How much RAM for Photoshop under Windows?

I have a Macbook PRO with 2 GB RAM.

I use XP/Parallels with 512mb RAM dedicated to it when it's running. I use Photoshop CS2 and Illustrator CS2 (Windows versions because Adobe won't let me "upgrade" to Mac versions - I'd have to buy new full versions ).

Should I be allocating more RAM to Windows, via Parallels, to allow them to run better/faster/more stable?

Also, should I keep OS X programs to a minimum while I'm running PS and ILL under Parallels?

- Mike

Well, for optimum performance with those programs, your best bet is to run them straight on Boot Camp.

But if you want to continue using Parallels, then I think for better performance, put 1gig for XP.

Mac does a nice job keeping RAM balanced and efficient, so I think with 1gig you will be safe.

Not a bad idea to look into upgrading in the future though. Upgrading to 4gig..

Good luck.
-AC

I just ordered a 4 GB RAM set from Kingston.

I'll only by using Parallels and Windows (Photoshop, Quicken etc.) once or twice a week for an hour or two. The rest of the time I'm usually in Office for Mac.

Should I set Parallels to use 1 GB and leave 3 GB for OS X?

When Parallels is not running, does OS X have access to all 4 GB or would the 1 GB always reserved for Parallels?

- Mike

Nice.

You can put 2gb on OS X and 2gb on Windows... No biggie. You will still have a lot of performance available.

When Parallels is not running, the OS that is running has the full 4gb to use.