Use FlashDrive as RAM

Windows ReadyBoost

The Microsoft Windows Vista operating system introduced an interesting new technology called ReadyBoost. What ReadyBoost does is make use of non-volatile flash memory to cache data from the hard drive for faster accesses. It works like virtual memory, but uses non-volatile flash memory, instead of a hard drive.


Windows ReadyBoost introduces a new concept in add-on system memory. You can use nonvolatile flash memory devices, such as universal serial bus (USB) flash drives, to improve performance without having to add memory "under the hood." The flash memory device serves as an additional memory cache—that is, memory that the computer can access much more quickly than it can access data on the hard disk drive.




Running Windows Vista? Then you can use “Enhanced for ReadyBoost” USB Flash Drive to improve your PC’s performance – without the hassle and expense of installing additional RAM (Random Access Memory) in your system. And you can still use the flash drive for file storage as usual.

How ReadyBoost Technology Works

ReadyBoost allows your PC to use any “Enhanced for ReadyBoost” flash drive as additional memory. In effect, the flash drive becomes an extension of your system’s RAM. Because applications can retrieve data from the flash drive more quickly than from your PC’s hard drive, your system responds faster and runs better.

The Choice Is Yours

When you plug in any “Enhanced for ReadyBoost” flash drive, Windows Vista gives you the option of using the drive to speed up your system or as storage only:



You may then choose how much of the drive’s memory you want to use as system memory and how much you want to reserve for file storage:



Your Data Is Always Safe and Secure

With ReadyBoost, data stored on a flash drive to boost system performance is also backed up on your PC’s hard drive. You can remove the flash drive any time without losing any information or harming your system. Also, all data stored on the flash drive is encrypted, so it can’t be accessed or tampered with if the drive falls into someone else’s hands.

The More Flash Memory, the Bigger the Boost

To take advantage of ReadyBoost, you need at least 1GB of free memory on a flash drive, and ReadyBoost can take advantage of up to 4GB. That’s why, if you’re running Windows Vista, it’s a good idea to use higher-capacity flash drives – so you’ll have plenty of memory for ReadyBoost, and plenty for your file storage.
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