Computer memory

iArtist · Jun 23, 2011

Please try to explain in layman's terms!

I have just installed photoshop on my pc and it is running super slow. I assume because of all the other stuff on my pc. I have removed some programs I nolonger use but wonder how I can increase memory so my photoshop runs at a decent speed etc.

I am not very technical

Thank you

RBS · Jun 23, 2011

What PC you have? Model please. What windows are you running - XP or windows Vista, 7?

iArtist · Jun 23, 2011

RobCCTV said:
What PC you have? Model please. What windows are you running - XP or windows Vista, 7?

4 CPU 3.00Ghz 2.99 Ghz, 1 GB Ram Intel(R) Pentium(R)

Windows XP

Spock · Jun 23, 2011

Yes you need more RAM, preferably 4GB for Photoshop. Get some from http://www.crucial.com/uk and use their thingy which scans your PC to show what type of memory you need.

maxh · Jun 23, 2011

RobCCTV said:
What PC you have? Model please. What windows are you running - XP or windows Vista, 7?

If you're on a PC you can open a program called "run" then type in "dxdiag" this should give you your system information. I'd post that up so we can give better advise.

Also click the display tab in the dxdiag box and let us know the info there. You may have a crap graphics card that can't handle eXtreme photoshopping.

If you're running Windows 7 you can just type "dxdiag" into the start menu text-box.

RBS · Jun 23, 2011

Unique Gift said:
4 CPU 3.00Ghz 2.99 Ghz, 1 GB Ram Intel(R) Pentium(R)

Windows XP

You need more RAM, but because you are running Windows XP, it doesn`t support more than 3GB. You could add 2GB stick, costs £15-25.

Your hard drive also might be quite old. You could replace it with some modern 7200rpm 16mb cache one for £30.

iArtist · Jun 23, 2011

maxh said:
If you're on a PC you can open a program called "run" then type in "dxdiag" this should give you your system information. I'd post that up so we can give better advise.

Also click the display tab in the dxdiag box and let us know the info there. You may have a crap graphics card that can't handle eXtreme photoshopping.

If you're running Windows 7 you can just type "dxdiag" into the start menu text-box.

------------------
System Information
------------------
Time of this report: 6/23/2011, 11:26:26
Machine name: CWG
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 3 (2600.xpsp_sp3_gdr.101209-1647)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Dell Inc.
System Model: Dimension 5000
BIOS: Phoenix ROM BIOS PLUS Version 1.10 A02
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 3.00GHz
Memory: 1022MB RAM
Page File: 1009MB used, 1449MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
DX Setup Parameters: Not found
DxDiag Version: 5.03.2600.5512 32bit Unicode

Posilan · Jun 23, 2011

Unique Gift said:
4 CPU 3.00Ghz 2.99 Ghz, 1 GB Ram Intel(R) Pentium(R)

Windows XP

As spock said, you need 4GB (ish) for Photoshop.

You mention you are using XP - if it's the 32bit version, if you put 4GB in, it will only "see" up to 3.6GB, but make a big difference. 64bit windows will see the full 4GB.

Upgrading the memory is cheap and easy - go to http://www.crucial.com/uk/ and it will scan your system and advise on the correct memory to buy.

