Increasing Virtual memory

Question

I have a Dimension 8200.  My total virtual memory is 870.74 MB and my available virtual memory is usally around 550.00 MB.  I bought a game that keeps blinking out (have to start over) when I move to a new map area.  I have been told that I neem memory space of at least 600 mb to stop this from happening.  I have run the defragmentor already.  When I try to run the disk clean-up, it says 'calculating' for over 30 minutes and seems like it can't finish.  Please let me know what I can do to free up my memory.  I have removed my old games, etc. and still can't seem to get the space I need.  Thanks.

Francis Nguyen · Answer

How much physical RAM do you have? Let Windows automatically manage the swap file. I doubt the problem is caused by insufficient HD space. You may want to remove/reload the game. Search Google for the free version of JV16 registry cleaner. Run it. Also download RegscrubXP to clean up your registry. Did you try to run disc clean-up in safe mode? Did you clean up IE's temporary internet files, cookies, and history folders? Can you delete all items from your recycle bin? Let disk clean up run overnight (enable all options).

When you delete a program, are you freeing more HD space?

F.

The_Namek · Answer

Hazelwolf,
A registry subkey called Compress Old Files is causing the hang when you run disk cleanup. This is a known problem in Windows XP. You can remedy it by running Registry Editor and navigating to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Volume
Caches. When you open Volume Caches either delete the Compress Old Files key or open that key and delete its contents. Exit Registry Editor and restart the computer. Disk cleanup will now run properly.

Hazewolf · Answer

Well, that fixed my disk clean up.  I ran it, but my virtual memory is still around 540.  Does this mean that I need to buy more RAM?  I currently have 256MB PC800 RD RAM.  Any way that I can maximize the effeciency of what I have (besides the clean-up and defrag) in order to get my game to work better?  THANK YOU!!!!!

Hazewolf · Answer

I have 256MB PC800 RD RAM.  My clean-up is operational again.  I ran it and I have removed unecessary files, old programs, cookies, etc. I have also run the defrag.  Can you tell me how to let the computer 'manage' the memory for me?  Any other ideas?  Do I need to buy more RAM?  THANKS!

Hazewolf · Answer

Just found it.....trying it now.  Thanks.

Hazewolf · Answer

Thanks.  I don't mean to sound like a complete idiot, but can you tell me how to access the registry editor so that I can proceed with your suggestions?  Thanks.

FuNk_DoKta · Answer

virtual memory settings can be found by right clicking MY Computer / Properties / Advanced / Settings[Performance] /Advanced / Change[Virtual Memory] / System Managed Size.

Francis Nguyen · Answer

Once you're in the Virtual Memory screen, select System Managed Size, click OK, save and reboot. 256MB is barely sufficient to run WXP, especially if you allow WXP to launch the default configuration. I would step up to 384MB, but 512MB may be better for gamers. Unfortunately, you have those RIP-OFF Rambus modules.

Remember that a good video adapter will go a long way toward video processing.

F.

Hazewolf · Answer

Thanks.  I have a 64MB GeForce 3.  Can I just get the extra RAM at a COMP USA and install it myself?  My current system has RDRAM- do I have to worry about getting a compatible 'brand' or type?  Thanks.

Francis Nguyen · Answer

You must purchase Rambus RAM in pair. Search Google for Kingston.com. Or you could try CompUSA or Fry's (more $). My preference is Crucial but they don't sell Rambus RAM. Make sure you purchase from an outfit that guarantee compatibility.

You don't have to buy the same brand of RAM .

F.

35dnld53 · Answer

Don't yet understand your RAM problem...but was researching compatibility today...for a DVD/RW and software....USA COMP is a MICROSoft partner...so at that store you will most likely be safe....check the MicroSoft Catalog for compatibilty....businesses will show as GOLD or PLATINUM partners...

As for what I have already discovered for DVD RW..or...video writeing...you need 1GB on the hard-drive....256MB RAM...which may need 32MB FREE....

My DVD/RW hasn't even arrived yet----so----check system requirements for your Model #'s....there are Memory Sticks...CARDS....alot out there for video...

DIM.2350..Intel(R)Pentium(R)4cpu 1.80GHz
256MB-total memory
Hard-Drive=27.92GB
SOUND CARD..SoundMax Integrated Digital Audio....
PRINTER=Epson-C60
WINDOWS..XP-Home Edition
SAMSUNG CD-R/RW SW-240B
CD-ROM
keyboard-DELL(104key)
pointing device-PS/2 Compatible Mouse

Add-ONs:::LARGAN..chamelonMega..
.................digital 1.3 Megapixel camera..
electronic shutter-1/2~1/0000 sec.
16MB Flash Mem......24-bit true color
Camera=digital,PC,video and TV...
small tri-pod+optical viewfinder
DRIVER+Application(update)

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Increasing Virtual memory

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