Ask HN: Novel crazy ideas on reducing RAM usage

3 points by sudo_cowsay 42 days ago | 9 comments

Hi! I'm just wondering what kinds of software tools and ideas can be used/made to reduce the usage of RAM. Crazier the better.

theGeatZhopa 42 days ago |

For windows: start it in safe mode with command prompt (without ui, or even without ui and network)

eliminate the desktop, taskbar, and file explorer and run only Command Prompt or PowerShell (replacing explorer.exe with a CLI shell in the registry) or using Server Core/Nano Server principles

HerbManic 42 days ago |

In what context would this be? What application types? At OS level? This is a very broad question.

sudo_cowsay 42 days ago | |

It was meant to be broad (for more creative responses). However, I would focus more on OS level.

HerbManic 42 days ago | | |

Can do! On screen keyboard can only be used in T9 mode, only need graphics for 10 buttons instead of the full keyboard.

turtleyacht 42 days ago |

Boot into single-user mode. Set memory caps. Run apps on separate devices as "servers."

Recompile the kernel without extra device drivers.

Run apps on bare metal (see server idea above).

Don't use the computer at all, or charge yourself for "compute."

zbaby 42 days ago |

Simple: users should just stop multitasking

HerbManic 42 days ago | |

So almost Windows 8 tablet mode.

IcePic 42 days ago |

Go back to amiga and C64.

Flundstrom2 42 days ago |

Uninstall windows and avoid electron and chromium-based apps.