77. Parts of a Computer - 2. RAM

What is RAM? Random Access Memory (RAM) is the "working memory" in a computer. RAM is volatile in that all information stored there is lost when a PC is switched off so be sure to back up your working files as you go or you may find hours of work can disappear after an electricity spike.

Additional RAM allows a computer to work with more information at the same time which can have a dramatic effect on total system performance.

The amount of RAM which can be used by your PC depends upon its configuration and Operating System. Earlier Operating Systems would only support a maximum of 2GB even though the motherboard was big enough to accept 4GB. Even Windows 8.1 will only accept 4GB in certain cases so don’t waste your money buying RAM modules if your system will not be able to use it.

RAM limits in Windows 8.1 Enterprise – 4GB on x86, 512GB on x64

RAM limits in Windows 8.1 Professional – 4GB on x86, 512GB on x64

RAM limits in Windows 8.1 – 4GB on x86, 128GB on x64

(x86 refers to 32 bit systems and x64 refers to 64 bit systems).


RAM is Also Known As:-
main memory, internal memory.


Important RAM Facts
RAM is typically referred to simply as "memory" even though other types of memory may exist inside a computer. Each motherboard supports only a certain range of memory types in certain combinations so always check with your motherboard manufacturer before making a purchase.

RAM should not be confused with storage. Most modern PCs or laptops are supplied with 4GB of RAM but will have, typically, 500GB of storage on the hard disc drive.


Popular RAM Manufacturers
Kingston, PNY, Crucial Technology, Corsair

RAM Description
A standard "module" or "stick" of desktop memory is a long, thin piece of hardware and resembles a short ruler. The bottom of the memory module has one or more notches to guide for proper installation and is lined with numerous, usually gold-plated connectors.

Memory is installed in memory module slots located on the motherboard. These slots are easily locatable by looking for the small hinges on either side that lock the memory in place. Certain sizes of modules may need to be installed in certain slots so always check with your motherboard manufacturer before purchase or installation.

Memory modules come with various storage capabilities. Modern memory modules can be purchased in 256MB, 512MB, 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB sizes.

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76. Parts of a Computer - 1. Optical Drive

What is an Optical Disc Drive?

Optical drives retrieve and/or store data on optical discs like CDs, DVDs, and BDs (Blu-ray discs) which hold much more information than classic portable media options like the floppy disk which is now virtually redundant.

The Optical Disc Drive is Also Known As optical drive, ODD (abbreviation), CD drive, DVD drive, BD drive, disc drive

Important Optical Disc Drive Facts
Most optical drives can play and/or record onto a large number of different disc formats.
Popular optical drive formats include CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, DVD-R DL, DVD+R DL, BD-R, BD-R DL & TL, BD-RE, BD-RE DL & TL, and BDXL.
Read your drive’s specifications to check compatibility.

Popular Optical Disc Drive Manufacturers
LG, Memorex, NEC

Optical Disc Drive Description
An optical drive is a piece of computer hardware about the size of a thick soft cover book. The front of the drive has a small Open/Close button that ejects and retracts the drive bay door. This is how media like CDs, DVDs, and BDs are inserted into and removed from the drive. The tray can be motorized (as on desktop PCs) or may just pop out partly (like on a Laptop.)

Internal drives are mounted inside the PC case, external drives come with their own case and are usually connected via USB ports. They are usually powered from the USB port.

The sides of the internal optical drive have pre-drilled, threaded holes for easy mounting in the 5.25 inch drive bay in the computer case. The optical drive is mounted so the end with the connections faces inside the computer and the end with the drive bay faces outside.

The back end of the internal optical drive contains a port for a cable that connects to the motherboard. The type of cable used will depend on the type of drive but is almost always included with an optical drive purchase. Also here is a connection for power from the power supply.

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