Like our brain retains information, some for a short duration, and some for a lifetime. All the information types are stored in the brain and used whenever required. If we talk about what is memory in computer, you could say it is a lot similar to brain functions. A computer performs the same way, but it uses different devices for each purpose. For example, a PC uses random access memory (RAM) to retain a piece of quick and short-term information. On the other side, a read-only memory is meant to maintain data for a lifetime. But what makes these devices put on and dispatch information?
A memory snippet works closely with the operating system, computer hardware, and programs to convey, read and write information. Here, writing data means the process of stockpiling all your data particulars on the memory module. At the same time, reading means, you get back the information stored on the chip. These processes take different periods to accomplish in each memory type; the fastest is the stick named RAM. Its incredible working speed has made it a vital component of every device that handles and manipulates information. The fascinating nature of memory devices convinces us to learn more about their traits.
What does computer memory look like?
You would not believe this tiny, almost 6 inches long thin snippet can be so artistic. This green rectangular circuit card consists of segments made of pins that help it take place in the motherboard’s memory slot.
Volatile vs. non-volatile memory
Alternatives like “power dependent vs. power independent” can also address volatile and non-volatile memories. These are the only two behaviors a memory module can acknowledge; both are imperative characteristics for a PC. The volatile memory can no longer hold the facts and particulars it saved once power is suspended. Therefore, this unit requires saving your work time to time; otherwise, the system will erase everything with an interruption in the power stream. Conversely, the non-volatile fragment maintains its storage without bothering the power flux.
Are some types of memory faster than others?
It is accurate that memory devices differ in their capacity to put on, retrieve, and transfer data. Some sticks using conventional means are not that capable of delivering faster rates. However, modern snippets are skillful in their data transfer speeds. One variable that defines the capacity of a RAM unit to deliver astonishing speed is double data rate (DDR). Though DDR3 is amazing in transferring data, the fourth version, DDR4, is two times more efficient in enhancing performance and data bandwidth.
This competent job seems to need more resources but cuts back 40 percent of the voltage. Another parameter is noticeable in megahertz; DDR2 models have an 800 MHz frequency which increases as the model improves. For example, DDR5 has a brilliant 5200 megahertz data transfer frequency. Hence the two valuable parameters, space, and frequency, are the defining indicators and differ in every snippet.
What happens to memory when the computer is turned off?
Imagine yourself working on a computer, for instance, writing a document. You write half the copy, and power suddenly zones out. In that situation, it would completely erase your half-done work if you have not saved it timely. RAM does not stock your information and proactively performs tasks when the power goes off.
Memory is not disk storage
Newbies to the world of computers are often muddled with the types of memory devices. It is difficult for them to differentiate between the primary and secondary memory snippets. The primary snippet is known as RAM, and the secondary is a Hard disk drive. However, the generic name for both is simply “memory,” which confuses users. Remember, a hard drive is always more spacious than RAM, up to gigabytes and terabytes. However, a random memory stick is restrained to just a few gigabytes.
How is memory used?
Some bits of content are directly vented to the hard disk for permanent placement, like videos, songs, pictures, and files. However, some involve mobilization of data from disk drive to RAM and processor for actively performing tasks. For example, requesting a web page or a program operation, the operating system loads data from the HDD and sends it to RAM. Next, the processor comes in to process it at higher speeds. That is how PC parts link and communicate for managing data.
Why is memory important or needed for a computer?
A memory particle, specifically RAM, is crucial for accelerated speed. In case there is no RAM module in your device, the processor has the only option to draw data from disk storage. That would take more time and make the system slow and annoying.
Types of memory
Numerous memory modules have been introduced until now; you can look at the list below to realize the advancement scope.
ROM
Read-only memory is further categorized as;
- PROM
- EPROM
- EEPROM
RAM
Six categories of read-only memory are given;
- EDO RAM
- SDRAM
- DDR RAM
- DDR2 RAM
- DDR3 RAM
- DDR4 RAM
Conclusion
Now that you know what is memory in computer, you understand having massive amounts of information on computer devices has always been a basic necessity. However, the need is not limited to mere storage. The concern is how efficiently that system can draw and process data from storage. Memory devices have constantly been subjected to improvements to address these concerns. Now the RAM, we all know, is brilliant regarding data reading and writing speed, ultimately boosting the performance flux. Let us put the words into a shell; the memory in a computer is information saved, accessed, retrieved, and processed back to bring it into utilization.
