ASAP IT Technology Blog

Random-access memory, or RAM, is a common type of memory that is found within countless computer and electronic systems. Capable of reading and writing data in any order, RAM can handle information with rapid speeds that are not seen in other similar devices. Over the years, multiple types of RAM have come about, including SRAM, DRAM, and EDO RAM. In this blog, we will discuss the primary variations of RAM computer memory, allowing you to better understand their capabilities and uses.
 
Static random-access memory (SRAM) is a variation of RAM that takes advantage of latching circuitry for the storage of data bits. As a form of volatile memory, SRAM can only retain its data for as long as there is power provided to it. Nevertheless, the amount of power required for SRAM operations is low when idle, and such devices are known for their high performance and reliability. As compared to other forms of RAM, SRAM does not have to be refreshed for its performance, though will typically be more expensive. When implemented within a computer or electronic system, SRAM will typically be used for the cache and internal registers of a CPU, rather than acting as a form of main memory.
 
Dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) is a form of semiconductor memory device, utilizing capacitors and transistors to form memory cells that can retain data bits. The capacitors of memory cells always exist in either a charged or discharged state, those of which create binary values of a bit. As the electric charge of a capacitor will slowly diminish over time, DRAM technology requires a periodic memory refresh to restore charges and retain data. Similar to SRAM, DRAM is a form of volatile memory. As such, it will only hold onto data for as long as there is power being provided to the device. The most common use for DRAM is serving as the main memory of computers and graphic cards, though such devices may also serve similar roles in video game consoles and other digital electronics.
 
Extended data out random-access memory (EDO RAM) is an early variation of DRAM chip, invented to improve the performance characteristics of fast page mode DRAM (FPM DRAM). Unlike such early DRAM variations, EDO RAM was capable of reducing the time between cycles as a new cycle could begin while maintaining an active data output buffer from the previous cycle. Creating an overlap in operations, EDO RAM memory could improve performance over existing RAM types for the benefit of various systems while making personal computers cheaper to construct. While EDO RAM served as an advantageous memory option for a period of time, the 1996 release of SDRAM superseded the capabilities of EDO RAM, rendering it fairly obsolete.
 
When deciding between various random-access memory devices, one should consider the specific needs of their application or system. Additionally, each type of RAM will typically feature a range of speeds and technological generations, thus one should also consider the transfer rates they desire and whether or not a particular component is compatible with their system. Once you have determined exactly what you need, let the experts at ASAP IT Technology help you source everything with competitive pricing and rapid lead-times.
 
ASAP IT Technology is a leading distributor of top-quality electronic components and IT hardware, offering customers access to highly requested items from leading manufacturers such as Cisco Memory, Edge Memory, Kingston Memory, and Micron Technology. Take the time to explore our various catalogs at your leisure, and our team of industry experts is readily on standby 24/7x365 to assist you through the purchasing process as necessary. When you are ready to initiate an order, give our team members a call or email at your earliest convenience and they would be more than happy to assist you however they can!

Within the realm of computing, firmware refers to a type of computer software that enables a user to have a certain amount of control over a device’s hardware. In general, such firmware will have been developed by software engineers, ensuring that specific hardware functions as intended by a manufacturer. Firmware can be used for countless electronic systems and devices, ranging from simple traffic lights to the firmware stored on computer hardware. In this blog, we will discuss firmware more in detail, allowing you to understand its importance for electronic hardware.
 
As a set of instructions that are programmed onto hardware, firmware is necessary for a system to have the coding needed to function as intended and communicate with other hardware. To install firmware onto a particular device, such data will typically be stored in the form of ROM. ROM, or read-only memory, is a type of non-volatile memory that is common to electronic devices, and such data is incapable of being modified after the initial writing. With flash ROM, on the other hand, data may be written and rewritten as needed as the memory is a type of flash memory.
 
As firmware is developed and released by a manufacturer, such software programming may be considered semi-permanent due to its static state until any update is made. For various devices such as mobile phones, video cards, and cameras, updates to the firmware may be needed from time to time to ensure their proper functionality and compatibility with new devices. Additionally, firmware updates may even improve the functionality of some devices as software engineers make various advancements to the programming.
 
Depending upon the device in question, firmware updates may be obtainable from the device itself, requiring the user to find the setting required to initiate the update. In other devices, firmware updates may be procured from the website of the manufacturer, often being located in a “Support” or “Download” page. When updating a device from a computer, it will often have to be connected to the computer through a USB connection or other port for transferring data. While updating firmware for devices is not always necessary, it can be highly beneficial if there are changes made for the means of increasing performance or compatibility.
 
