The power of a stationary PC or laptop is calculated by the presence of certain components, including a processor, a video card and RAM. As a rule, the most productive systems are taken for engineering work (3D-modeling, work with video editing, etc.) or demanding games. What is the difference between a laptop RAM and a similar one designed for a PC? How to replace it? What's the price? Which is better - RAM for laptop DDR3 or DDR2? More on this later.
What is RAM?
Random access memory (RAM, RAM, RAM) is designed to store executable machine codes (programs) during the operation of devices. In addition, it also stores intermediate and output information that is processed by the processor. In appearance, it is a volatile bar that is installed on the motherboard.
Data exchange between the chipset and RAM can occur in three ways:
- Direct exchange.
- Using ultrafast memory of the 0th level - register in ALU.
- If there is a hardware cache of the processor, then the exchange can be made through it (cache).
Those data streams that are contained in modern semiconductor RAM are saved only when there is a voltage supply. Otherwise, the device simply does not work. Even with a short-term power outage to the RAM, all stored information in it is either distorted or completely destroyed.
RAM connection to the hard drive
Most modern motherboards available on the market have energy-efficient modes of operation. This allows you to put your PC or laptop in sleep mode, when electricity consumption is reduced to a minimum. Otherwise, this mode is called hibernation. During this process, the power to the memory is turned off, after which, in order to save all the information contained in RAM, the operating system automatically writes data to a hard disk or other device for recording and storing data (for example, SSD).
Type and amount of RAM
If you want to replace the RAM strips or increase its volume, you need to find out about its most important characteristics. First of all, we will talk about the amount of RAM. The performance of a PC or laptop largely depends on this indicator, and the more it is, the better. In stores you can find strips of various sizes: 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 GB, etc. However, it’s worth to clarify that each motherboard can only interact with a limited amount of memory. Typically, the spread is from 8 to 64 GB.
Equally important is the generation of memory (DDR). The story is exactly the same - the higher the number, the better. Most current PCs and laptops have DDR3 and DDR4 slats installed. On models 8-10 years old, DDR2 can also be installed. What is characteristic, the older memory for the DDR2 laptop is now more expensive than its older counterparts, because they are available in strictly limited editions.
Finally, the last important data in RAM is frequency and bandwidth. The first is calculated in megahertz. Again, the higher the frequency, the better performance your device will have, because the data transfer speed increases significantly. The same can be said about the bandwidth, which is calculated in Mb / s.
RAM for laptops and netbooks
The lion's share of modern laptops, netbooks and other portable devices use DDR type RAM with the SODIMM form factor. The only difference between these strips from those that are installed in the PC, is the appearance. The essence of RAM at the same time remains the same. Of course, the straps are not interchangeable, that is, the RAM for laptops is not suitable for a desktop computer and vice versa.
Memory replacement
At some time, the moment always comes when the owner of the laptop wants to increase the amount of RAM. As a rule, this is due to the increase in the voracity of most modern programs and video games, especially with the open world. It happens that the RAM fails, requiring an urgent replacement. Next, we will tell you how the RAM for the laptop should be replaced.
First of all, it is worth determining what maximum amount is possible for installation in a laptop, as well as the type of memory. As a rule, this should be indicated in the characteristics of the device. Finally, if you add a new bar, it should be identical to the one already installed in the laptop.
In most devices, the laptop RAM is located at the bottom under the cover. By unscrewing a few screws, you can directly access the RAM slats. You can remove the memory modules by opening the two latches holding the RAM. After that, the memory will be in a position equal to about 30 degrees to the motherboard. Replacing the slats or putting one additional (slots, as a rule, 2), you need to slightly push the memory in the direction of the motherboard until it reaches a parallel position. Having clicked the clamps, you can screw the bolts and the cover back, and then turn on the laptop.
Laptop RAM: price
There are many computer hardware stores where you can buy memory. In addition, you can also make a purchase online. RAM for laptop DDR3 is the most common in our time, having the greatest demand. Prices range from 2 to 20 thousand rubles, depending on the volume and frequency. An equally important factor is the brand under which the trims are produced.
Another fact is that on mid-budget models, 4 GB of RAM is installed on the laptop. This device is one in which you can not replace the processor or video card, but expanding the RAM will not be a big deal. Given that they have a small screen resolution, 8 GB even for demanding games will be enough. The same goes for engineering. Finally, we note that if you have memory for a DDR2 laptop, then you will not see high performance, because the power of such RAM is simply not enough for modern games and programs.