Notebook has low CPU Usage but high Physical Memory?

Question

Hi.

I've just bought a new HP notebook and I've noticed it's quite sluggish compared to its specs.

Here is the specs screenshot:
http://img198.imageshack.us/f/123hf.jpg/

Here is the screenshot showing physical memory:
http://img513.imageshack.us/f/1234md.jpg/


Added info:
The hard disk is 320 gig, divided into 300 and 20 gig.
The 20 gig disk was partitioned for back up files.
I have avast currently installed and am now performing my first scan (which I think does not affect anything since we just bought the laptop).
The OS is windows 7 starter.
I've also finished defragmenting (Although when it gets to the part where the loading bar says "fragmenting disk", it wont go beyond 0%.


Im not a newbie using computers and laptops, however Im not much into the technical stuff.

Thanks to anyone that can help.

Answer 1

You Need More memory than 1GB...



You need 2GB of memory or better...



I go for 4GB if you system can take it...

Answer 2

Your ram is low. For windows 7, I wouldn't recommend anything under 2 gigs. Even that would be a bit slow. I have 4 gigs of ram in my computer. If you can install more ram in the computer go for it. Try getting a 2 gig chip. That would definitely speed up things. Virtual memory has almost nothing to do with how fast the computer is, mostly its the CPU and the virtual memory(RAM).

Answer 3

When your computer uses the term "physical memory" it is talking about RAM not ROM. ROM is your hard drive. RAM or random access memory, is the memory your computer uses while it is in use. When you shut your computer off, this memory is wiped clean. It is not uncommon to have a high percentage of physical memory shown as used. My computer shows 35% physical memory used and I just turned it on.



In short: It's nothing to worry about.