Random Access Memory (RAM)
RAM
RAM (Random Access Memory) is the computer’s temporary memory storage. Every time we close a program or shutdown our computer the memories processed by RAM are erased. A different set of memories begins to occupy RAM again as we start accessing our computers.
RAM works hand in hand with a computer’s hard disk. Hard disk holds the entire source of data for each program installed inside a computer while RAM on the other hand holds only access on the specified data of the program necessary for the current time.
Unlike RAM, a computer hard disk simply rejects additional data when it has already reached its maximum space capacity. RAM does not reject overwhelming amount of data, which slows it down and results to overall poor computer performance.
Types of RAM
Different types of computer memories have been developed to accommodate larger amount of information.
Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM)
SRAM is an expensive type of RAM compared to DRAM. For similar reason DRAM is more popular type of RAM in the market. SRAM provides faster access time at 10 nanoseconds while a DRAM offers six times slower access time speed at 60 nanoseconds. DRAM requires more access time because it has to refresh numerous times during data processing, which is not necessary for an SRAM.
Types of DRAM
FPM DRAM (Fast Page Mode RAM)
FPM DRAM is the pioneer form of DRAM, which operates on a bit by bit process to locate a data.
EDO DRAM (Extended Data Out DRAM)
The EDO DRAM has faster memory technology compared to FPM DRAM. It eliminates the bit-by-bit data seeking process. Instead it was designed to directly operate on the intended bit without having to scan through all the data bits until it is finally situated to its final bit destination.
SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM)
SDRAM initially operated at 66MHz, which is 16MHz faster than the maximum speed of its predecessor - EDO and DRAM. It can support up to 133 MHz and on certain occasions can go as gar as 180 MHz.
DDR (Double Data Rate SDRAM)
DDR’s transfer pattern is similar to that of a clock’s ticking, which is twice the speed of regular SDRAM. It runs at 333MHz using two166MHz. DDR has a different physical composition compared to SDRAM that makes them incompatible when used in a similar computer.
RDRAM (Rambus DRAM)
RDRAM is the fastest type of RAM and are expensive. It is also more vulnerable to latency. They are most compatible with Pentium 4 computers because of their multiple channel technology – Rambus channel that is similar to these computer models.
RDRAM operates in a very high speed that they produce excessive heat. A heat spreader is designed along with this memory card to caution its high temperature.
Credit Card Memory - PCMCIA Memory Card
Credit card and PCMCIA memory cards are both self contained and proprietary DRAM memory cards. These two are both commonly used on laptop and other mobile computers and are known to operate only on specified system requirements.
CMOS RAM
CMOS RAM provides the memory setting for computer hardware devices. It is powered by small battery, which allows it to steadily contain small amount of information.
VRAM (Video RAM)
VRAM or MPDRAM (Multiport Dynamic Random Access Memory) is particularly developed to accommodate graphic accelerators and adapters. VRAMs are situated on graphic cards. The VRAM’s specification figures the depth of your computer’s graphic color and resolution.
Before deciding which RAM is most appropriate for you it is important to first check your computer’s requirements. Some computers may only be able to support certain types of RAM while others may require pairing of RAM installation. Different operating system also requires different amounts of RAM.
These are only among the few things that you need to consider when choosing the most suitable RAM speed and Ram type for your computer.
About the Author
Jack Pyde is a freelance writer who the author of articles such as RAM, Types of RAM, and What is RAM Visit Random Access Memory (RAM).
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