RAM Full Form- What is RAM full form?

Shuchi BagchiUpdated On: June 21, 2023 06:55 pm IST

RAM full form is Random Access Memory. RAM is used in the process of reading and writing into memory. RAM stores various files and data of programs that are currently being executed by the CPU when the application is running active. It is considered as a volatile memory because the data loses when power is turned off. RAM can be further divided into two classifications according to its functions: Static RAM (SRAM), and Dynamic RAM (DRAM).

What is RAM full form?

The full form of RAM is Random Access Memory. In 1947, Williams Tubes were the first people to find RAM, the full form of which is Random Access Memory. The RAM, earlier used Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) and data was kept in the form of electrically charged spots on the face of the tube. In late 1947, ‘magnetic-core memory’  was used as the second most commonly used form of RAM. Several patents were filed in the name of Frederick Viehe, who was credited for most of the work pioneered by him. In the past, tiny metal rings and wires connecting to each ring were used for processing of Magnetic-core memory. Each of these rings stored one bit of data and that data can be reached at any given time. Moreover, RAM was first invented by Robert Dennard in 1968 which is today called as solid-state memory. The transistors were used in DRAMs (Dynamic Random Access Memory) to store bits of the data.

What Are the Functions of RAM?

The RAM begins working as soon as the computer starts and the computer also needs the presence of RAM to begin working. Because the necessary programs to operate the computer like the BIOS Operating System also works after being loaded into RAM and starting the computer.

  • The function of RAM in a computer is similar to the main memory.
  • The function of RAM is to provide data and instructions to the CPU.
  • RAM provides memory commands to be given to the computer to work.
  • A computer’s RAM stores data, starts programs, instructions and commands for the current work that is being performed.

Working Procedure of RAM

In the RAM procedure, a flip-flop and a semiconductor are used. The semiconductor is also known as Main Memory and Primary Memory. CPU tasks are stored in RAM along with all the data and instructions. The CPU is responsible for managing this data and instructions in the  memory. As a result, the data from the CPU can be accessed directly. Data and instructions are stored in the cells of the computer’s memory. The rows and columns are present in each cell. Each of these rows and columns has its own unique address. The verticals of cells and columns are also known as a cell path. These cells can provide various types of data to the CPU, full form of which is the Central Process Unit. This means that RAM can be accessed randomly without a sequence. Therefore, this memory is referred to as Random Access Memory.

Types of Random Access Memory (RAM)

RAM is volatile memory, which means that it can't possess data once the power is turned off. The advantage is the high access speed. RAM types are given below.

There are two types of RAM and both have their own characteristics. They are:

  • Static Ram (SRAM)

Static RAM is commonly termed as SRAM. Static RAM is most commonly used in the form of computer memory that holds data permanently until it is erased.

Generally, SRAM is faster in speed than Dynamic Ram. Some of the benefits of static RAM are as follows:  low cost, high reliability, ease of repair and maintenance and it consumes less power than DRAM.

  • Dynamic Ram (DRAM)

Dynamic random access memory (DRAM) is also a familiar type of computer memory. Moreover, Dynamic RAM needs to be refreshed at an interval to keep its existing data and is slower and cheaper compared to static RAM.

Features of RAM 

RAM has many features which are helpful in storing and processing the data in a computer system. In the matter of speed, processing and accessibility, RAM has various distinct features. They are:

  • RAM is faster than other types of storage. Which means, no memory has a speed as fast as RAM.
  • RAM is an epitome of volatile or transient memory.
  • The main or basic memory, often known as primary memory, in a computer is RAM.
  • Creation of  RAM costs more money. It costs more compared to other memory as a consequence.
  • The CPU components include RAM. The RAM is directly retainable by the CPU.
  • In the absence of RAM, a computer cannot even function.

Advantages of RAM

The various advantages of RAM are:

  • RAM contains no mechanical moving part and therefore there is no noise.
  • RAM uses very less power compared to mechanical disk drives. RAM also reduces overall CO2 emissions and extends battery life.
  • RAM is known to be the fastest and safest medium for storage.

Disadvantages of RAM

Alongwith the advantages of RAM, there are various disadvantages of RAM. They are:

  • Volatile in Nature
    Power outage will lead to irrecoverable data loss, unless there is some power backup system like a laptop battery accompanied by.
  • Limited space
    RAM cost per bit is high, therefore, computers do not include too much RAM.

FAQs

What is the full form of RAM?

RAM full form is Random Access Memory.

What is the basic purpose of RAM?

Random Access Memory is one of the most important components in influencing the performance of the system. RAM provides a temporary storage and access location for various applications. It saves the information that the computer is now consuming the data so that it can be accessible immediately.

What is the difference between GB and RAM?

Random Access Memory (RAM) is a type of memory that can be accessed any time. This is the place where a computer saves data before processing it. The amount of memory in RAM is measured in the term of gigabytes (GB).

Which RAM is expensive?

In comparison to dynamic RAM, static RAM is way expensive and it requires four times the amount of space for the same amount of data. Also, it does not require power refresh and is faster to access.

When was RAM used for the first time?

The RAM was used in 1947 for the first time by William Tube.

What is the full form of ROM?

The ROM full form is Read Only Memory.

How many types of memory does a computer consist of?

Computer memory is classified into two types: Primary Memory and Secondary Memory. The primary memory can further be divided into two types- RAM and ROM.

What is the nature of ROM?

The ROM is a non-volatile memory which means the data is stored permanently even when the power is off.

Which memory is costly?

ROM is costly in comparison to RAM.

What are the features of ROM?

  • Non-volatile
  • Programmable
  • Storage capacity during power off

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