Random-Access Memory (RAM)

This are the tipes of Random-Access Memory (RAM):

  1. SRAM

SRAM (static RAM) is random access memory (RAM) that retains data bits in its memory as long as power is being supplied.

SRAM does not have to be periodically refreshed. Static RAM provides faster access to data and is more expensive than DRAM. SRAM is used for a computer’s cache memory and as part of the random access memory digital-to-analog converter on a video card.

  1. DRAM

Dynamic random access memory (DRAM) is a type of memory that is typically used for data or program code that a computer processor needs to function. DRAM is a common type of random access memory (RAM) used in personal computers (PCs), workstations and servers. Random access allows the PC processor to access any part of the memory directly rather than having to proceed sequentially from a starting place. RAM is located close to a computer’s processor and enables faster access to data than storage media such as hard disk drives and solid-state drives.

DRAM stores each bit of data or program code in a storage cell consisting of a capacitor and a transistor, and is typically organized in a rectangular configuration of storage cells. A DRAM storage cell is dynamic in that it needs to be refreshed or given a new electronic charge every few milliseconds to compensate for charge leaks from the capacitor.

DRAM is one option of semiconductor memory that a system designer can use when building a computer.

The main advantages of DRAM are its simple design, speed and low cost in comparison to alternative types of memory. The main disadvantages of DRAM are volatility and high power consumption relative to other options.

There are many types or interfaces for communicating with DRAM. They include fast page mode DRAM (FPM DRAM), extended data out DRAM (EDO RAM) and synchronous DRAM (SDRAM). SDRAM is a generic name for types of DRAM synchronized with the clock speed of the microprocessor. They include single data rate (SDR) SDRAM, double data rate (DDR) SDRAM, DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM and DDR4 SDRAM.