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Archiver > TMG > 2002-03 > 1015117277


From: Lee Hoffman <>
Subject: Re: [TMG] Exhibit Log
Date: Sat, 02 Mar 2002 20:01:17 -0500
References: <OE135uKxeSuPcw3LyyU00005116@hotmail.com>
In-Reply-To: <5.1.0.14.0.20020302183300.00acca80@mail.fscv.net>


Walt Flory wrote:
>As for virtual memory:
> When Windows handles virtual memory it has an algorithm that tells
> it how much to use. Since it doesn't take a fixed amount it dynamically
> adds to it as it needs it. Under Win 98 (and I assume under ME as well)
> this causes virtual memory fragmentation. That is to say that when
> Windows goes to read or write to virtual memory the files may be in
> little pieces in various places on the hard drive which will slow down
> the reading and writing quite a bit over having them written out in one
> contiguous file.

True. But that was mainly true for earlier versions of Windows and partly
dependant on a number of factors. These factors include the amount of
available disk storage available, the amount of RAM memory available, and
to some extent, the user's way of working as well as the programs started
and stopped (including the type of program), and how often the system is
re-booted (started). Later versions of Windows handle virtual memory much
better and the usual recommendation is to let Windows handle it
automatically. At the same time, it is recommended that the user ensure
that the hard drive(s) are de-fragmented on a periodic basis (I do this
weekly, but I told my client to de-fragment their drive at least
monthly). Before de-fragmenting, be sure to "clean your hard drive" of all
deleted files (e.g., clear your Recycle Bin) and unneeded files (backups,
temporary files, temporary Internet files, etc.). One other
consideration for later versions of Windows is that it (to some extent)
watches what you do and adjusts its needs for virtual memory based on your
operating style.




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Lee Hoffman/KY
E-mail:
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A user of the best genealogy program, The Master Genealogist (TMG)

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