Korean Job Discussion Forums

[T-dot]

School computer has 512 RAM.

THe computer will shut down all pages if I open up a video.

For ex. I f I open a video file (w/GOM Player) an error message pops up (I press dont send; I think thats what the error message asks), which then abruptly shuts down the player and pages.

512 should be good enough to run 2 apps at the same time. Ive already checked it for malware/virus' etc..

Is there anything else I should be looking at? Im trying to avoid using memtest and formatting for now.

[Demophobe]

[T-dot]

This is the class computer. My desk computer has the same specs, but hasnt run into any problems,

If its a RAM issue, I am considering adding another 512 (used) outta my own pocket if that'll solve the problem.

[idonojacs]

There's RAM and there's RAM.

In other words, there's real RAM, the RAM on a stick kind, and virtual RAM. The later exists on your hard drive, and imitates real RAM because Microsoft assumes you do not have enough real RAM for Windows, which is usually the case. The later is sometimes called VRAM.

You need to make sure the virtual RAM is enabled, that it set to allow enough VRAM for your needs, and that the hard drive is not so full that it blocks VRAM. Do a search in Windows help; it should take you to the settings page.

Another issue is that some video cards, or more likely video on the motherboard, shares memory with the system RAM. This could reduce your available RAM. If the school bought a cheapo computer, this might be happening, and since you are having a problem with the video, could be a real problem.

512 is about the minimum for an XP to operate efficiently. Extra RAM might help. But I would also make sure that some program isn't sucking up RAM first, like say the anti-virus program or something.

And of course, try another video player, such as VLC. Check the settings in VLC and see if there are any useful options.

AND, of course, if you are on Vista with 512 mb RAM, fagettaboutit.

[cbclark4]

How full is the disk.

Have you done any maintenance on it.

Defrag, Cleandisk, Diskcheck?

[spliff]

[T-dot]

Have done a defrag, used CCleaner/and the HD is at little less than 50% capacity.

Ill look into the VRAM thingy.

Spliff, good idea. Ill look into that too.

Thanks