If you are running low on virtual memory xp should automatically adjust
virtual memory for you. Failing that you could adjust it yourself. Dumping
files from the prefetch folder isn't going to help. Some sources do advocate
deleting files in the prefetch folder periodically, but, as far as i know,
they automatically clear themselves out every month or so. Some people have
also had problems launching xp after clearing out the prefetch file.
To make adjustments to virtual memory:
1/ Go to Contol Panel
2/ Click on the System Icon
3/ In the system properties window click the Advanced Tab
4/ In the advanced window click Settings under the Performance section
5/ Click the Sdvanced Tab
6/ At the bottom of the advanced tab you will see a section marked 'virtual
memory' Click the Change button
7/ Select the drive you want to change, i.e., C:
8/ In the page file size for selected drive sextion click the Custom radio
button
9/ The two boxes marked Intitial size and maximum size should now become
available.
10/ In the minimum size box type the equivalent of 1.5 times your physical
memory. I.e., 256MB physical memory. 256 +128 (128 is half of 256) = 384MB.
So, in this example, you need to insert 384 in the minimum box.
11/ In the maximum box type the same figure, i.e 384
12/ Click the Set button followed by Ok to exit
See if that makes any difference.
Hope this helps
John Barnett - MVP
Associate expert
