CHECK RAM SPEED

RAM or Random Access Memory modules are considered as types of data storage media which make use of IC (Integrated Circuits) which allows data to be retrieved randomly (hence the name RAM) within a constant time without regard for the physically allocated space within the memory address. Compared with other data storage media like optical discs, tapes, and magnetic discs, RAM rely less on physical movement for recording and storing of data as well as reading of information unlike its counterparts which make use of physical reading heads that make them access data relatively slower. This is why RAM plays such an important role in any computer system because they act as temporary storage space for frequently used information especially those required by the Operating System and other actively running programs. Aside from its speed, RAM also experience less wear due to lack of physical movement of its parts therefore resulting in a longer product life.

Materials Needed:

-           Internet connection

-           Web browser

-           RAM module utility

Step 1

There are varying RAM speeds in the market and the compatibility depends primarily on the capacity of the memory slot of the motherboard, one of the ways to check on the speed of the RAM module installed in computer system is to access the BIOS settings.

Step 2

Accessing the BIOS settings would depend on the type of machine and the underlying BIOS that was programmed into the motherboard. Check your manufacturer's documentation on how to access your BIOS settings.

Step 3

Aside from the BIOS settings, computer systems running under the Microsoft Windows Operating System platform have the option of running utilities that test the actual speed of the RAM in real time. Launch your Web browser and search for either CPU-Z or Everest (Lavasys).

Step 4

Navigate to the website of either tool, download and install them into your system. Once completely installed, execute the program. CPU-Z will open a window. Click on the Memory tab to see the relevant information.

Step 5

For Everest, execute the program. Click on the + sign at the Computer section and choose the Overclock option. Scroll down to the Memory Bus Speed and take note of its value.

Step 6

Go to the SPD Memory Modules and choose your memory from that portion. This together with the Memory Bus Speed determines the actual speed of your RAM.

Step 7

For computer systems running under the Linux Operating System platform, the biosdecode tool can be used. Download, install, and run this command line tool on your machine.

Step 8

Open a shell prompt on your Linux-based computer and type in the command sudo dmidecode -type 17. You can also use the command sudo dmidecode --type 17 | more. This will dump the DMI contents of the computer into a human readable table.