Memory

An Entry Level System usually running Windows 9X, 64 MB is adequate, and 128 MB desirable. Since the price of memory has dropped means that installing 128 MB would be better, rather than trying to make do with a marginal amount of memory.

As the other response states, 128MB is a good general purpose amount of memory.

Of course, the amount that is sufficient does vary by what applications are being used.

I would recommend around 196MB as the practicle high end amount of memery for most users.

For a CADD or graphics arts environment, you want as much memory as you can practically install.

Windows 98 does have a memory wall at 512MB. Many systems won't even boot with 512MB or more RAM.

I use 384MB in most of my 98 boxes. This keeps virtual memory usage to a minimum.

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My backup rig came with 98SE and 64mb...ran ok.

Upped it to 128 and immediately noticed a difference in performance. Most folks have more than just their OS on their drive.

This system, here, has 256mb and running a major app, motherboard monitor, a firewall, Norton and a browser, usage can go over 45 to 50 percent.

Bottom line is to consider how you use your computer and use as much as you feel comfortable buying, without exceeding the max for your system (sort of useless at that point).

Mike