Steve

iArtist · Jun 23, 2011

Display Devices
---------------
Card name: ATI Radeon X300/X550/X1050 Series
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip type: ATI Radeon Graphics Processor (0x5B60)
DAC type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_5B60&SUBSYS_03021002&REV_00
Display Memory: 128.0 MB
Current Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6925 (English)
DDI Version: 9 (or higher)
Driver Attributes: Final Retail
Driver Date/Size: 2/11/2010 05:45:14, 325120 bytes
WHQL Logo'd: No
WHQL Date Stamp: None
VDD: n/a
Mini VDD: ati2mtag.sys
Mini VDD Date: 2/11/2010 08:38:10, 3565056 bytes
Device Identifier: {D7B71EE2-1820-11CF-BF68-0823A1C2CB35}
Vendor ID: 0x1002
Device ID: 0x5B60
SubSys ID: 0x03021002
Revision ID: 0x0000
Revision ID: 0x0000
Video Accel: ModeMPEG2_C ModeMPEG2_D ModeWMV8_B ModeWMV8_A ModeWMV9_B ModeWMV9_A
Deinterlace Caps: {6E8329FF-B642-418B-BCF0-BCB6591E255F}: Format(In/Out)=(YUY2,YUY2) Frames(Prev/Fwd/Back)=(0,0,1) Caps=VideoProcess_YUV2RGB VideoProcess_StretchX VideoProcess_StretchY DeinterlaceTech_PixelAdaptive
{335AA36E-7884-43A4-9C91-7F87FAF3E37E}: Format(In/Out)=(YUY2,YUY2) Frames(Prev/Fwd/Back)=(0,0,0) Caps=VideoProcess_YUV2RGB VideoProcess_StretchX VideoProcess_StretchY DeinterlaceTech_BOBVerticalStretch
{552C0DAD-CCBC-420B-83C8-74943CF9F1A6}: Format(In/Out)=(NV12,0x3231564e) Frames(Prev/Fwd/Back)=(0,0,2) Caps=VideoProcess_YUV2RGB VideoProcess_StretchX VideoProcess_StretchY DeinterlaceTech_PixelAdaptive
{6E8329FF-B642-418B-BCF0-BCB6591E255F}: Format(In/Out)=(NV12,0x3231564e) Frames(Prev/Fwd/Back)=(0,0,1) Caps=VideoProcess_YUV2RGB VideoProcess_StretchX VideoProcess_StretchY DeinterlaceTech_PixelAdaptive
{335AA36E-7884-43A4-9C91-7F87FAF3E37E}: Format(In/Out)=(NV12,0x3231564e) Frames(Prev/Fwd/Back)=(0,0,0) Caps=VideoProcess_YUV2RGB VideoProcess_StretchX VideoProcess_StretchY DeinterlaceTech_BOBVerticalStretch
Registry: OK
DDraw Status: Enabled
D3D Status: Enabled
AGP Status: Enabled
DDraw Test Result: Not run
D3D7 Test Result: Not run
D3D8 Test Result: Not run
D3D9 Test Result: Not run

iArtist · Jun 23, 2011

Posilan said:
As spock said, you need 4GB (ish) for Photoshop.

You mention you are using XP - if it's the 32bit version, if you put 4GB in, it will only "see" up to 3.6GB, but make a big difference. 64bit windows will see the full 4GB.

Upgrading the memory is cheap and easy - go to http://www.crucial.com/uk/ and it will scan your system and advise on the correct memory to buy.

Steve

It suggests this:

ade

2GB kit (1GBx2)
DDR2 PC2-5300 CL=5 Unbuffered NON-ECC DDR2-667 1.8V 128Meg x 64 Part #: CT908126

I'm not using full photoshop just the elements 9 package (about 900 mb) will this be enough? Is it easy for me to fit?

RBS · Jun 23, 2011

Unique Gift said:
It suggests this:

Is it easy for me to fit?

Oh yes. Open case, you will see empty slot next to current memory stick. Stick/push new one in slot, it will "click" in. Close case. Job done

3 min job.

maxh · Jun 23, 2011

Unique Gift said:
------------------
System Information
------------------
Time of this report: 6/23/2011, 11:26:26
Machine name: CWG
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 3 (2600.xpsp_sp3_gdr.101209-1647)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Dell Inc.
System Model: Dimension 5000
BIOS: Phoenix ROM BIOS PLUS Version 1.10 A02
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 3.00GHz
Memory: 1022MB RAM
Page File: 1009MB used, 1449MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
DX Setup Parameters: Not found
DxDiag Version: 5.03.2600.5512 32bit Unicode

Yeah, you need lots more RAM!!

As it's a desktop it would be quite easy for you to buy the RAM and install it yourself (it's literally plugging something in to the right hole)

This might help http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7vt_VYt6vY

In the mean-time you could try increasing your page files to around 3 GB. This makes some of your hard-drive act as RAM, but the read-speed is a lot slower on the hard disk so you may not notice much of a difference.

Posilan · Jun 23, 2011

Unique Gift said:
It suggests this:

ade

2GB kit (1GBx2)
DDR2 PC2-5300 CL=5 Unbuffered NON-ECC DDR2-667 1.8V 128Meg x 64 Part #: CT908126

I'm not using full photoshop just the elements 9 package (about 900 mb) will this be enough? Is it easy for me to fit?

Yes, very easy to fit. Crucial also include a leaflet to show you how. Just buy one of the kits and add it to the 1GB you already have. You should see a performance boost straight from boot at 3GB instead of 1GB.

Steve

maxh · Jun 23, 2011

This one will work for you.

I checked and Dimension 5000 takes DDR2 RAM http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/4GB-RAM-MEMOR...&ps=63&clkid=847099255249372407#ht_1398wt_939

iArtist · Jun 23, 2011

Chaps you are angels

Or super heros...more manly!!

I shall order pronto.

Thank you!!!

Posilan · Jun 23, 2011

Unique Gift said:
Chaps you are angels

Or super heros...more manly!!

