COMPUTER MEMORY

History of computer memory

History of computer memory

Introduction

Memory is the term used to determine the computer's electronic circuit that contains program instructions and data. Random access memory (commonly acknowledged as RAM) is a kind of computer data memory. Today it takes the shape of integrated circuits that let the saved data to be retrieved in any sequence, i.e. at random. The term random thus denotes to the fact that any part of data can be reverted in a fixed time, irrespective of its physical position and whether or not it is linked to the former part of data. This opposes with memory mechanisms such as magnetic discs, tapes and optical discs, which depend upon the physical movement of a reading head or the recording medium. In these equipments, the movement carries longer than the data transference, and the recovery time deviates depending upon the physical position of the following item.

Discussion

Computer memory decides the count and size of computer programs that can be carried out. When any individual tries to buy a computer today, he or she will most probably see specifications where something called RAM is mentioned. RAM is nothing but Random Access Memory and today's computers have anywhere from 1GB RAM to even 8GB RAM in some high end systems. RAM is volatile memory in the sense that the information stored in it is temporary. The processing unit in a computer needs a lot of memory to run today's sophisticated operating systems and applications. It will need to store and retrieve memory on a very high speed basis which is where the RAM serves that purpose. The processor will store necessary information in the RAM to complete a process and then delete that memory when it doesn't need it. That way, it is able to access the most needed information in the fastest way possible without having to dig around for it from other memory sources such as the hard disk or CD drive (Books Llc, 2010).

Types of RAM

Majority of the time, when individuals think of RAM, they do not conceive that there are various kinds. To a point, this moves into the complication of selecting the correct memory upgrades for your computer, as not all kinds of RAM are attuned with all computers. This is why it is crucial that one know what he or she is purchasing before purchase is made. Here are the available RAM kinds for most computers.

Basic DRAM—DIMMs and RIMMs

DRAM is the root type for the RAM technology that is presently available, and it moves into two main forms: DIMMs and RIMMs. Also, DIMMs for SDRAM and DDR are completely different animals. The SDRAM has 168 pins, and the DDR has 184, which means that they won't fit in the same slots. These are important distinctions that you will encounter when buying new RAM chipsets. DIMMs are 64 bit, but if your motherboard has a dual-channel configuration, you will have to use them in pairs to get the most out of ...