HP Computer RAM 1 GB Capacity per Module

HP 1GB Computer Memory Buying Guide

In addition to its many computer products, HP has manufactured memory hardware for years, meaning that there are multiple models and products to choose from in the 1GB size. While it might seem easy to choose the right type of memory for your computer, the market is full of numbers and abbreviations that can confuse even the most veteran buyer. This information can help you choose the right memory stick for your device to improve performance.

When looking at memory for your HP or other computer, you will often notice the terms speed and latency being brought up. While the two are related to how well the memory performs in your system, they are two different factors. Latency is a measurement of how long it takes for a command to reach the hardware and for it to respond. Better latency means that the command is registered quickly and the computer goes about processing the data. Speed is a measurement of how quickly those commands run through the hardware and how long it will take for the command to be processed.

There are several varieties of memory that you can use for HP computers that look the same to the naked eye but function very differently once they are connected to your system. A few of the common types are:

• SDRAM: Standing for synchronous dynamic random-access memory, SDRAM is a type of memory that falls in line with the clock cycles of your device's central processing unit (CPU), waiting for the CPU before responding to data inputs. This allows your computer to perform parallel processing so that data is processed as quickly as possible.
• DDR SDRAM: DDR stands for double data rate. This type of memory requires more connectors, but it can work on two read and write processes simultaneously.
• GDDR SDRAM: The GDDR here stands for graphics double data rate. This is similar in function to DDR SDRAM, but it works more in conjunction with the graphics processing unit (GPU) for graphical processing with videos games and animation programs.

RAM comes in two standard sizes for different systems and motherboards, including those made by HP. The full-sized unit is called dual in-line memory module (DIMM). This type of hardware is most often used with desktops, servers, and some video game consoles. The smaller size is small outline DIMM (SO-DIMM). This type is most commonly used with laptops. Despite the size difference, they both function at relatively similar levels, so there's no advantage in choosing one over the other in terms of speed.

You must choose the right size for your computer's form factor and motherboard. You cannot place one in the other's drive because it will not fit or function properly. If you are having a hard time knowing what type your computer needs, just remember that SO-DIMM is about 2.6 inches long and DIMM is about 5.5 inches long.