In performance... I'd set it to allow windows to automatically handle the memory. Rather than that set size. Then after a few days go back in and set it to custom with whatever windows recommends as both the minimum and maximum sizes... so they are both the same.

You really need more memory. 128mb is terribly small amount. Regular memory is fairly cheap right now. It would be a good time to figure out how to upgrade it.. Usually pretty simple... plug and play.

Thanks, mikie Unfortunately I'm fairly ignorant but trying to learn more about the innards of computers.
You say I can buy memory? Where can I get it? Like walmart or something? Where does it go? How much should I get? How much does it cost?
I"m comfortable with removing the cover and all but knowing where to plug it in is another story.
You say set it for automatic. I'll do that and see how she does. I don't run much on this machine pretty plain and simple just the way I like it but speed and errors are an issue.
I have more questions but I'll post new threads if needed for separate issues with this machine.

Thanks, Neal

Probably a pentium 400 cpu so just a guess, could be old PC-100 or PC-133 Sdram. $15 - $25 for a new stick of 128mb or 256mb. Could be your local computer shop would have a pair of used 128mb sticks they might want $5 each for. Not much use for the older style memory now-adays.

Some computers need the memory modules installed in pairs, some don't care if you just put one stick, or an even or odd number of sticks into it.

Some motherboards have One, Two, Three, or Four slots to plug in memory. Some really old ones might have eight slots.

Usually just either replace whats installed with larger MB's, or add a new memory stick or two. You'll have to look at the motherboard to see how many memory slots there are and what's installed now.

You can get a good idea what is there at the below link but the results aren't always 100% accurate. You need to look see what's physically installed before making a purchase decision. Sometimes the memory scans might show 2 sticks installed yet there is only one, is the most often snafu.

Memory for the most part just plugs in and out with usually a plastic or metal spring clip on one or both ends to hold it down. You need to be careful about body static killing them... I usually just barefoot it when working inside a computer case and lean a toe or arm on the case to make sure my body and the case has the same ground potentials.

Here is a link that might be useful: Crucial Memory Scan

Could use Belarc Advisor to see how many memory slots you have, look under Memory Module.
Probably 2 slots with the 128MB in one of them.
Most likely PC-100, PC-133 hardly ever works for me in older machines unless it's a PC-133 only machine.
Look for FSB 100 in Belarc.
Around here used PC-100 128MB not over $10, PC-100 256MB $15
Might want to use Startup Control Panel to see what unnecessary programs are running in the background that are using up the memory that you do have.

I'm not sure what you guys mean by PC-100 and PC-133.

I downloaded the belarc and ran it with success but the crucial memory scan that mikie sent wasn't compatible with firefox so I abandoned that one (sorry Mikie)

The Belarc scan says I have two slots which I saw myself earlier today with each card holding a pathetic 64MB.
Now I have another card that looks identical to the ones in this machine and it has 128 on it. Can I add it to one of the slots in place of one of the 64's and end up with 192MB?
I mean its a start right? Better than just 128.

What do you guys think?

Thanks, Neal

If it fits, try it. Worst that can happen is it wont work and you pull it back out.
That will give you a bit of a boost.

Pc-100 SDRAM ,,, the 100 = somekind of mega milli or some hertz, and is the memory buss speed rating, 133 hertz memory will work on 100 hertz buss but not visa;versa.

I know no one mentioned this but when you are swapping the memory, please ensure that the machine is turned off and unplugged as well as grounding yourself

Neal,
You got it, stick the 128MB in with the 64MB and you'll have 192MB.
Then later on when you run into a 128MB, 256MB or 512MB, replace the 64MB. That's how I started, every little bit helps.
I should correct myself. PC-133 usually is reverse compatible, which means it will work on 100 buss speed (FSB) unless the stick is a PC-133 only.

Bascially PC-100 and PC-133 are a certain size of memory, later on memory sticks changed in physical and buss size like 266mhz, 333mhz etc.
Now the they have stuff like PC2100, PC5300 and beyond.

genes, mikie mentioned grounding, glad you pointed out the obvious, turn the power off first.