RAM, Types of RAM, advantages of RAM, Shortcomings of RAM

RAM, Types of RAM, advantages of RAM, Shortcomings of RAM

In this tutorial, we will learn about the followings;

RAM, Types of RAM, advantages of RAM, Shortcomings of RAM

RAM

Ram stands for random access memory. Ram is a form of computer data storage that stores data and machine code currently being used. A random-access memory device allows data items to be read or written in almost the same amount of time irrespective of the physical location of data inside the memory. Usually, more than one bit of storage is accessed by the same address, and RAM devices often have multiple data lines and said to be “8 bit or 16 bit” etc.

RAM Random access memory
Figure: RAM Random access memory

Two types of RAM

  • SRAM Stand for static ram. SRAM is a type of semiconductor memory that uses bistable latching circuitry to store each bit. Its data is lost when memory is not powered.
  • SRAM is faster and more expensive than DRAM.
  • DRAM stands for dynamic ram. The DRAM is a type of random access memory that stores each bit of data in a separate capacitor can either be charged or discharged.

SRAM VS DRAM

Feature DRAM  SRAM 
Volatility Volatile Volatile
Performance Slower On-chip memory with minimal access time; can run at the speed of the host microprocessor
Use case Main memory Level 1 microprocessor caches

Level 2 microprocessor caches

Power Generally higher power. Generally lower power.
Storage capacity Larger and measured in GBs Smaller and measured in MBs
Density 1 transistor per chip 6 transistors per chip
Cost Cheaper More expensive
Physical placement Motherboard Processors or physically placed between processor and main memory

How RAM works?

When we start our computer, then first of all programs, instructions and data are temporarily loaded/ stored in RAM. When RAM ready for the instructions and data then CPU performs the arithmetic and logical operations. 

Most of the computers have multiple slots for putting the RAM on the motherboard. 

Advantages of RAM

Shortcomings of RAM

  • Less RAM is a factor to decrease the speed of a computer.
  • If CPU wants to read the data from RAM, then it is slow as compared to data access from registers and cache.

DVD RAM advantages

DVD-RAM discs can be rewritten over many many times. For example it can be over 100,000.
Data storage on DVD-RAM is reliable and can be store for many years.
Total storage capacity of DVD-RAM is 4.7GB and 9.4GB If your disc is double sided.
The speed of DVD-RAM for overwriting the data is much faster and easier than CD/DVD-RW.

Advantages of dual channel ram

Dual channel RAM means that we are adding more channels of communication between the memory and the memory controller. So its increase data transfer speed.

Nano ram advantages

  • Faster
  • Low power consumption
  • Data storage
  • Boot up
  • dense

Difference Between RAM and SSD