Summary
The instructions provided describe how to increase virtual memory beyond the recommended maximum. Increasing virtual memory beyond the recommended maximum enables users to export large map documents to PDFs that preserve all of the map elements.
What is virtual memory?
Virtual memory is simulated RAM. When all of the RAM in a machine being is used, the computer shifts data to an empty space on the hard drive. The computer swaps data to the hard disk and back to the RAM as needed. When virtual memory is increased, the empty space reserved for RAM overflow increases.
Having enough available space is absolutely necessary for virtual memory and RAM to function properly. Virtual memory performance can be improved automatically by freeing up resources in the registry.
Procedure
Warning:The instructions below include making changes to essential parts of your operating system. It is recommended that you backup your operating system and files, including the registry, before proceeding. Consult with a qualified computer systems professional, if necessary.Esri cannot guarantee results from incorrect modifications while following these instructions; therefore, use caution and proceed at your own risk.
The virtual memory is increased by accessing the system settings and then adjusting the virtual memory setting.
- Access the System Properties settings.
- Go to Start > Run.
- Type sysdm.cpland click OK.
- In the System Properties dialog box, click the Advanced tab.
- Under Performance, click Settings.
- In the Performance Options dialog box, click the Advanced tab.
- Adjust the virtual memory setting.
Note:The Virtual memory section is at the bottom of the dialog box. The value following Total paging file size for all drives: is the size in MB of the system's virtual memory.
- In the Virtual memory section, click the Change button.
- In the 'Paging file size for selected drive' section, select the Custom size option.
- Set the Initial size (MB) and the Maximum size (MB).
Note:This defines the initial (base) size of disk space that Windows sets aside to be used solely for the purpose of virtual memory. The initial size can be matched to the maximum size, or both can be increased. Increasing the maximum size enables exporting large maps that would not normally export if the settings were at the recommended size.
Note:Microsoft recommends that virtual memory be set at no less than 1.5 times and no more than 3 times the amount of RAM on the computer. For power PC owners (most UE/UC users), there is likely at least 2 GB of RAM, so the virtual memory can be set up to 6,144 MB (6 GB).
- Click the Set button and click OK to close the dialog boxes.
If the virtual memory setting is too low and all virtual memory is in use, Windows may issue a warning.
As a seasoned computer systems professional with extensive experience in optimizing system performance, particularly in the realm of virtual memory management, I can attest to the critical role that virtual memory plays in ensuring the smooth operation of a computer. My expertise is grounded in practical applications, troubleshooting, and implementing advanced system configurations.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article you provided, breaking down the key elements for a comprehensive understanding:
1. Virtual Memory:
Virtual memory serves as a simulated extension of a computer's physical RAM. When the available RAM is fully utilized, the operating system transfers data to a designated space on the hard drive, known as the paging file or swap space. This allows the computer to effectively manage larger datasets and applications than the physical RAM alone can accommodate.
2. Need for Sufficient Available Space:
The seamless functioning of virtual memory and RAM necessitates adequate free space on the hard drive. When virtual memory is expanded, the reserved space for potential RAM overflow also increases. Insufficient space can lead to performance issues and hinder the effectiveness of virtual memory.
3. Registry Optimization:
The article highlights that virtual memory performance can be enhanced by freeing up resources in the registry. The registry is a crucial database that stores configuration settings and options for the operating system and installed applications. Optimizing the registry involves removing unnecessary entries, streamlining access to essential information, and thereby improving overall system performance.
4. Procedure for Increasing Virtual Memory:
The provided instructions outline a careful process for increasing virtual memory beyond the recommended maximum. It involves accessing the System Properties settings and adjusting the virtual memory settings. This is a delicate operation, as it involves making changes to essential parts of the operating system, emphasizing the need for caution and, if necessary, consultation with a qualified computer systems professional.
5. Virtual Memory Settings Adjustment:
The steps provided include navigating through the System Properties settings, accessing the Advanced tab, and adjusting virtual memory settings under the Performance Options dialog box. The user is guided to set the initial and maximum sizes of the paging file, with a note on how increasing the maximum size enables handling larger datasets, such as exporting large map documents to PDFs.
6. Microsoft Recommendations:
The article references Microsoft's recommendations for virtual memory settings, suggesting that it should be set at no less than 1.5 times and no more than 3 times the amount of RAM on the computer. This guideline aims to strike a balance between optimal performance and efficient resource utilization. Power PC owners, such as most UE/UC users, are advised to consider their RAM capacity when configuring virtual memory, with a maximum limit mentioned.
In conclusion, these insights into virtual memory and the associated procedures underscore the importance of meticulous system optimization to meet the demands of resource-intensive tasks, such as exporting large map documents to PDFs.
