In this post, I want to show you 3 obscure tricks that will fuel your online adventures with Chrome.
1.Managing MemoryIn the address bar type this: chrome://memory-redirectChrome pops open an advanced memory console that reveals all processes consuming virtual and regular memory. Virtual memory shows how much of your hard drive Chrome has apportioned for RAM.If your browser is feeling sluggish, check the total column.But this memory tab doesn't really let you do much about the problem, that’s why I recommend using the Chrome Task Manager to manage voracious Chrome.exe processes and lethargic tabs.To conjure the Chrome Task Manager just press Ctrl + Esc.Admittedly, it’s not as robust as using the Windows task manager; however, it does show you which tabs are having the most corrosive effect on your browsing experience.2. Cache ControlCache makes me think of money, but I’m thinking of the wrong cash… ahh.Anyway, as you surf the web, Chrome collects various web elements like images, videos and style sheets and stores them on your hard drive. This usually speeds up your browsing experience because it obviates unnecessary HTTP requests.For example, the first time you visit fixedbyvonnie.com Chrome dutifully retrieves the logos, images and formatting sheets (called CSS style sheets) and saves them to a special section of your hard drive.The next time you visit my site, Chrome culls common elements from its local data store saving precious milliseconds that would have been wasted on an extraneous page request. Now, one element probably won’t make a difference but most sites have hundreds of elements so caching bits of common data often provides a tangible benefit.So where exactly is the cache?You can take a peek by pressing Ctrl + r and entering this address:%userprofile%\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default\CacheOr even better, type this into the Chrome address box:chrome://cacheClicking the link reveals esoteric details about the HTTP request such as the content type, age and expiration date.If your browser is acting wonkey (is that word?) you might be tempted to clear the cache. That’s a good thought; however, realize that the cache is actually an effective means of speeding up your browser. It only becomes an issue when it grows too large.That’s why I suggest clearing other browsing data before clearing the cache.Note:Only use the cache clear as a last resort.In the Chrome address bar punch in this link:chrome://settings/clearBrowserDataCheck everything except Cached images and files and click Clear browsing data.3. Perverse PluginI’m talking about those stubborn plugins that keep ruining your day.To view all the plugins Chrome is cognizant of type this in the address bar: chrome://pluginsNow you can selectively disable to allow specific plugins.Extensions are similar to plugins but I think the difference is that extensions are written for the Chrome Web Store but Plugins are designed to provide default services for the browser such as Adobe Flash and the ever tenuous Java.