Every time you type a word, save a file, or move your mouse cursor across the screen, your computer executes a series of processes. These processes require the data to be close by, and RAM provides the temporary storage necessary for this.
RAM is different from long-term storage like hard drives and SSDs, which retain the information even when the system is turned off. You can learn about your RAM using tools like CPU-Z and Speccy.
What is RAM?
RAM helps your computer run faster by making previously accessed information available quickly. It’s like your computer’s own short-term memory, keeping the data that is needed right in front of you so it can be used immediately without waiting for the slower storage components to read and write data to and from disk.
RAM prevents other components from having to access slower storage, such as a hard drive or even a fast solid-state drive (SSD), every time you open a new browser tab or want to load the latest mission in your favorite game. These storage components are required because they offer longer-term storage of that same data after the RAM is powered off.
The faster the memory is, the more data it can hold at once and the faster your CPU can process it. The exact latency of RAM depends on the design of the memory chip and its SPD, which stores information on the device such as the manufacturer, speed, timings, burst type, and duration.
What is SRAM?
SRAM is another type of memory that can be found in computers. It is also used in many other types of technology, including screens and printers. It is much faster than storage, which is why it is often used as cache memory in CPUs.
This type of RAM uses flip flops to store data and can be read and written without the need for refresh cycles. Each flip flop is made up of 4-6 transistors. It is a volatile memory, which means that data can be lost if the power fails.
SRAM has a shorter access time than DRAM, and it can be stored in smaller circuits for less cost. It is mostly used for cache memory in CPUs and as a buffer between main memory and the microprocessor. It is also a popular choice for high-speed registers and cache memory. In 2011, SRAM acquired Quarq, a company known for its crank based power meters and race intelligence software for race promoters, race officials, and the media.
What is DRAM?
DRAM is a type of volatile memory that stores bits of data in transistors and capacitors. It requires refreshing with new electric charges every few milliseconds to help it retain data because the capacitors can lose their charge over time. It’s the type of RAM that your laptop, tablet, or smartphone uses for immediate storage and processing of applications.
Almost all computers use DRAM today. It can be soldered onto your device’s motherboard or installed in removable modules called DIMMs that slot into a motherboard. Most compact devices use soldered-on RAM, while larger desktops and laptops usually go with modular DIMMs that make it easier to upgrade or expand their memory.
Synchronous DRAM or SDRAM works with a clock signal to synchronize its memory speed with CPU speeds. This allows it to process more data at a time and makes it ideal for computer games that need immediate real-time responses from the system. It also supports faster transfer rates than asynchronous DRAM.
How much RAM do I need?
Most modern PCs have 8GB of RAM out of the box, which is adequate for many basic computer tasks such as browsing the web, emailing, writing documents and managing digital photo albums. If you’re an avid gamer, however, you will need more than that to play the latest games at their best without feeling lag or slowdowns.
RAM is where your computer stores files that it’s using right now, and it’s much faster to access these files from RAM than to transfer them back and forth between your solid state drive (SSD) or hard disk drive (HDD). This means that having more RAM can speed up your PC significantly.
Video editors and professional graphics designers will want 32GB of RAM for the best performance with programs like Premiere Pro, Photoshop and 3D animation software. The average user will likely need 16GB to get the most bang for their buck. The amount of RAM that you need really depends on your computing needs, though, and the type of hardware you have in your system.