computer hardware: RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM (random access memory) /primary memory

What is a RAM?

Memory storage in the computer is of two types that is primary & secondary memory. RAM is a primary

Memory storage device. RAM (random access memory) is the place in a computer where the operating system, application programs, and data in current use are kept so that they can be quickly reached by the computer's processor. The data in RAM stays there only as long as your computer is running. When you turn the computer off, RAM loses its data. When you turn your computer on again, your operating system and other files are once again loaded into RAM, usually from your hard disk. RAM is called "random access" because any storage location can be accessed directly.

Types of RAMs:

The RAMS are of 4 types these differences are based on the time of their use and their capacity.

The types of rams are as given below:

1) EDO RAM (Enhanced Data Out)

2) RD RAM (Ram bus Dynamic)

3) SD RAM (Single Dynamic/Single Data/Synchronized Dynamic)

4) DD RAM (Double Data /Double Density)

EDO RAM

These are the first type of RAMS. These were used in Pentium -1 & Pentium -2 motherboard systems. The EDO RAMS are of 2 types:

EDO -1

EDO-2

We can differentiate between these RAMs by the following features.

EDO-1

1) Does not have any notches.

2) Its capacity varies from 1MB to 2MB

EDO -2

1) These have 1 notch between the golden traces.

2) Their capacity is from 1MB-8MB.

RD RAMs

These RAMs have the shortest life compared to the other type of RAMs. These RAMs are generally used in Pentium-2 and Pentium-3 mother boards. These RAMs are found very rarely. Their capacity varies from 16 MB-64MB. We can identify a RD RAM by observing two notches at the centre of the golden traces of the RAM.

SD RAMs

These RAMs are the most successful RAMs. These RAMs are generally used in Pentium-3 motherboard computers. Their capacity varies from 64 MB to 256 MB. We can identify a SD RAM by observing two notches toward the left side between the golden traces.

DDR RAMs

These rams are the latest technology RAMs .these RAMs are used in Pentium-4 motherboard computers. These RAMs are classified into 3 types depending upon their capacities and identification.

The types are:

1) DDR-1

2) DDR-2

3) DDR-3

There are different generations in Pentium-4 mother boards. These generations are generally give codes like 845, 815, 865, 945, 965, 915, G31, G41, G51 etc

DDR-1

1) These are used in p4 motherboards with codes 845, 815, 865

2) Their capacities vary from 512 MB-1 GB.