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Memory - how much do you really need?
I've mentioned before that digital image files takes up lots of memory, but how much memory do you really need? Well, it really depends on your scanning needs and the software you're using. Here are some ball-park figures (assuming you're using Photoshop 5.0 and running Windows 98):
| Image Editing Tasks | Amount of System Memory Recommended |
| 75 dpi scans up to letter size (11 x 8 inches) | minimum of 32 MB RAM for adequate performance. No more than one program should be running at the same time |
| Photo compositing, running memory intensive Photoshop filters. Image resolution is 75 dpi | At least 64 MB of system RAM recommended. No more than one program should be running at the same time. |
| 300 dpi scans up to letter size (11 x 8 inches) Photo compositing, special effects, running memory intensive Photoshop filters. Working with more than one 300 dpi image at a time |
128 MB or more of system RAM recommended. |
Once system memory is used up, Windows begins to use its swap file in the hard drive as Virtual Memory. Virtual Memory is sloooow. If you're in the middle of editing your image and your program suddenly freezes and your hard-drive starts whirring like crazy, it's time to add more memory. Or you'll spend more time tapping your fingers and twiddling your thumbs instead of getting useful work done.
Equipment | Memory | Resolution | Calibration | Moire | Quick Masks | File Formats
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