Firmware can often be found on a number of devices, commonly being used by a diverse set of consumer products. Electronic devices and mobile phones often have similar firmware, designed for updating programming that may have an effect on the device’s GUI, battery life, capability of playing certain file formats, and more. Mobile phones in particular also have what is known as Firmware Over The Air capability, meaning that updates can be distributed over Wi-Fi or mobile broadband networks. Automobiles also use firmware as well, often being used for sensors that detect mechanical issues, anti-lock braking systems, and computer-operated transmission control units. Beyond such examples, a number of other electronic hardware devices take advantage of firmware for their basic functionalities.
 
When you are in need of USB flash drives, electronics, or other various IT hardware for your firmware applications, look no further than ASAP IT Technology. One our website, customers can find top quality components from leading manufacturers such as Sony Electronics, Dell, Samsung, Fujitsu Siemens, and Maxtor, all of which are readily available for purchase at competitive pricing. Take the time to explore our expansive part catalogs at your leisure, and our team of industry experts are readily available 24/7x365 to assist you through the purchasing process as necessary. If you would like to receive a quote for your comparisons, fill out and submit an Instant RFQ form on our website and a dedicated account manager will reach out to you in 15 minutes or less to continue the process.

With the commonality of credit cards, debit cards, and emerging forms of mobile payments, retail locations, restaurants, and other sellers have had to change systems to accommodate the shift from paper based currency to digital formats. The point-of-sale (POS) terminal is a hardware device that is a standard in the retail industry, enabling the processing of card and mobile payments with embedded software. As POS terminals are commonplace in many industries for the means of conducting transactions, it can be useful to understand their functionalities and capabilities.
 
When purchasing an item in a store with a credit card, a typical POS terminal will first read the magnetic strip of the card so that it can gain information and access a bank account. When funds are checked and are determined to be sufficient, the funds are automatically transferred between the customer’s and seller’s accounts. After the payment has been made, the transaction is recorded and a receipt may either be printed, emailed, or texted to the customer based on the system and preferences. While simplistic seeming, such devices have revolutionized how stores across the globe conduct transactions, enabling an ease of sale and transfers.
 
If there is a need for POS terminals or POS terminal accessories, one may either choose to purchase a terminal or lease one. While purchasing a terminal comes with more upfront costs, leasing one can eventually run a higher price over long periods of time. Currently, there is also a major trend of moving away from conventional hardware to software based systems that may be operated on either a mobile device or tablet. This is in addition to the portable and mobile POS devices currently being manufactured by terminal producers, allowing for more flexibility in transactions.
 
The mobility of payments is one trend that a number businesses are attempting to take advantage of, due to the fact that many customers do not like to have to wait to pay for something. As such, mobility and user-friendliness is very beneficial for a POS terminal to ensure that transactions may be made with ease. As emerging mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Samsung Pay continue to become more widespread and adopted, newer POS terminals have been designed to accept such payment methods to increase inclusiveness.
 
Beyond the ability to read credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments for transferring funds, a number of POS terminals will also provide other various features to increase the capabilities of such systems. As many people still pay with cash, stores will often have POS systems that have a cash drawer for making change and storing funds. In order for products to be read in the first place for specific types of transactions, it can also be useful to have terminals with barcode scanners. For the means of transparency and so that customers may always be aware of what they owe, it is highly recommended that a seller uses a POS terminal that features a customer facing display. Lastly, receipt printers are also common for when paper based transaction records are desirable.
 
Whether you are in need of POS terminal parts or POS terminal accessories, ASAP IT Technology has you covered with products from top manufacturers such as Panasonic, Bematech, Tyco Electronics, NCR Corporation, and Elo Touch Solutions. As you pursue our massive inventory of items, you may request a quote for your comparisons at any time through the submission of an RFQ form. As our team members are readily available for customers 24/7x365, you may receive a response to your request in just 15 minutes or less. Give us a call or email today and see how we can help you fulfill all your operational needs with ease.

Audio and visual systems have greatly advanced over the years, and multiple technologies have come about for the transferring of such signals. An A/V device is one that utilizes audio/visual signals that are relayed from electronic equipment capable of generating an A/V output. A/V control panels or terminals can be found on numerous electronic equipment, including televisions, DVD and VHS recorders, and more.
 
When referring to the A/V source of an entertainment system or electronic appliance, one is referencing the various media storage or media creations devices that are being used to relay content to an output device. There are numerous A/V devices that may be considered a source, and common examples include Blu-ray players, digital TV A/V receivers, streaming devices, and much more. Many electronics with the ability to record video and audio with playback functionality can also be considered an A/V source, and these include camcorders, digital cameras, tablets, smart phones, and other such devices. With this general rule of what is considered a source, there are many equipment pieces and electronics that fall under such categorization.
 
In order for A/V signals to be used, one needs an A/V receiver. A/V receivers are devices that retrieve the audio and video signals from a source so that they may be relayed to an output. For instance, the A/V receiver may take audio and video signals from a Blu-ray player and send them to a television and speaker set so that the signals may be displayed or heard as necessary. Some equipment may also take advantage of A/V modulators, those of which may be used to convert an RF input into an A/V signal.
 
