Need recommended Memory settings for new added ram.?

Question

Hi, I am currently using an HP 716n PC with Windows XP SP2 on it. I had a total amount of 512mb of ram installed. I purchased and added 1gb of memory (2x512mb sticks) to the 2x256mb and have a total of 1512mb installed.

It recognizes the added memory but doesn't really add much only 256 mb added (to the 512mb) for recommended use. I want to be able to maximize the settings where it won't hurt the pc and I won't have any slowdowns if using a lot of programs.

These are the current settings in system properties/memory/virtual memory:

Visual Effects - Let windows choose what's best for my computer.

Memory Usage - Programs (System Cache is also selectable)

Virtual Memory size: 756mb (I have 1512mb available)

If anyone can help recommend settings that would be for best performance utilizing the 1512mb that I have I would really appreciate it. Thanks in advance.

I checked the properties of My Computer and it does recognize the 1.49gb of ram installed. Could you elaborate more on how the pc uses the memory. I checked the recommended amount (756mb) but I don't know if it says that it 'Recommends' it or is currently using that amount.

The reason I want the best performance out of the 1512 mb is because if it's only using 756mb of ram, then that wouldn't be enough (for me at least) as using just the 512mb that was on before adding 1gb of ram it would slow down a lot after having several programs & web pages/browsers in use.

Answer 1

Your RAM is now more than enough for XP. You would hardly utilize slow virtual memory. Just leave it for Win XP to manage it automatically.

Answer 2

Your virtual memory is space allocated on the hard drive to make up for not having enough physical memory. That doesnt mean you are using 756 Mb of your physical memory You cant allocate how much physical memory it uses. Right click on my computer scroll to properties, on the general tab it will tell you how much physical memory you have. I would just make sure its sees all the memory you put in then the 756Mb of virtual memory is enough.