RAM Random-access memory (RAM /ræm/) is a form of computer data storage. A random-access memory device allows data items to be read and written in approximately the same amount of time, regardless of the order in which data items are accessed.[1] In contrast, with other direct-access data storage media such as hard disks, CD-RWs, DVD-RWs and the older drum memory, the time required to read and write data items varies significantly depending on their physical locations on the recording medium, due to mechanical limitations such as media rotation speeds and arm movement delays.
Today, random-access memory takes the form of integrated circuits. RAM is normally associated with volatile types of memory (such asDRAM memory modules), where stored information is lost if power is removed, although many efforts have been made to develop non-volatile RAM chips.[2] Other types of non-volatile memory exist that allow random access for read operations, but either do not allow write operations or have limitations on them. These include most types of ROM and a type of flash memory called NOR-Flash.
Integrated-circuit RAM chips came into the market in the late 1960s, with the first commercially available DRAM chip, the Intel 1103, introduced in October 1970.[3]
Alternatively referred to as main memory, primary memory, or system memory,Random Access Memory (RAM) is a hardware device that allows information to be stored and retrieved on a computer. RAM is usually associated with DRAM, which is a type of memory module. Because information is accessed randomly instead of sequentially like it is on a CD or hard drive, the computer can access the data much faster. However, unlike ROM or a the hard drive, RAM is a volatile memory and requires power to keep the data accessible; if power is lost all data contained in memory lost.
Additional information
As the computer boots, parts of the operating system and drivers are loaded into memory, which allows the CPU to process the instructions faster and speeds up the boot process. After the operating system has loaded, each program you open, such as thebrowser you're using to view this page, is loaded into memory while it is running. If too many programs are open the computer will swap the data in the memory between the RAM and the hard disk drive.
Over the evolution of the computer there have been different variations of RAM. Some of the more common examples are DIMM, RIMM, SIMM, SO-DIMM, and SOO-RIMM. Below is an example image of a 512MB DIMM computer memory module, a typical piece of RAM found in desktop computers. This memory module would be installed into one of thememory slots on a motherboard.
Tip: New users often confuse RAM with disk drive space. See our memory definition for a comparison between memory and storage.
Related pages
- Computer memory help and support.
- Computer RAM diagram.
- Determining how much RAM is installed and available.
- What is the difference between RAM and ROM?
- Installing PC computer memory (RAM).
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