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 Why Is My Computer Not Responding?

Have you ever had an issue with a program “not responding” or it seems that your computer is locked up?  Well, I have and this week I helped a friend resolve this issue.  The most likely cause of this problem is the RAM on your computer.  

RAM stands for Random Access Memory. It is a type of computer memory that allows data to be accessed randomly, which means that any piece of data in RAM can be accessed without touching the preceding data. RAM is a temporary storage location that holds data and instructions that the computer's central processing unit (CPU) needs to access quickly while it is actively running programs or tasks.

Here are some key points about RAM:

1. **Volatile Memory**: RAM is volatile, which means its contents are lost when the computer is turned off. This is in contrast to non-volatile memory like hard drives or SSDs, which retain data even when power is removed.

2. **Speed**: RAM is much faster than permanent storage options like hard drives or SSDs. This fast access speed allows the CPU to quickly retrieve data and execute instructions, which significantly improves overall system performance.

3. **Multitasking**: RAM plays a crucial role in multitasking. When you have multiple applications open simultaneously, the data and instructions for these applications are stored in RAM, allowing the CPU to switch between tasks efficiently.

4. **Capacity**: RAM capacity is typically measured in gigabytes (GB). The more RAM a computer has, the more data it can store and access quickly, which leads to better performance, especially when running memory-intensive applications or large files.

5. **Types**: There are various types of RAM, with DDR4 (Double Data Rate 4) being a common type used in modern computers. Each new generation of DDR RAM offers increased speed and efficiency compared to its predecessor.

6. **RAM Modules**: RAM is installed in the computer's motherboard in the form of modules. These modules come in different sizes and configurations, such as DIMMs (Dual In-Line Memory Modules) for desktops and SO-DIMMs (Small Outline Dual In-Line Memory Modules) for laptops and smaller devices.

7. **Page File / Swap Space**: When the available RAM is insufficient to hold all the data and programs currently in use, the operating system uses a portion of the hard drive as virtual memory, known as the page file (Windows) or swap space (Linux/macOS), to temporarily store data that would otherwise reside in RAM.

All of that is just to say that RAM is a critical component of a computer that enables quick access to data and instructions, facilitating smooth multitasking and overall system performance. Having an adequate amount of RAM is essential for running demanding applications, such as video editing software, games, or virtual machines, effectively.

So, if you find that your computer seems to be locked up or your programs are not responding to your commands, then you have probably overused your RAM.  To fix this problem, you simply need to close out some tabs you have open on the internet or close some of the programs you have open and then be patient.  It may take the computer some time to “catch up” and have free RAM to complete the task you need done.  

Sometimes this does not fix the problem and this can be devastating especially if you have worked on a document without saving your work periodically.  (It’s always a good idea to save your work when working on a large project.)  Many programs do have a recovery system for unsaved work, but if the RAM did not have any available memory then your work may not be saved in those recovery programs.  

I hope this information will help you save your data in the future.  Just remember not to have too many webpages or programs open at one time when you need to save new data on a document.