What is RAM and Its Types (Random Access Memory)

RAM stands for Random Access Memory. It is called the Primary or Main Memory of the computer systems. A RAM is a volatile type of memory, which loses the data or instruction in the case of power off or insurrection of power.

In this memory data and programs of the computer system are temporarily stored, Because of the volatile type of memory. The Main memory of the computer system works with the CPU to store data and instructions. RAM of the computer system is made of some integrated circuit (IC) chips. 

What is RAM Meaning?

It is the place in the computer system where data and instructions take place after inputting and processing information while returning information to the output device. So it stores data only temporarily and it requires continuous electrical current to store data and instructions.

Storage Evaluation Criteria of RAM

1. Storage Capacity

The storage capacity of primary memory is limited. A large storage capacity of RAM is desirable.

2. Access Time

This memory is a Random Access type. So, this memory has faster access time than secondary storage to access data. Fast access time is preferable in this memory.

3. Cost per bit

The low cost of this type of memory is desirable. So, this memory is expensive as compared to secondary storage.

4. Volatile

This type of memory losses data in the case of power off or in-corruption of power. So, it is a volatile type of memory.

5. Random Access

This type of memory is independent of accessing the data from anywhere in the storage unit, so it is called Random Access Memory or Random Access Storage. 

Types of RAM in Computer

A RAM of a computer system has two types, Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) and Static Random Access Memory (SRAM)

1. What is DRAM (Dynamic RAM)?

This type of RAM uses external circuitry to regenerate or refresh the stored data. It stored data in capacitors. It requires constant refreshing of its contents.

This type of RAM is cheapen than SRAM but this type of RAM is slower as compared to SRAM. And it consumes high power. These memories have greater storage capacity.

2. What is SRAM (Static RAM)?

This type of RAM does not require refreshing its contents. And it uses transistors to store data and instructions.  It retains its contents till the computer is working.

Mostly, this type of RAM is used in cache memories. It uses low power and this type of RAM is faster than DRAM. But these RAM are expensive in price. And these memories have a low capacity to store data.

Difference Between DRAM and SRAM

SRAM

a). This type of RAM uses transistors to store data or instructions.

b). It does not require refreshing to store data.

c). It is more expensive than Dynamic RAM.

d). This type of RAM is used in cache memories.

e). Data accessing is fast in SRAM.

DRAM

a) These memories use capacitors to store data or instructions.

b). It requires to continue refreshing to store data in it.

c). These memories are cheapen than SRAM.

d). This type of memory used in main memory.

e). Data accessing time in these memories are very slow.

Tags

computer-fundamentals

• Newer

• Older