RAM Computer Memory
There are many definitions for RAM computer memory, but basically, RAM stands for random access memory. It is memory that can be accessed randomly and it is the best and most common type of memory there is. Some refer to it as the main memory of a computer. It is not to be mistaken for ROM type of memory. Although both can be accessed randomly, ROM stands for read-only-memory.
There are two main types of RAM computer memory. The first one is static RAM (SRAM). It is the fastest type of memory because it does not ever have to be refreshed. The other type is Dynamic RAM (DRAM), and it has to be refreshed constantly, which slows it down. There are several types of DRAM all of which have specific performance and speed levels. Both SRAM and DRAM memory types have their pros and cons. SRAM may be faster, but because it uses four to six transistors, it takes up more space on a memory chip, making less memory available. DRAM takes up less space because it only uses a pair of transistors. This makes it the least expensive of the two types.
Another type of RAM computer memory is the CMOS RAM. It is the reason your computer has a battery. CMOS RAM may be small but it is mighty. It holds vital information pertaining to your hard drive. If it loses power, you will lose your hard drive configuration information and be unable to boot up your computer. In newer computers, CMOS RAM is being replaced by non-volatile RAM. It still runs by battery, but even if it loses power, you will still be able to reboot your system.
Now that you know a few things about RAM computer memory, you may want to know how much you need for your computer. The answer is that you can never have enough, but if your computer is running slow, even after you’ve done all the procedures to clear up space, like fragmentation, and disk clean up, its time to upgrade. The amount of memory you need for optimal computer performance depends on your operating system. With most standard Windows and Mac operating systems, 128MB is a good place to start, you can always go up from there. If you would like a more in depth look at RAM computer memory and how it works, you can go to http://computer.howstuffworks.com/ram5.htm.
