Computer memory is probably one of the most commonly used words with respect to computers. As computer memory forms the backbone of any system- be it laptop, desktop or server, it is essential to answer the question – what is computer memory? It is the key feature that deals with handling data and processing information. A computer memory works as the location that stores all the information. It has all the necessary data required for running a variety of applications. As a storehouse for all the applications and processes, it turns into an essential component.
Computer memory or computer random access memory (RAM) stores the information in an easily accessible manner. When you are running a particular application, your computer can access the data stored in the memory and ensure proper functioning. In the absence of memory, your CPU cannot perform any applications or functions as it lacks access to the required data. As it is essential for running applications, it determines the overall capability of your system. The system can access data from the memory on a short-term basis. It means whenever any application or process demands a particular set of details, it can be obtained from the memory or RAM.
Introduction- what is computer memory or RAM
Computer memory or RAM is also called a storehouse of data. It affects the overall functioning or capability since it stores the information within the memory. It has the information that is actively used by your programs. This translates to real-time demand for data. If you are using many programs and applications at once, you will need a good computer memory for handling such a demand. In order to ensure optimum performance, you must opt for a computer memory that is capable enough for storing the necessary data.
It affects the speed and performance of your system. Hence, it is absolutely essential to determine the type of activities and applications according to your usage. After you get a rough idea of your programs and usability, you can opt for a memory that can handle the data. If you have little memory that cannot store all the information, you will experience slow processing. The system may not respond to all your applications, creating issues and troubles on a continuous basis. But the solution is not to add too much computer memory too.
Old or unused RAM
It is essential to check the applications and system demand before settling for the right RAM. You can check out if your computer needs more memory and opt for an upgrade. If you choose to upgrade your memory, you can sell us the used memory at BuySellRam.com. We accept old memory so you can get rid of the old stuff, while at the same time gaining a good value in return. You can use the money for upgrading to a new memory that is compatible. It is beneficial to know if all the components are compatible with the new computer memory before opting for an upgrade.
When you are looking for an upgrade for your RAM, you must find out the speed and latency. This can be used as a way to determine if the RAM is right for your system. Latency refers to the time gap between entering a command and finding it available for your usage. In short, if the speed and latency is faster, you can expect a quick response time while performing any activities. It allows you to handle multiple tasks without slowing down the system.
What does computer memory or RAM do?
Computer memory or RAM can be viewed as a short-term memory. Because it stores the data on a temporary basis, it is much faster for handling large loads of data. This makes it possible to use a variety of applications at the same time and at a faster speed. If you have a low memory capacity, you cannot manage multiple tasks with maximum productivity.
The RAM stores bits of data on a temporary basis with an open accessibility. It can be used multiple times depending on the requirement. But as the name suggests, it is stored in a random manner for a short-while. When the computer is turned off, the memory can no longer provide the necessary data.
Computer memory performs a wide variety of tasks on your system. For example, if you are browsing the internet, it requires data from the memory to perform such a task. It is also essential when you are performing more than one task. It can save the data from one application into the memory, while allowing you to start with next.
Significance of computer memory
If you do not have sufficient memory, you would find it difficult for your work. It may either slow your overall productivity and make it difficult to switch between the different tasks. By opting for a high memory, you can ensure that all the activities can be handled.
If you are writing a document in Word or editing a spreadsheet, the system stores and accesses information into the memory. If you are in the middle of this editing, you open the browser to check your email, the computer memory stores all the steps as it is for your quick processing.
An excellent way to understand what is computer memory is to compare it with a desk. Like you use the desk for performing a variety of tasks such as placing your files, opening a document, writing on it, and many such processes, the memory does the same with the applications and functions. If you have a larger desk, you can accommodate more resources for all your activities. Similarly, if you have a large and upgraded memory, you can perform many activities without any significant lag in the system. It allows you to accomplish more.
Computer memory for the system
Computer memory represents a temporary form of storage. The right capacity of memory for your work shall depend on the profile of your activities. If you enjoy intensive gaming or designing, you may require more memory. If you are working on an email on the internet browser, it loads the program to RAM. This makes it easy for the program to access any data from the RAM and communicate with the processor at faster speed. Instead of relying on any form of hard drive for permanent storage, the RAM provides opportunities for handling short packets of data but at a faster rate.
RAM or memory is present in the form of short chips on the motherboard. It is directly integrated into the circuit board or installed in the form of memory modules. With the help of RAM, your system can handle any data at faster speed and as and when required. It allows more applications and processes at the same time. The data is not stored at any fixed spot like in a hard drive that consists of files and folders.