I shall order pronto.

Thank you!!!

If you have any problems fitting it, give me a shout

Steve

iArtist · Jun 23, 2011

Thank you, the order has been placed

Can't wait to see how pc performs afterwards!!

iArtist · Jun 25, 2011

Hello. I have installed my 2GB Ram just now and tried photoshop elements and seems to be running ok. Is it possible for me to check they have installed ok though just to be sure?

Thanks

Leah

Posilan · Jun 25, 2011

Right click on "my computer" and select "properties". Is should show you the amount of installed ram there

Steve

iArtist · Jun 25, 2011

Posilan said:
Right click on "my computer" and select "properties". Is should show you the amount of installed ram there

Steve

It says 3GB Ram..cool

NextPoint · Jun 25, 2011

If you're not doing graphics for print, I've alway found Photoshop to be a bit overkill. Check Real Draw instead:

http://www.mediachance.com/realdraw/index.html

Much easier to use and uses a lot less memory.

JustJohn · Jun 25, 2011

Just curious, did you take precautions regarding static electricity while handling / working inside case?

iArtist · Jun 26, 2011

JustJohn said:
Just curious, did you take precautions regarding static electricity while handling / working inside case?

Yes, I followed the instructions that came with the thingy.

I earthed myself, discharged excess static when machine off, etc etc

Why?

LicensedToTrade · Jun 26, 2011

NextPoint said:
If you're not doing graphics for print, I've alway found Photoshop to be a bit overkill. Check Real Draw instead:

http://www.mediachance.com/realdraw/index.html

Much easier to use and uses a lot less memory.

What strange advice. Why would anyone ever use photoshop for print in the first place? Photoshop is much more suited to scalar graphics for screen use. Illustrator is more suitable for print work as it fully supports vector.

cmcp · Jun 26, 2011

For manipulating photos, for print?

iArtist · Jun 27, 2011

Yes, the photos I will be manipulating are for print.

I have been offered a spot on this new site:
http://www.youonlymoreawesome.com/welcome/artist/64/FunKyToon

The main service of this site is retouched photos using photoshop etc. and the end result is for printed products, whether it be magazine or gift /merchandise items etc. The service I have been recruited for is original art pieces but I feel the photo editing packages have more legs.

Presently I am not familiar with Photoshop but I feel it very advantageous that I become familiar with it as it widely recognised as industry standard. I also use Inkscape (equiavlent to Illustrator) and a variety of other things but really mastering Photoshop is important to me.

Hence my need for improved PC performance and my need for Photoshop!

LicensedToTrade · Jun 27, 2011

Unique Gift said:
Yes, the photos I will be manipulating are for print.

I have been offered a spot on this new site:
http://www.youonlymoreawesome.com/welcome/artist/64/FunKyToon

The main service of this site is retouched photos using photoshop etc. and the end result is for printed products, whether it be magazine or gift /merchandise items etc. The service I have been recruited for is original art pieces but I feel the photo editing packages have more legs.

Presently I am not familiar with Photoshop but I feel it very advantageous that I become familiar with it as it widely recognised as industry standard. I also use Inkscape (equiavlent to Illustrator) and a variety of other things but really mastering Photoshop is important to me.

Hence my need for improved PC performance and my need for Photoshop!

Would this work be similar to that which you already do? I still can't understand why a cartoonist like yourself would use photoshop. I would have thought that scalar images were the last thing you wanted. I can't think of many situations where a cartoonist would need to use photoshop instead of illustrator.

Posilan · Jun 27, 2011

The big question is - is your PC running better now with 3GB under the hood?

JustJohn · Jun 27, 2011

Unique Gift said:
Yes, I followed the instructions that came with the thingy. I earthed myself, discharged excess static when machine off, etc etc
Why?

Just curious, a lot of folk handle / install Ram Modules without bothering about static, few days later the PC starts playing up.

iArtist · Jun 27, 2011

LicensedToTrade said:
Would this work be similar to that which you already do? I still can't understand why a cartoonist like yourself would use photoshop. I would have thought that scalar images were the last thing you wanted. I can't think of many situations where a cartoonist would need to use photoshop instead of illustrator.

On the freelance sites all clients seeking cartoonists ask for those who are experienced and skilled in photoshop.

However...

I am changing direction LTT and moving away from hand drawing cartoons because things are very slow on the hand drawn cartoon front.

My aim now is to master all things digital art, including 3D graphics and eventually animation. It's a long term goal but I need to get moving on this now while things are quiet and I have the time to dedicate to learning and mastering a variety of industry standard applications.

iArtist · Jun 27, 2011

Posilan said:
The big question is - is your PC running better now with 3GB under the hood?

