I could re-explain it, but Negrita has already written a pretty good article on VMware, check it out here.

It allows you to run a virtual computer inside of another computer (ex. a 'host' XP Pro system, with a 'guest' (virtual) Fedora system inside of it).

I have an 80GB harddrive, but only 256mb of RAM...i need to upgrade soon.

Lol. I don't order out for pizza much anyway. I work part-time as maintenance at a friends company (and I get to fix his computer problems...I installed Linux and he loves it). But my rate of pay is...low. I don't know RAM brands very well, can I get some suggestions as to what is best? I just bought a customized HP Pavilion a1410y, it has a Lightscribe DVD/CD +/- RW, a 3.333GHz Celeron D (I was hoping for AMD, but oh well...), 256mb of RAM, and that is about it. I don't know but assume it is a 128 pin DDR2 SDRAM (I don't know what PC number...)

Kevan, there are two ways to upgrade RAM, speed and size. First, you need to figure out if you're using DDR or DDR2. This is as simple as opening the case and taking the RAM out (make sure you power down first of course). There should be a label on the memory stick telling you what type of RAM it is. If not, check the board as that may also have the slots labeled as DDR or DDR2. You'll also want to check to see how much (size) your board can hold as well as the maximum speed supported (this should hopefully be with the manual; if not, contact the manufacturer).

Once you've determined the type, your capacity, and speed supported, you can start shopping. When looking around, as I've mentioned, you can buy speed or size. The size (in your current example, is 256Mb) and the speed is typically 266-550 Mhz (DDR) and 400-1200 Mhz(DDR2). I don't think your current RAM would be 128 DDR2, as DDR2 is normally 240. DDR is usually 184 I believe. Obviously the more and faster you go, the higher your price goes. If you're looking to only run one additional virtual machine, I would recommend you double to 512Mb at a minimum, preferably to 1Gb if you can afford it.

Hope that helps.

- V

According to that, you have 2 slots available. They can hold a maximum of 1Gb DDR2 (2x512) memory. Since you currently have 1x256, I would recommend that you either buy a second 256, or by 2x512 and max your machine out at the 1Gb.

As for the speed, from that list it doesn't show (or that I see) anything. Like I said, the easiest way is to open your computer, pull out the memory module and look on the sticker on the side. It'll either say something like 400, or PC2 3200.

Alright, so you need 240-pin DDR2 4200 (533Mhz) memory.

What are your thoughts on this?
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductReview.aspx?Item=N82E16820144148

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