Question:
I am new in the computer field I would like to know what the purpose of RAM in a computer is and what impact does the different size of RAM have on its performance and memory?
Is it Different from the CPU?

My Answer:
Yes, RAM and CPU are two different things.

RAM is Random Access Memory.
CPU is Central Processing Unit.


RAM

RAM can be consider as the short term memory of your computer. When a program runs, it takes up memory. That memory is RAM. When you open a program, the program will use some of your RAM. You get your RAM back when you close the program. Also, because RAM is the volatile type of memory, so when you shut down your computer, all memories in RAM would be gone.

The more RAM you have, the more programs you can run at once. For average users, 1GB of RAM is enough--2GB is great. My computer has 4GB of RAM and I've never use any more than 2.5GB. With 4GB of RAM, you probably can run like 30 programs at once, besides the services of Windows, hahaha.

For more information on RAM, go to: http://www.howstuffworks.com/ram.htm


CPU

CPU can be consider as the brain of your computer. It processes all kind of data on your computer. When you open a program, close a program, save a file, install a program, load a webpage, etc., all those information are processed by the CPU. Typically, a CPU process data by the following steps: fetch, decode, execute, and writeback.

Some CPU has single core, others have dual cores, triple cores, or quad cores. If you are a multi-tasker (one who does many things at once), then you want a computer with dual cores or more.

For more information on CPU, go to: http://computer.howstuffworks.com/microprocessor.htm


RAM and CPU

RAM provides space for your computer to read and write data to be accessed by the CPU. If you add more RAM to your computer, you reduce the number of times your CPU must read data from your hard disk. This usually allows your computer to work faster because RAM is a lot faster than hard disks.


Also, please note that RAM and CPU are NOT the only components that determine the speed of your computer. The speed of your computer is determine by its SLOWEST COMPONENT.

There are many parts in a computer, and the main factors that determine the speed of the computer include:
Processor Speed
Processor Instructions Set
Bus Width or Path
Bus Speed
Chipset
Cache Memory
System Memory Speed
System Memory Amount
Operating System
How full the Hard Drive is
Fragmented Hard Drive
The Number of Programs and Utilities that Automatically Startup

You don't have to worry about these if you are buying a new computer. But if you are planning to upgrade your old computer, then these are important.


Hope this helps,
Ng2491 :-)

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