Start-Up Time

• ZDNet.com tested Windows Vista Home Basic in a test computer with the minimum 512 MB of RAM. During tests, the computer and operating system loaded within 30 seconds, faster than previous tests with more RAM, oddly enough.
  
  

Media Functionality

• ZDNet's tests confirm that Vista Home Basic can flawlessly play DVDs in full resolution with surround sound active. While users will have to download a codec to make DVD playback available on Vista Basic, ZDNet claims it works wonderfully.
  
  

Installing Software

• ZDNet tested Vista Home Basic's installation capabilities with 512 MB of RAM by installing a large anti-virus program, which installed without any problems or system slowdown.
  
  

Basic Functionality

• While Vista Home Basic operates fine with 512 MB of RAM, it certainly won't be enough for power users. If you plan on playing games, using resource-intense programs or ripping DVDs, you may run into slowdown issues caused by the low amount of RAM.
  
  

Considerations

• If you have the money or can save up a bit, RAM isn't very expensive and adding more to your system will ensure that it continues to run smoothly, even with more resource-hungry programs.