While A/V devices have long served home entertainment applications, they can also be highly beneficial for workplaces as well. As workplaces continue their shift towards digitalization, an increased reliance on A/V equipment has come about. Depending on the operations of a workplace and the role of their business, there may be numerous laptops, tablets, smartphones, video communication devices, and other such electronics used. To ensure that all of these devices can properly communicate and transfer A/V signals without frustration, it can be very beneficial to have A/V control panels.
 
With A/V control panels, workplaces can avoid the hassle of having missing or inoperable controls, tangled up cables, poor connection quality, and other issues that can detract from conducting operations. The A/V control panel serves as a central hub for managing systems, acting as the point where all equipment is connected. Additionally, A/V control panels make managing systems simple as one interface can be used for the control of all devices, rather than requiring manual operation of each. As there are professional and consumer-grade A/V control panels available for equipment management, it can be useful to compare the various specifications and capabilities of different models to find what is best for your particular needs.
 
When you are ready to begin sourcing the various A/V modulators, control panels, receivers, and other such equipment that you require for your operations, look no further than ASAP IT Solutions. As a leading online parts distributor, we can help you secure the items on your part list with competitive pricing and rapid lead-times. To ensure that customers only receive the best quality electronic components, we choose to source our items from top global manufacturers we trust, including those such as Steren Electronics, Db Research L.L.P, and Epson. Upon finding parts that you would like to purchase, you may request a quote for your comparisons through the submission of a request for quote form as provided on our website. Once we have reviewed your provided information, a member of our staff will quickly reach out to you with a personalized solution to your needs.

As work from home initiatives continue across the world for the safety of many workers, numerous individuals are facing work transitions that require more hardware in the home than one may be familiar with. From the use of multiple monitors to more robust networking hardware that may enable more productive and permanent solutions for at-home work, the amount of connections, peripherals, and cabling required for a home office may be stressful for someone who is not well versed in IT hardware. To make establishing optimal work from home stations easier, many individuals can take advantage of hardware equipment known as docking stations.
 
While some jobs may only require a notebook and headset to carry out most tasks, other positions may need multiple peripherals, monitors, and other hardware equipment to ensure that all tasks can be carried out efficiently. With each new hardware piece added to a station, more connections and cable management solutions are also needed. At some point, there may be no more ports or connection points provided on the computer itself. Docking stations serve to alleviate this issue and come in the form of a dock or hub that may facilitate the connection and organization of multiple power cords, USB cords, adapters, chargers, converters, and other hardware depending upon the design of the dock.
 
Depending on one’s needs and their position, there are a number of docking station types that one may take advantage of. Port replicators or hubs are a simplistic type that is similar in appearance to a power strip or surge protector, though they may feature a number of connection types outside of power outlets. Coming in numerous configurations, a port replicator may have electrical adaptors, audio jacks, peripheral connection points, display connectors, and more. Based on the number of connections and connection types one may need, such docking stations can range in price from cheap and simplistic hubs to pricier, advanced models.
 
A breakout dock is another variation of docking stations that replicates existing ports already present on the computer as well as may supply additional ports. In order for hardware to optimally function while connected to the breakout dock, many modern computers will provide a special connector that consolidates concealed trace signals so that more ports than present on the computer may be established. As laptops are often limited in the amount of ports that one may take advantage of, breakout ports are very beneficial.
 
OEM or proprietary docking stations are similar to breakout devices, and such equipment may utilize converters to provide multiple connections from one port. As such devices are often proprietary, they may be permanently installed to equipment and are often self-powered so that they can benefit notebooks. On the other hand, OEM docks regularly provide users with dual displays, a wired internet connection point, and various USB and audio connections.
 
For more diverse solutions, one may also turn to universal or third party dock equipment which may come in numerous configurations and types. Many non-OEM docks will be USB-C or Thunderbolt-3 based and will contain various converters for the facilitation of USB connections, audio devices, modems, memory cards, and more. If one has multiple devices that range in manufacturer, application, and/or connection type, universal docks are a popular choice to avoid complications in setting up a workstation.
 
Having a functional and well organized workstation is important for efficiency, and docking stations are a perfect solution for those needing more ports or connections. At ASAP IT Technology, we provide customers access to top quality docking stations and related components that have been sourced from manufacturers such as Viewsonic, Getac Technology, Kensington, and others. Peruse our expansive part catalogs and find top part numbers such as WA995UT ABA, USB3SDOCKHD, and 40A20170US all readily available for purchase through our website. To receive a competitive quote for your comparisons, fill out and submit an Instant RFQ form on our website and a dedicated account manager will reach out to you in 15 minutes or less, 24/7x365.