cpu vs. disk usage

[mouse hole]

i really should understand this by now but i am still unsure about the difference between the cpu usage and the disk usage in the system usage window. are these two totally different issues? is the cpu usage related to your processor speed and RAM and the disk usage related to your hard drive's ability to get the necessary data into the RAM and processor? is my OS, PT and all the rtas plug-ins/virtual instruments i am using even accessing the hard disk that much or is it all just RAM and processor related? i ask becuase my cpu usage is always maxed out and my disk usage is barely even registering. does this mean that accessing the hard drive is not an issue and the real issue is just that my processor is too slow and i need more ram?

ps. my ram is already maxed out and i can't afford a better processor. the only thing i could do is get another hard drive or a faster hard drive but i am thinking that this won't solve the problem...

if someone could shed some light i would appreciate it.

1.8 ghz
1.5 gig of ram
7200 rpm internal
7200 rpm firewire 400

[Park Seward]

You are on the right track. Usually processing power runs out before disk access.

As you increase track count, the cpu and disk usage will increase. As you add plugs, only the CPU will increase. If you want more plugs or instruments, you will need a faster computer or Digi needs to improve the software!

[Gothboy]

I was going to ask how many tracks you have going when you have this problem?