How Random Access Memory Works

RAM stands for "Random Access Memory" and is the location in your PC which stores current processes from your operating system, applications you are using, and data that is currently being used. This information is stored in the Random Access Memory so it can be quickly contacted by your PC's central processing unit. Without the Random Access Memory, your computer has to access the applications that are currently being used right from the starting point. The more RAM your computer contains, the faster it will process the data and applications you are using.

How Random Access Memory Works

  • Operating Speed: The amount of RAM that is contained in your computer will determine the efficiency of its operating speed. If you have a smaller RAM it will easily get filled with data which requires your central processing unit to return to the hard drive to retrieve the data overflow. This action is responsible for slow processing speed as well as slow performance in your computer's operating system.
  • Random Access Memory vs. Hard Drive Memory: RAM is different from hard drive memory because the memory in RAM never gets filled up like it does in a hard drive. If the RAM is smaller in size it will simply run at a slower processing speed. A hard drive that is filled up will no longer operate and may crash altogether.

Types of Random Access Memory

There are a few different types of random access memory which operate slightly differently from one another.

  • SRAM: SRAM stands for "Static Random Access Memory" and functions through the use of a moving current which provides quicker access. SRAM works through a current that operates in a single direction as opposed to requiring a storage cell to maintain the charge.

  • DRAM: DRAM stands for "Dynamic Random Access Memory" and runs at a slower speed than Static Random Access Memory. DRAM operates via an electronic charge that is responsible for refreshing the memory storage cells. This is a process that is automatically performed by your PC's operating system.

RAM Requirements

When it comes to Random Access Memory you can never have too much of it installed on your PC. It is especially important to have a PC that contains a lot of RAM if you engage in a lot of multimedia or gaming applications. When you purchase a PC, the RAM requirements should take precedence because this will determine the speed of your PC's operating system. It is also a good idea to purchase a PC that has RAM that is upgradeable, otherwise there will be no way to improve the speed of your PC's performance.

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