Despite the development of technology and their total popularization, many still ask the question: “What is RAM?”
Surely most of you have heard that there is some kind of constant.
But only a few can really explain what it is and why it is needed. Of course, there are many articles on the Internet about this, but there is no clear answer.
Most often, we are faced with the concept of "RAM" when choosing a computer. And the only thing we are guided by in this matter is the rule "the more the better."
In fact, this is only partly correct. It is not always necessary to buy a computer with a lot of memory. But first things first.
Content:Theoretical page
If you take all the definitions that are on the Internet, you can deduce the following:
RAM is the memory that stores temporary, intermediate data.
It is also called RAM (Random Access Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory or Random Access Memory), OP (abbreviation).
We will use all these concepts. At first glance, the above definition seems somewhat complicated, but now we will understand everything.
As you know, there are two types of memory in a computer - operational and permanent.
So, the difference between them can be illustrated with one simple example.
This text was originally typed into the . When it was printed, it had not yet been stored on the computer, that is, it did not occupy a single byte of permanent memory (on the hard disk).
Where was he then? Just in the operating room.
When we saved it to the computer, it had already begun to take up space in permanent memory. By the way, it is called ROM (Read Only Memory).
The same happens when working with any other program. Until you save the data, they must be stored somewhere, but they cannot take up real disk space (after all, you did not save them).
So, they are stored in the OP.
That is, the RAM is a kind of buffer that stores data until it is stored in permanent memory.
If we take a more familiar everyday situation for us, then all of the above can be illustrated by another example.
Let's say you bought tomatoes, bell peppers, parsley, garlic and cucumbers to make a salad.
You put them on the board to cut. At the moment, they are not yet in the salad, but they are no longer in the store, they are on the board. In this example, the cutting board is just RAM (operational).
Here, a little processing takes place, and then the vegetables are placed in some kind of vessel, which is a ROM (read-only memory).
Rice. 2. Two types of computer memory on the example of lettuce
Actually, this is the difference. If you restart your computer or turn it off and do not save the data, they will be lost.
But if you save them (for example, in order to do this, you need to click the button "File", then "Save"), they will be placed in the permanent.
All clear?
If not, write about it in the comments.
It is clear that the more RAM, the better, because then more information can be processed at the same time.
If we take the above example with vegetables and salad, then it is clear that the larger the cutting board, the more tomatoes, cucumbers and other products will fit on it.
There is one BUT - if your salad bowl is very small and you live alone, then it makes no sense to buy a very large board.
You simply won’t cook such voluminous salads, and if you do, they will stand in the refrigerator and disappear.
In the same way, it makes absolutely no sense to choose a computer with a lot of RAM, unless you plan to perform some complex tasks on it and the amount of permanent memory you have is not very large.
Here we come to the topic of choosing the OP.
From everything we talked about in this section, we could draw the following conclusions:
- RAM or RAM, RAM, OP is a kind of intermediate stage between permanent memory and the user.
- The RAM contains the data until it is placed in a constant.
- When the user enters some data, they are stored in RAM, and after saving they are already placed in ROM.
- If you do not save the information that is currently being processed by the RAM, it will disappear.
How to choose the amount of RAM
To make a choice of the amount of RAM, you need to be guided by only one criterion, and specifically, the tasks that you will perform on the computer. It looks like this:
- if you only need to work with text documents, 1 GB of RAM will do (this is quite enough for the normal operation of Word and the entire office suite from);
- and if you need to process graphics or play games, you need to buy the maximum amount of RAM - at the moment it can be 16 GB or even more;
- if you need something in between, then today 8 GB is the best indicator (this is enough for the normal operation of games, albeit not at maximum speed, and for all other tasks).
Tip: Take the programs you plan to use on your computer and check the system requirements for them. There, for sure, the required amount of RAM will be indicated. Rely on this indicator when choosing.
Rice. 3. Computers in the store
This applies to cases when you choose a whole computer, and not RAM separately. We will talk about the second situation a little later.
And before that, consider the question of how to find out how many OPs are currently on your computer.
How to find out the amount of RAM available
Before giving methods that allow us to accomplish the task, it is necessary to clarify a few points.
Let's start with the fact that RAM is (physically) a small rectangular board that is inserted into the corresponding socket on the motherboard.
Rice. 4. OP module and motherboard connector for it
So, the most reliable way to find out the amount of RAM is just to simply look at this very module and find some number there next to the word “GB”, that is, Gigabyte.
Here's what it might look like.
Rice. 5. The amount of RAM indicated on the module
In addition, you can find out how many OPs are actually installed on a computer using special programs and, specifically:
1. Through the properties of the system. To do this, go to "Computer", click at the top on "Properties of the system" and see how many GB is indicated next to the inscription "Installed Memory...".
