Fatal ERROR: Ineffective mark-compacts near heap limit Allocation failed - JavaScript heap out of memory in Ionic 3

Profiling: Understand your memory usage

Profiling is your starting point to get a grip on Node.js process's memory usage. Tools like Chrome's DevTools or modules such as memwatch-next provide a deeper understanding of memory consumption over time. Time to flex your Node.js muscles.

/*
A Programmer is similar to Sherlock Holmes.
The Brain: Profiling tools like Chrome's DevTools
The Magnifying Glass: Observing the code & memory usage
The Mystery: Unusual memory spikes
*/ 
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Keeping up-to-date: Use Node version >10

Using the latest versions reaps the benefits of performance improvements and better memory management. In short, update your Node.js version >10 to keep things smooth. Just like how you always want your phone to run on the latest operating system, right?

/*
Going from Node version 8 to 10 is like moving from a bicycle to a sports car!
Better, faster and less exhausting (for memory, not you).
*/
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Bring out the big guns: Advanced solutions

In case all previous steps still keep you baffled with errors, it's time to step up our game. We set a persistent NODE_OPTIONS variable to dictate the memory allocation in every Node.js run:

export NODE_OPTIONS=--max-old-space-size=8192
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If you are on Windows, just replace export with set. The green flag for Node.js to allocate more memory everytime, without needing explicit flags.

Optimizing memory: The walk to lean code

A key influencer of memory-used is how you handle memory-consuming operations. So put your thinking cap (or coding cap, should we say) and evaluate the implementation of your algorithms. Aim to keep your code lean and mean, like a perfectly dieting model.

/*
Memory leaks are like junk in our code.
They slow us down & we don't even realize we're dragging them along.
Time to dump the junk and run like the wind!
*/
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Memory Leaks: The Battleground

Continuing on the last point, the memory has the propensity to act like a leaky bucket. Consequently, it's vital to identify and seal these memory leaks. After every significant code update, remember to perform checks. Just like finishing a home renovation and checking for every nook and corner.

/*
It's like having a bird with a giant hole in it.
No matter how much you try to fill, the water leaks out. 
Countering memory leaks is our plumber job in the programming world!
*/
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Local vs Servers: A tale of environments

Different environments require different configurations. Workstations may need to balance computer resources, while CI servers may have their own memory constraints. Keep these in mind while setting memory.

/*
Setting memory allocations is like a dance.
You can't step too far without your partner (the system)
You must remain in sync – or face the music (errors)!
*/
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Version Switch: Why Node.js 12.10.0 could be your new BFF

Remember we talked about updating Node version >10? How about jumping to 12.10.0? Known for efficient memory management, they say 'Certain versions of Node.js are like favorite jeans – they just fit better' 😉.

Ionic 3 Specifics: Community to the rescue!

Don't forget about your fellow Ionic 3 developers! The community may have specific tips & tricks that can prove useful. After all, great minds think alike, right?

/*
Communities are like cookbooks.
You find recipes (tips) you never knew you needed!
*/
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