What is RAM: We are brought into a place where we need electronic devices like computers, smartphones, etc in every place and purpose. So, everybody owns a laptop, tablet, or smartphone for business purposes, personal use, study purposes, office purposes, etc.
While buying such a new device or while discussing a device, we may have heard the term RAM very often. However, some people know what RAM exactly means and its role in a device while most of us lack that knowledge.
Having a proper idea about RAM(Random Access Memory) will help you to choose the right device if you are planning to buy one. It is made simple through this guide and it will not cost you to stay a while here to know everything about what is RAM.
Table of Contents
What is RAM(Random Access Memory)?
As everyone knows, RAM stands for Random Access Memory which is one of the two types of Computer Memory alongside ROM or the hardware in a computing device. It can be read and changed in any mode which is used to store working data and machine code.
In other terms, RAM is used to temporarily store data that the computer is currently using or processing. Also, we call it a system’s short-term memory where active data is stored for quick access. Now, you probably have an idea about what is RAM through this section.
In addition, this memory allows your computer’s CPU (Processor) to retrieve data much faster than Hard Disk Drive (HDD) and Solid State Drive (SDD) which are used for longer-term storage. All computing devices including desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones have RAM.
Difference Between RAM and ROM
We have to have a good understanding of computer memory as people often get confused with RAM and ROM which are the two types of memory.
RAM: RAM is a volatile memory that is used for storing data while the computer is running. We can access the data stored in RAM quickly and it will be lost when the device is turned off. It is commonly used in devices like computers and smartphones to facilitate tasks and processes which enhances multitasking and application performance.
ROM: ROM is a non-volatile memory that is used for storing firmware or permanent software that boots up the system. You can not modify the data in RAM easily and it remains intact even when you power down the device. It is also used in all devices like computers, smartphones, etc, to store important software that initializes hardware and manages system settings.
Definition of RAM in Computer
The history of RAM probably dates back to the 1940s and 1950s which is linked with magnetic core memory as it used tiny magnetic rings threaded with wires to store data. Due to its reliability and relatively high speed, this form of memory was used until the mid-1970s.
However, in the 1960s, semiconductor-based RAM was invented which was faster, smaller, and more energy-efficient than the previous magnetic ones. DRAM(Dynamic RAM) was the first commercially available RAM introduced in the 1970s by Intel as the Intel 1103 held only 1KB of data but it was a breakthrough in terms of size and speed.
Correspondingly, current-day RAM is typically based on solid-state technologies and still improves in speed, capacity, and power efficiency. For example, you can witness the ongoing transition in consumer electronics from DDR3 to DDR4 to DDR5 to DDR6.
Each upgrade supports higher transfer rates and greater energy efficiency. It is important for supporting high-end gaming, server applications, and data-intensive processing in AI and machine learning.
Types of RAM
Based on specific functions and performance characteristics, RAM comes in different types as given below.
#DRAM (Dynamic RAM)
DRAM stands for Dynamic RAM which stores data in separate capacitors with an integrated circuit requiring constant refreshing to maintain data integrity. This RAM is commonly used in general computing devices which is slower but expensive. It is made of tiny capacitors which can store many bits per chip. DRAM is used for main memory which requires a recharge every milliseconds to maintain its data.
#SRAM (Static RAM)
SRAM stands for Static RAM which uses multiple transistors per memory cell and does not require refreshing. This RAM makes it more faster and more reliable than DRAM which is ideal for high-speed applications like CPU cache. It is made of circuits similar to D flip-flops which can not store many bits per chip. SRAM is used for cache which holds its content as long as power is available.
#VRAM
As DRAM and SRAM are the two main types of RAM, VRAM is optimized for graphics processors which stands for Video RAM. It is designed to handle rapid read and write cycles needed for rendering images which is necessary for video gaming and editing.
#Other Types of Memory
- SDRAM:
- It is a type of DRAM that operates in synchronization with the system clock improving efficiency by aligning data transfers to clock cycles for faster accessing. Also, this type is ideal for applications requiring high performance and speed like advanced PCs, servers, and gaming systems.
- Flash Memory:
- It is the type of non-volatile memory that retains data without power and it is used for storing data for a longer time. Flash memory is commonly found in USB flash drives, SSDs, and other storage devices where durable data storage is required.
- Virtual Memory:
- It is a memory management capability of an Operating System that uses both hardware and software. This is to allow a computer to compensate for physical memory shortages temporarily storing data from RAM to Disk Storage. Virtual memory is used in Operating Systems to extend the available memory by using a part of the hard drive as additional RAM.
Suggested for you – What is SSD (Solid State Drive)?
How does RAM work?
Once a program is executed, the CPU first sends a request to the RAM to get necessary data which includes program instructions or information the program needs to function. This is the Memory Read and Write process where it is placed in a specific address which can be retrieved later.
Each piece of data in RAM has a unique address and the CPU specifies this address when it needs to access data. This is a Memory addressing System that allows the CPU to efficiently find and manipulate data within RAM.
Then, Data Storage and Access Speeds is the next step in which RAM consists of tiny cells that can store data. The speed of RAM is very important as it affects how quickly apps can run and how responsive the system feels to the user.
Uses of RAM
- Computers: In computers and laptops, RAM allows for the smooth operation of software applications and Operating Systems as it allows the system to handle multiple tasks at once.
- Servers: RAM supports the processing of multiple requests from various users without slowing down where higher RAM capacities are required for database management and large-scale transaction processing.
- Mobile Devices: RAM helps manage multiple apps running in the background of tablets or smartphones. It helps switch between apps smoothly and supports advanced functioning like HD video playback, gaming, etc.
- Speed and Responsiveness: Higher RAM means faster processing speeds and more responsive devices. It reduced the need for the processor to fetch data from slower storage components like HDD and SSD.
- Multitasking Capabilities: Devices with higher RAM can run multiple applications simultaneously without any performance hitches.
How much RAM do you need?
- 4GB RAM is for normal web browsing, and basic app usage, and it is great for students.
- 8GB RAM is suitable for heavy multitasking, light gaming, and minimum for work PCs.
- 16GB RAM is perfect for normal gaming, and light video editing, and it will be minimal for most programmers.
- 32GB RAM is suitable for hardcore gaming, heavy video editing, and Professional 3D design and Programming.
Conclusion
Hopefully, we have gone through almost all the details of RAM, what is RAM, its types, and its uses in this article. You can gain some knowledge if you are about to buy a new electronic device like a laptop, smartphone, etc. Thus this will help you to choose the best device with good RAM capacity based on your requirements.
