CompTIA A+ Prep: Compare and Contrast Various RAM Types and their Features

RAM or Random-Access Memory is computer hardware used for the purpose of data storage in devices such as computers, mobile phones, tablets, etc. The data stored in RAM is read in fragments, and it comes and goes away quite readily. RAM chips are classified according to the way data is stored. There are two major types of RAM: Static RAM or SRAM and Dynamic RAM or DRAM.

RAM is one of the most important components of a computer. For anyone who is seeking CompTIA A+ Certification Training should fully acquire the knowledge and understanding of how RAM works, its primary types, and how do they differ with each other.

SRAM (Static Random-Access Memory)

SRAM has bi-stable circuits that store data in tiny bits. When the data is stored on an SRAM, it's not required to be refreshed as often as other kinds of Random Access Memory. A cell that stores data operates in three ways, which include: Reading, Standby, and Writing.

SRAM does not consume an extensive amount of power as opposed to DRAM.

Types of SRAM

Data Storage

• Asynchronous – It stores data in a range of 4kb to 64mb. It also has faster access time and in most electronic devices like a PC, it would be treated as the main component that stores memory.
• Non-volatile – Information is secured because the data still remains on the memory even when there is no power.

Transistors

• MOSFET (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor) – Mainly used in CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) based applications.
• Bipolar Junction Transistor – Used in TTL (Transistor-Transistor Logic) and ECL (Emitter-Coupled Logic) devices. Has a faster speed but consumes more power.

Flip Flop

• Ternary – It uses 8-14 transistors.
• Binary – It has a mask transistor and latch.

Features

• DDR – Common input-output bus that is used for data transfer where one clock is used to manage the data input and output.
• Quad Data Rate – Two words of data are successfully transferred in a complete clock cycle. The separate input-output bus is used to write and read data.

SRAM is found in the following devices:

• PCs
• Microprocessors
• Digital Signal Processing (DSP) circuits
• LCDs
• Printers
• Hard disk
• Router buffers
• Cameras
• Synthesizers
• Mobile phones

DRAM (Dynamic Random-Access Memory) and its types

SDRAM or Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory – SDRAM is quick in noticing and responding to a change in the input. Its interface is synchronized with the computer’s bus and operates are enabled via an input signal.

DDR SDRAM or Double Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory – It’s an IC chip that stores data. The clock signal in this one is more efficient than SDRAM, and so data is transferred at a faster rate. DDR’s interface uses a double-pumping process and so, data is transferred in downward and upward edges of the signal. Its speed is 1600 MB/s.

DDR2 SDRAM or Double Data Rate Type Two Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory – The one to replace DDR SDRAM. It consumes less power and the speed is relatively high. DDR2 SDRAM transfers data at a decent rate of 3200 MB/s.

DDR3 SDRAM or Double Data Rate Type Three Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory – It replaced its former version, and this one brings higher data transfer rate as well as a higher bandwidth. DDR3 SDRAM has a data transfer rate of 6400 MB/s, twice that of its predecessor. Power consumption is also much lower, about 30 percent less than its predecessor.

DDR4 SDRAM or Double Data Rate Type Four Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory – It was first released in 2012, and it replaced its former version because it was looked upon as the next-generation higher bandwidth interface model. It brings a high range of clock speed, can work in low voltage, and a higher data transfer rate.

DRDRAM or Direct Rambus Dynamic Random Access Memory – It is popular for getting heat up, high latency and performance. This kind of DRAM is mainly used in video cards and controllers.

PSRAM or Pseudo Static Random Access Memory – It is a blend between DRAM and SRAM, and offers a combination of both of the RAM types’ aspects. In terms of DRAM aspects, it brings high density, while in terms of SRAM, it brings convenient usage. It has a built-in address-control circuitry that is similar to the one present in SRAM. It is majorly found in Apple Inc.’s products.

RLDRAM or Reduced Latency Dynamic Random Access Memory – Mainly used in caching and networking apps. Applications that can make use of a high rate of write and read operations use this one. RLDRAM also provides high bandwidth.

EDODRAM or Extended Data Out Dynamic Random-Access Memory – Also called Hyper Page Mode enabled DRAM, and brings an immaculate performance by letting different operations to run at the same time.

SGRAM or Synchronous Graphics Random Access Memory – They can work two memory pages at a given time and are found in graphics adaptors. This RAM is mainly designed for higher performance acceleration and that is a vital feature in video cards.

FPM DRAM or Fast Page Mode Dynamic Random Access Memory – This category increases device performance. It allows for better reading and writing of data as well, diminishing all kinds of delays.

It is also important to know that RAM can also be used as a hard disk to store data. However, the data storage function is temporary and is mainly offered in PCs. Carbon Nanotubes combine with RAM to provide higher performance, which in turn, allows for faster access to data in computer devices.

Individuals who are looking to specialize with some special certifications would require to develop a firm understanding of the functions of each RAM category, especially the models of DRAM and SRAM. More useful resources can be found in CompTIA A+ online training at this platform. They have an array of courses designed to help students appearing for training and acquiring certifications.

These resources are highly sought after by computer science students who are looking to have the edge in their training.