Admin

I really don't know either, but let's learn together. Here is what the word doc on the Ready Boost Enabled, Sandisk Cruzer Micro 2gb drive I picked up says...

Adding system memory (RAM) is often the best way to improve your PC's performance. More memory means applications can run without needing to access the hard drive. However, upgrading memory is not always easy. You need to know what type of memory you need, purchase the memory, and open your computer to install the memory—which sometimes can invalidate your support agreement. Also, some machines have limited memory expansion capabilities, preventing you from adding RAM even if you are willing to do so. Windows Vista introduces a new concept in adding memory to a system. Windows ReadyBoost lets users use a removable flash memory device, such as a USB thumb drive, to improve system performance without opening the box. Windows ReadyBoost can improve system performance because it can retrieve data kept on the flash memory more quickly than it can retrieve data kept on the hard disk, decreasing the time you need to wait for your PC to respond. Combined with SuperFetch technology, this can help drive impressive improvements in system responsiveness. Windows ReadyBoost technology is reliable and provides protection of the data stored on your device. You can remove the memory device at any time without any loss of data or negative impact to the system; however, if you remove the device, your performance returns to the level you experienced without the device. Additionally, data on the removable memory device is encrypted to help prevent inappropriate access to data when the device is removed.

OK, it's a RAM extension, cool. I only have 2gb in this machine, so more is good!We nowneed Vista and a Ready Boost Enabled drive to rock, check.... Read on for the test.
Ok, so I plugged it in.
I am greeted with this screen. I choose Speed Up My System and here we go...
I guess I will see a difference when I start taxing my memory. So far (in 20 min), I don't "feel" a difference. If I do notice it later, I will report back. For everyone's info, this drive was included in a Windows Vista Kit I got at CES from Microsoft. It also had a nice mousepad, the PC Version of Lego Star Wars II, a pc to pc transfer cable,and some other goodies. For more info on this visit Microsoft or Sandisk.

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Legodude522

That was really innovative on Microsoft's part.

Any idea on how much wear this would have on flash memory? I'm sure it's minimal though.

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imported_Radimus

It might be faster than HD time, but has to be MUCH slower than main ram.

I suppose if they used it for paging... but I'm not betting the performance is all that.

Toolless cases and cable management make adding RAM a 2 minute job... If they want to make adding ram easier, a sticker on the front of the case would alleviate any questions.

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Rad's Law on Technology
#1: All devices should charge via USB (where possible)
#2: All devices should have more than one function or interface with other devices
#3: LEDs are at least 50% too bright and should only be lit when an error is present, searching, or charging

MyPDA @ 01-08-07

Pocketbrain

Well, if you're stuck back in 2002 with a RDRAM machine and 512MB like me, this really looks sweet. I'm starting to have older-machine pangs and am going to have to reformat/reinstall to get the "original" performance. Buying more RDRAM is not an answer, as it would be cheaper to get a whole new system!

Does it work with XP?

Why doesn't somebody just package RAM in a USB drive? That should be even faster than the Ready Boost flash drive.