What is RAM ?
The full name of RAM is Random Access Memory. It is also called main memory and primary memory. Data and instructions of the work currently being done by the CPU are stored in RAM. This memory is part of the CPU. Therefore its data can be directly accessed. In this computer memory, data and instructions are stored in cells. Each cell is made up of some rows and columns, which have their own unique address. This unique address is also called Cell Path. CPU can receive different data from these cells. And that too without sequence, meaning the data available in RAM can be accessed randomly. Perhaps because of this characteristic, this memory has been named Random Access Memory. RAM is a volatile memory. Therefore, the data stored in it does not remain stored forever. As long as the power supply to the RAM remains on. Till then the data remains. When the computer shuts down, all the data in RAM gets automatically deleted.
Characteristics of Computer RAM :
- Are part of the CPU.
- Without this the computer cannot do its work.
- It is the primary memory of a computer.
- Available data can be accessed randomly.
- Temporary but fast.
- RAM is expensive.
- Different from storage.
Different types of RAM :
Computers are continuously developing. Due to which other important parts of it have also had to be upgraded. Which also includes RAM. RAM has also evolved to become available with different performance characteristics. Which can be divided into two main types.
- sram
- DRAM
1. SRAM
The full name of SRAM is Static Random Access Memory. In which the word “Static” tells that the data in this RAM remains stable. And there is no need to refresh it again and again. This RAM is also volatile memory. Therefore, data remains present in it as long as the power is on. As soon as the power is turned off, all the data gets automatically deleted. This memory is used as Cache Memory.
2. DRAM
The full name of DRAM is Dynamic Random Access Memory. In which the word “Dynamic” means moving. That means always changing. Therefore this RAM has to be refreshed continuously. Only then can data be stored in it.
DDR3 RAM is a good example of this memory :
DRAM is used as the main memory of CPU. Because data can be obtained randomly from it. And new data keeps getting stored in it automatically. Due to which the working capacity of CPU remains fast.
DRAM is also volatile. Therefore, in this also the data remains stored only till the power supply is on. Nowadays, only DRAM is used in devices like Computers, Smartphones, Tablets etc. Because it is also cheaper than SRAM.