It seemed to be on that first day now it's hard to tell. I will however be having a go with it today when I've worked myself up to it!

I think it'll be fine.

iArtist · Jun 27, 2011

JustJohn said:
Just curious, a lot of folk handle / install Ram Modules without bothering about static, few days later the PC starts playing up.

I'm one of those people who occassionally affects electrical items, especially when in a bad mood, so my main concern was not killing myself rather than upsetting the pc, so I did everything exactly as advised. Fingers crossed PC will continue to perform ok.

LicensedToTrade · Jun 27, 2011

Unique Gift said:
On the freelance sites all clients seeking cartoonists ask for those who are experienced and skilled in photoshop.

However...

I am changing direction LTT and moving away from hand drawing cartoons because things are very slow on the hand drawn cartoon front.

My aim now is to master all things digital art, including 3D graphics and eventually animation. It's a long term goal but I need to get moving on this now while things are quiet and I have the time to dedicate to learning and mastering a variety of industry standard applications.

Well in that case you are lucky that you are doing it this way around rather than moving from photoshop to illustrator. Scalar programs are pretty easy to learn as any bedroom bandit will show you. Working with vector is much more tricky and less reliant on filters. If you can work with vector then moving to scalar is a doddle.

Not sure about 3D though. I had a dabble with 3DS (probably about 10 years ago!) and couldn't get my head around it.

Animation certainly sounds like a good natural step for you. Have you considered flash with actionscript?

Best of luck with your learnin' and let us see some of your work when you feel brave enough

iArtist · Jun 27, 2011

LicensedToTrade said:
Animation certainly sounds like a good natural step for you. Have you considered flash with actionscript?

Best of luck with your learnin' and let us see some of your work when you feel brave enough

Not heard of it, I did look into Poser Pro re the 3D graphics and animation. But I am going to resist buying anything else and try to master one thing at a time.

I am doing ok on the vector front presently (Inkscape) but still lots more to learn. I will continue to learn that while working with photoshop.

My immediate goal to be able to say to people...forget the expensive photshoot let me take a good existing photo and make it look as good or better than that expensive photo shoot by manipulating the image.

I have dabbled (in Inkscape - vector program) with these results, but there is a LOT of room for improvement and that's my aim over next few weeks.

Before and after pics

nightmare4471 · Jun 27, 2011

Seems it will work, you just would require to install it in your system and start using Photoshop once you have refreshed your system completely

papverpoppies · Jun 27, 2011

Unique Gift said:
Not heard of it, I did look into Poser Pro re the 3D graphics and animation. But I am going to resist buying anything else and try to master one thing at a time.

I am doing ok on the vector front presently (Inkscape) but still lots more to learn. I will continue to learn that while working with photoshop.

My immediate goal to be able to say to people...forget the expensive photshoot let me take a good existing photo and make it look as good or better than that expensive photo shoot by manipulating the image.

I have dabbled (in Inkscape - vector program) with these results, but there is a LOT of room for improvement and that's my aim over next few weeks.

Before and after pics

Really like the little girl; has almost a ghostly /atmospheric feel to it.

Pops ~xx~

LicensedToTrade · Jun 27, 2011

Unique Gift said:
Not heard of it...

You've not heard of flash? Really?

Baffling, but anyway...

Adobe Flash is the name given to the design interfact (Also vector similar to Illustrator) Actionscript is the name given to the coding that can be used with Flash to turn elements into animations.

DotNetWebs · Jun 27, 2011

Unique Gift said:
Not heard of it, I did look into Poser Pro re the 3D graphics and animation. But I am going to resist buying....

Have you had a look at Blender? You wouldn't need to BUY anything:

http://www.blender.org/features-gallery/

Regards

Dotty

iArtist · Jun 27, 2011

LicensedToTrade said:
You've not heard of flash? Really?

Baffling, but anyway...

Adobe Flash is the name given to the design interfact (Also vector similar to Illustrator) Actionscript is the name given to the coding that can be used with Flash to turn elements into animations.

Yes I've heard of flash, I haven't heard of actionscript.

Davek0974 · Jun 27, 2011

LicensedToTrade said:
What strange advice. Why would anyone ever use photoshop for print in the first place? Photoshop is much more suited to scalar graphics for screen use. Illustrator is more suitable for print work as it fully supports vector.

Garbage.

Photoshop is primarily used for photo editing and retouching. Illustrator is a vector based graphics design suite, nothing to do with photo retouching.

Printing is far easier from photoshop.

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