UNSOLVED
R
Realitybyte
4 Posts
0
1773
September 14th, 2004 16:00
Help-Virtual memory/page memory
Sorry If I'm on the wrong board, but really need some help,
Hi, I new to all this tech stuff, but my problem is I am purchasing the Sims 2 game for my daughter, and wanted to make sure my fairly new computer was capable of handeling this game. From what I've been reading around the web, this could be an issue, so I go to a website that checks your computer for compliance with the game specs, and in every case but the virtual memory/page memory issue my computer was okay. What can I do if anything about this so that the game will work. Below I have made a text file of the findings and specs of my system, any replies need to be explained in detail, since I would be considered a nob as some would refer to us.
Thanks,
Dell 4600
CPU: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz
FREQUENCY: 2792 MHz
***************************************************
RAM: 254 MB
VIRTUEL MEMORY: 2048 MB
PAGE MEMORY: 623 MB
***************************************************
VIDEO CARD: Intel(R) 82865G Graphics Controller
MEMORY : 96 MB
SCREEN SIZE : 1024 X 768
REFRESH RATE: 60 Hz
RESOLUTION : 32 Bits
DRIVERS VERSION: 6.14.0010.3762
3D COMPATIBLE : Yes
***************************************************
OS : Windows XP
OTHER: Service Pack 1
***************************************************
DIRECTX VERSION : 9.0b
247
0
Posted September 14th, 2004 16:00
The two problems I see are your RAM, and your video card.
While the minimum system specs for the Sims 2 state that 256 MB of RAM is adequate, you should still consider upgrading to at least 512 MB of RAM. With only 256 MB of RAM your computer could become unstable when using programs that require intense processing and graphics power as many new games, such as the Sims 2, require. Also, if you like to multi-task, or have multiple programs open at once (example: anti-virus software, AIM/AOL, firewall, misc background tasks, the Sims 2), it is very helpful to have alot of RAM to support them.
Regarding your video card, it appears that you don't even have one. It looks like you are using the onboard graphics controller that is included with your motherboard. This MAY work for some games, but you will never be able to experience the game the way the designers intended. Upgrading to a new video card is important not only to make sure that the game LOOKS as good as it should, but also to make sure that you have enough video memory so that the game doesnt crash. The more things going on at once in a game, the more video memory you need to have. Electronic Arts recommends an ATi Radeon 9800 or an Nvideo Geforce 4 for best gameplay.
Memory is fairly cheap, but the video card will not be.
Also, make sure you have at least 3.5 Gigs of free hard drive space for which to install the game on.
247
0
Posted September 14th, 2004 17:00
THANKS, sounds like she won' be playing the game tomorrow.
Strobe32
9 Posts
247
0
Posted September 14th, 2004 16:00
Oh btw, the word you were looking for was "nub" or "newbie" or "noob", not "nob". =)
Sorry for multiple posts, but unfortunately there is no edit button!