How should you respond?

Tell the employee that they aren’t currently budgeted for equipment upgrades, but that you will let your supervisor know about the request so it can be properly determined if new ram can be acquired. The best response would be to tell the employee that they arent currently budgeted for equipment upgrades, but that you will let your supervisor know about their request so it can be properly determined if new ram can be acquired.

You should not simply dismiss an employees request. Perhaps this is not a need that is known to your supervisor and can be remedied. Though purchasing their own ram is an option, it is the companys responsibility to supply sufficient equipment and supplies for their employees to complete their tasks. You do not have the authority to tell an employee that they will receive new supplies. All requests need to be directed to your supervisor first.