RAM and Types of RAM(Random Access Memory)

What is RAM?

RAM is the hardware device where the data, operating system, and application programs are kept which are currently use, so they can be quickly accessed by the processor. RAM is the main memory of a computer system. A computer system is not working without RAM. 

Characteristics of RAM

1) It is volatile memory i.e.contents are lost when power is switched off.

2) It is the fastest memory which means that the computer is not kept waiting for data to process

3) It is more expensive than secondary memory.

4) It is used to store temporary information.

Function of RAM

The main function of RAM is to provide fast temporary storage for data and programs, which includes both applications and the operating system along with hardware drivers.

When you start a program on your system, the CPU fetches the program from the hard drive. Once your system fetches files, the system requires a workspace where this data temporarily store and execute. Here RAM works as a digital countertop to perform this task.

Apart from this function, more RAM can help you improve your system speed and performance. You can increase RAM space as per your system configuration for better results.

Types of RAM

RAM is classified are as follows:

1) SRAM(Static RAM)

2) DRAM(Dynamic RAM)

SRAM(Static RAM)

SRAM(Static Random Access Memory) is a semiconductor memory. It is static memory so there is no need to refreshed as long as power is applied to the memory. Static RAM provides faster access to data and is more expensive than DRAM(Dynamic RAM). It is a volatile memory which means contents are lost when power is switched off. 

Static RAM is fast because four to six transistors are used in each SRAM memory cell. Each cell in SRAM is made of a flip flop that stores one bit. Flip-flop circuits keep the current flowing in one direction or the other (0 or 1). The 0 or 1 state can be written and read instantly without waiting for a capacitor to fill up or drain.

DRAM(Dynamic RAM)

DRAM is widely used in digital electronics where low-cost and high-capacity memory is required. It is used as a computer’s main memory. In DRAM, each memory cell is made up of one transistor and one capacitor. It stores each bit of data on a separate capacitor. The capacitor starts losing its charge and hence information stored in it to drain. The capacitors in DRAM need to constantly be refreshed to keep their charge, so DRAM requires more power than SRAM.

Difference between SRAM and DRAM

  

Volatile Memory

Non Volatile Memory