I can't imagine that Memory would be an issue, since, as I'm sure your familier, OS X's core processing allocates the needed memory to active applications (an open application isn't nec. active). I too, leave many applications open at a time, including Photoshop CS2 (don't like to wait for it to open). Not to add insult to injury, but I've been listing primarily with my G3 800 iBook, so I even further doubt memory (maxed out at 640mb RAM). I'm continuing to work for a solution for you, but I'm kind of stumped at the moment...