Random Access Memory (RAM): Its Types & Uses
Random Access Memory, or RAM, is a type of memory in which the information it stores is lost as soon as the power supply to the PC, laptop, or other type of device is switched off. RAM is widely known and is considered the main type of memory, temporary memory, cache memory, or
volatile memory of a computer system or similar device. This blog will explain the types of RAM, their differences, and their uses.
RAM is considered part of a computer's internal/main/primary memory. There are many types of RAM, the two most common being Static RAM (SRAM) and Dynamic RAM (DRAM).
SRAM is a type of ram in which data is stored using the state of a six transistor memory cell. It is primarily used as cache memory for the processor. Dynamic RAM, on the other hand, allows users to store each bit of data in a separate capacitor within a given integrated circuit.
Dynamic RAM is the standard computer memory used in most modern desktop computers. It is an example of volatile memory, meaning it needs to be refreshed with voltage regularly or it will lose whatever information is stored on it. Apart from these, here are the main differences between SRAM and DRAM:
1. SRAM has a low access time, while DRAM has a high access time. Therefore, SRAM is faster than DRAM.
2. SRAM is the more expensive of the two.
3. SRAM requires a constant power supply, meaning this type of memory uses more power. DRAM offers reduced power consumption because the information is stored in the capacitor.
4. SRAM features a complex internal circuitry and offers less storage capacity when compared to a DRAM chip of the same physical size. DRAM comprises a small internal circuitry in its one-bit memory. This allows for a larger storage capacity.
5. SRAM has a low packaging density, while DRAM’s is high.
Beyond SRAM and DRAM, there are many other important, albeit less common, types of RAM. These are: FPM DRAM, SDR RAM, RD RAM, VRAM, and Flash Memory. FPM DRAM, or Fast Page Mode DRAM, is a type of DRAM that waits for the entire process of locating a bit of data by column and row and reading the bit before moving to the next one. SDR RAM, synchronous dynamic access memory, stores data using integrated circuits. One of its sides features a termination which can be inserted directly into the motherboard.
VRAM is a type of RAM optimized for video adapters. VRAM chips have two ports allowing video data to be written to chips while the video adapter simultaneously reads the memory to refresh the monitor's display. RD RAM, or Rambus Dynamic RAM, is a type of RAM that works in parallel to each other, allowing users to secure a data rate of 1,600 Mbps. Because they operate at high speeds, they generate a great deal of heat. Finally, flash memory is an electrically erasable and programmable type of permanent memory.
Flash drives utilize the memory of one transistor to store a bit. These offer low power consumptions and are very affordable.
RAM has many important uses in computers, where it can serve as a scratchpad, buffer, or main memory. It offers a fast operating speed, low power dissipation, and is highly compatible with a wide range of systems. For RAM and many other
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