As RAM handles data and communication with the processor, it acts as a shorter, faster, and easier way to communicate with the CPU. This fast and direct approach makes it convenient for using multiple applications. The random-access nature of the RAM means you can store, access, and handle on a short-term and temporary basis.
Difference between computer memory and storage:
Memory and storage are interchangeable terms. Many times, people assume that memory and storage perform the same set of functions in the system. However, that is not the case. Both memory and storage represent separate ways of storing data. Memory or RAM is purely temporary. This means it is relevant and operational only for a short term while using the computer. On the other hand, a hard drive represents the permanent data in the system. It includes all the files, folders, images, media, videos, and other information on your computer.
Hard drive or storage is the permanent memory for your system. You can also call RAM as memory or primary storage, and hard drive as storage or secondary storage. A hard drive always has more capacity than memory or RAM. For example, usually RAM capacity may fall between 1GB to 16GB. While hard drives may have capacity of several gigabytes or sometimes as high as a terabyte.
Types of computer memory:
There are two types of computer memory – ROM and RAM. The ROM stands for read-only memory, while RAM represents random access memory.
ROM and types of ROM:
The first type called ROM or read-only memory can be only read. It is not possible to modify or edit the data. But the data has a variety of applications. It is not possible to modify the data that makes it a spot for short-term storage. There are three categories with ROM- PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM.
PROM or programmable read-only memory is a computer chip that is programmable after creating it. When the chip is ready, you can program, save, and process on a permanent basis. You cannot replace or erase it.
EPROM or erasable programmable read-only memory is reprogrammable if necessary. While reprogramming, it is possible to erase the old data and replace it with a new one. This is possible by exposing it to ultraviolet light. It has a small quartz crystal at the center that exposes the chip for reprogramming. Most of the newer systems have EEPROM instead of the EPROM
EEPROM or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory is a type of memory that is reprogrammable. In order to access the data and reprogram it, you can do it with an electrical charge. This easy programming feature has made it a popular and new choice in all the newer systems in current usage.
RAM and types of RAM
RAM refers to random-access memory that stores the data for a short term. It works on a temporary basis and can handle multiple activities. There are six categories of RAM representing different sets of functions and applications.
1. EDO or Extended Data Out
EDO or hyper page mode memory was first used in Pentium computers. With the help of EDO, a CPU can access data almost 10 to 15 percent faster. It can do so by not turning off the data output drivers.
2. SDRAM
SDRAM or synchronous DRAM is a type that is synchronous with the system clock of the computer. As it is set to the clock of the system, it can run the memory at faster speeds. You can expect much faster processing as compared to other types of memory.
3. DDR
DDR or double data rate has a capability of doubling the speed of the memory. It can do so by utilizing the rising and falling edge as present in the system clock
4. DDR2
This stands for double data rate two. It is a higher upgrade version of the DDR. There are several advantages over the DDR. First and foremost, it can process at a much faster speed and hence has more bandwidth potential. It also generates less heat as compared to the DDR. In terms of power consumption, it scales down and uses less power.
5. DDR3
DDR3 or double data rate three are newer versions with a higher bus clock speed of up to 1066 MHz, more size of up to 24 GB, and use less power than the predecessors.
6. DDR4
This is double data rate four with more capability as compared to all the other previous versions. You can expect more speed, higher storage capacity, and less power consumption. It is highly efficient in terms of energy usage.
A Look into laptop, desktop, and server RAM
The computer memory is the same whether you consider the laptop, desktop or server. The memory or RAM has the same functionality of handling date and keeping it accessible for a variety of applications. The only difference is that server RAM can support ECC, while the laptop or desktop cannot support ECC. They make use of non-parity DIMMs which are unbuffered and hence non-ECC.
Laptops have a Small outline Dual In-Line Memory module. They are much smaller and compact as compared to the memory in a desktop. This makes it perfect for laptops and notebooks. They can perform the same level of capability even though the size is small.
Server RAM is a kind of volatile memory stored on a short-term basis. It is erased as soon as the system is turned off. It is much faster than the non-volatile or long-term memory. Depending on your work requirements, you can always opt for a server memory that can handle more processes at a faster speed. There are several forms of server memory like the read-only (ROM) and random access (RAM). While considering the right kind of server memory, you must look at the capacity, ranks and bandwidth, error correcting code, and double data rate.
Computer memory or RAM is thus a major factor that can influence the performance of your system. If you would like to sell old, used or unused memory, you can reach out to us at BuySellRam. There is a demand for used memory for recycling and reuse. A right type of memory is your ticket to make the most of your system.