What are ram sticks: What Is RAM? A Basic Definition

18 февраля, 2023

What Is RAM? A Basic Definition

(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)

RAM stands for random access memory. This is where a PC stores data before it’s processed. A RAM DIMM (Dual in-line Memory Module), or more simply thought of as a RAM stick, is made of up of memory chips that a PC can write (and rewrite) rapidly. RAM is a form of volatile memory, which means that it only holds onto data while the chip is powered and erases everything when you shut down the PC. RAM memory is measured in gigabytes (GB).

When people talk about RAM in a PC, they are most likely referring to DDR SDRAM (Double Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic RAM), which is usually found on DIMM slots on the motherboard. On the other hand, GPUs (aka graphics cards aka video cards) use GDDR SDRAM (Graphics Double Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic RAM). Modern RAM offerings all use SDRAM, but sometimes you’ll see people and retailers refer to it as «DRAM» anyway.

How Much RAM do You Need (Including for Gaming)? 

For most, including gamers and those who do mainstream productivity, 16GB will do. But if you’re a heavy multi-tasker or power user, you may want 32GB of RAM. If your computer ever uses up all of its physical RAM, it can use part of a storage drive as much-slower «virtual memory.»

For an in-depth look at how much RAM you need, check out this article: How Much Memory Do You Need: 8, 16 or 32GB of RAM?

What Is DDR4?

There have been four generations of DDR memory. DDR4 is the most recent and has a bandwidth of 32 GB/s. Generally, it’s the fastest type of DDR memory currently available and has the best performance and largest amount of memory. So naturally the best RAM offerings use DDR4. Most modern PCs and the best motherboards require DDR4, but older systems may only support DDR3 or even DDR2.

What Is DDR5?

The race to DDR5 is currently a-go, with vendors like Cadence and Micro planning for production by the end of 2019. DDR5 will offer double the density and double the performance of first-generation DDR4.

For all the details on DDR5, check out our article, What We Know About DDR5 So Far.

DDR SDRAM Memory Comparison

Swipe to scroll horizontally

Memory Type Release Year Bandwidth Pins per Ch Voltage (V) Prefetch
DDR 2000 3.2 GB/s 184 2.5/2.6 2n
DDR2 2003 8.5 GB/s 240 1.8 4n
DDR3 2007 17 GB/s 240 1.35/1.5 8n
DDR4 2014 25. 6 GB/s 380 1.2 8n
DDR5 2019 32 GB/s 380 1.1 8/16n

Understanding RAM Product Names

When looking at RAM product names, you’ll see the vendor name, followed by the product’s branding, then the RAM type and, finally, a four-digit number. That four-digit number tells you how many mega transfers (1,000,000 data transfers) the RAM can do in one second, the higher the better. For example, the Super Talent Project X DDR4-3000 16GB RAM can conduct 3,000 mega transfers in one second, or 3,000 MT/sec.

What Is SRAM?

In addition to SDRAM, computers use SRAM (static RAM) for the CPU’s on-board cache.

This article is part of the Tom’s Hardware Glossary.

Further reading:

  • Best Memory: Fast, Cheap & RGB
  • Simple RAM Overclocking With a Few Clicks: How to Enable XMP 

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Scharon Harding has a special affinity for gaming peripherals (especially monitors), laptops and virtual reality. Previously, she covered business technology, including hardware, software, cyber security, cloud and other IT happenings, at Channelnomics, with bylines at CRN UK.

What Does Computer Memory (RAM) Do?

 

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Not sure exactly what computer memory is for or how it works? We cover all the bases, from what RAM is to how it works and why it is worth getting an upgrade.

Why is computer memory (RAM) important?

Computer random access memory (RAM) is one of the most important components in determining your system’s performance. RAM gives applications a place to store and access data on a short-term basis. It stores the information your computer is actively using so that it can be accessed quickly.  

The more programs your system is running, the more you’ll need. SSDs (solid state drives) are also important components and will help your system reach its peak performance.

The speed and performance of your system directly correlate to the amount of RAM you have installed. If your system has too little RAM, it can be slow and sluggish. But on the opposite end, you can install too much with little to no added benefit. There are ways to see if your computer needs more memory, and to make sure you are buying memory that is compatible with the other components in your system. Generally, components are created to the highest standard at the time of manufacture, but with the expectation that technology will continue to change.

To prevent users from inserting incompatible memory, modules are physically different for each memory technology generation. These physical differences are standard across the memory industry. One of the reasons for industry-wide standardization in memory is that computer makers need to know the electrical parameters and physical shape of the memory that can be installed in their computers.

What is RAM Speed and Latency?

RAM performance is all about the relationship between speed and latency. While the two are closely related, they’re not connected in the way you might think. At a basic level, latency refers to the time delay between when a command is entered and when the data is available. Understanding speed and latency of RAM will help you better choose the right RAM to install in your system based on your needs. 

What does RAM (memory) do?

RAM allows your computer to perform many of its everyday tasks, such as loading applications, browsing the internet, editing a spreadsheet, or experiencing the latest game. Memory also allows you to switch quickly among these tasks, remembering where you are in one task when you switch to another task. As a rule, the more memory you have, the better.

When you turn on your computer and open a spreadsheet to edit it, but first check your email, you’ll have used memory in several different ways. Memory is used to load and run applications, such as your spreadsheet program, respond to commands, such as any edits you made in the spreadsheet, or toggle between multiple programs, such as when you left the spreadsheet to check email. Memory is almost always being actively used by your computer. If your system is slow or unresponsive, you may need a memory upgrade. If you think you may need more memory, it’s easy to upgrade your desktop or laptop RAM yourself.

In a way, memory is like your desk. It allows you to work on a variety of projects, and the larger your desk, the more papers, folders, and tasks you can have out at one time. You can quickly and easily access the information without going to a filing cabinet (your storage drive). When you’re finished with a project, or leaving for the day, you can put some or all the projects in the filing cabinet for safekeeping. Your storage drive (hard drive or solid state drive) is the filing cabinet that works with your desk to track your projects.

What uses RAM?

RAM is used to store information that needs to be used quickly. This means that opening many programs, running various processes or accessing multiple files simultaneously is likely to use a lot of RAM. Particularly complexed programs like games or design software will use most RAM.

Do you need to upgrade your RAM?

Whether you are a gamer, designer, or just looking to speed up your personal computer, upgrading RAM is a simple and easy way to boost your system performance. To determine the right kind of memory for your computer, use the Crucial® Advisor™  or System Scanner. These tools will help you determine which memory modules are compatible with your computer, along with options for your speed requirements and budget.

©2017 Micron Technology, Inc. All rights reserved. Information, products, and/or specifications are subject to change without notice. Neither Crucial nor Micron Technology, Inc. is responsible for omissions or errors in typography or photography. Micron, the Micron logo, Crucial, and the Crucial logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Micron Technology, Inc. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.

NATURE’S PROTECTION LIFESTYLE Dog Treat Lamb Sticks | Price: 3.49 €

Lamb sticks are a treat for dogs with sensitive digestive systems.

Lamb sticks are a treat for dogs with sensitive digestive systems.

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