One year ago=means crappy BETA version.ive tested it too and and i know its crap even on 1024 ram.but the vista ultimate final version its smooth.i tested it on a 512 ram while media player was playing,windows messenger live,internet explorer opened,gadgets on,aero on,my picture and my music folder. Note:If you run games,there you will need at least 1gb.at least atm.