worry im building my own new and improved computer in a little while! ;)

Member Avatar for belama

It'll be about time!! lol I should shut up cuz 6 years ago I had a 486 66mhz with 32mb ram. I then jumped to a P4 1.5ghz 256mb ram and now I have a 3ghz. Looking at that trend, it looks like im going to have a 4.5ghz next :D .... or maybe not.

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