Rice. 6. View RAM through system properties
2. Through the task manager. You can launch it in two ways: by entering the appropriate query in the Start menu search bar and by simultaneously pressing the buttons "Ctrl", "Alt" and "Delete". In the launched dispatcher, you will need to go to the tab "Performance" and pay attention to the section "Physical Memory". This method is good because you can also see how many GB (or MB) are currently being used (this is the same section and section "Memory").
Rice. 7. View RAM through Task Manager
3. Through the program. First you need to say it (on the download page from our site), then run it, go to the "Memory" tab and pay attention to what is indicated next to the inscription "Size". This is the real amount of RAM.
Rice. 8. Viewing RAM through the CPU-Z program
In general, there are a lot of programs like this. Works very well, for example, AIDA64. Choose the one you like best.
Secondly, in addition to volume, RAM has many other characteristics, such as frequencies, type, and more. If you choose OP not together with the computer, but separately, you need to pay attention to them.
So we come to the issue of increasing RAM.
However, if you decide not to buy a complete computer, but to assemble it from individual parts, then the following tips and criteria will also be relevant for you.
Is it possible to increase the RAM
The answer to this question is extremely simple - of course you can! You just need to buy another OP module and install it on the motherboard. You just need to know how to choose this very module.
In this case, not only the tasks that you will perform play a role, but also the characteristics of the motherboard and memory module. This is what it's about:
1. First you need to know what modules your . Here the type of memory plays a role (and they are DDR-1, DDR-2, DDR-3 and DDR-4, and with different markings).
The easiest way to complete the task is with the above program. The process for using it is as follows:
- first, the program must be downloaded (on the official website), installed and launched;
- on the main screen, press "Motherboard";
Rice. 9. AIDA64 main screen
- after that, you must select the item "Chipset";
Rice. 10. Mainboard section in AIDA64
- at the top, click on "Server bridge..." and pay attention to the lines "Supported Memory Types" and "Maximum Memory".
Rice. 11. Characteristics of supported computer memory in AIDA64
Be sure to remember the supported module types, and when choosing a new one, remember that the type must match.
2. Pay attention to the form factor. Simply put, this refers to the appearance and size of the board itself. There are not so many varieties, only two - DIMM for PCs and SO-DIMM for laptops.
The first is more, the second is less. See that it does not turn out that the module you purchased will be suitable for a laptop, and you have a PC.
Rice. 12. Varieties of the form factor of RAM modules
3. Be sure to pay attention to the frequency. This is one of the main characteristics of the modules, which directly affects its performance.
Here the situation is the same as with the first criterion of this list. If the motherboard does not support a particular frequency, it makes no sense to buy memory with that frequency.
4. She, of course, will work, but not at the maximum. For example, if the motherboard only supports 1600 MHz, and you buy 1800 MHz RAM, then only 1600 will work, and 200 will be unnecessary.
To find out how many MHz the motherboard supports, you need to follow the same steps as shown in Figures 9-11.
In line "Supported types..." some numbers are indicated next to the type (for example, DDR3-1066). This is the amount of frequency.
These three characteristics are the main ones. And you can also pay attention to the timings, operating modes and manufacturer.
But all this is not so important. If you buy a new RAM module according to the above criteria, you can instantly increase the amount of memory on your computer.
If you have any questions, write about them in the comments. We will be happy to answer!
There is another way to increase the amount of RAM - this is its overclocking. This procedure is quite complicated, but interesting. The video below shows how it is done.
How to overclock RAM?
We continue the theme of hardware and in this video we will talk about the frequency of RAM and overclocking RAM
RAM
Next, we will dwell in more detail on the next important characteristic of RAM - its volume. First, it should be noted that it most directly affects the number of programs, processes and applications running at a time and their smooth operation. To date, the most popular modules are strips with a capacity of: 4 GB and 8 GB (we are talking about the DDR3 standard).
Based on which operating system is installed, as well as for what purposes the computer is used, you should correctly select and select the amount of RAM. For the most part, if the computer is used to access the World Wide Web and to work with various applications, while Windows XP is installed, then 2 GB is enough.
For those who like to “run in” a recently released game and people working with graphics, you should set at least 4 GB. And in the event that you plan to install windows 7, then you will need even more.
The easiest way to find out how much memory your system needs is to launch the Task Manager (by pressing the ctrl + alt + del keyboard shortcut) and launch the resource-consuming program or application itself. After that, it is necessary to analyze the information in the "Memory Allocation" - "Peak" group.
Thus, we can determine the maximum allocated volume and find out to what volume it needs to be increased so that our highest indicator fits in RAM. This will give you maximum system performance. There will be no need to increase further.
Choice of RAM
Now let's move on to the question of choosing the RAM that is most suitable specifically for you. From the very beginning, you should determine exactly the type of RAM that your computer motherboard supports. For modules of different types, there are different connectors, respectively. Therefore, in order to avoid damage to the motherboard or the modules themselves, the modules themselves have different sizes.
The optimal amount of RAM was discussed above. When choosing RAM, you should focus on its bandwidth. For system speed, the most optimal option is when the module bandwidth matches the same processor characteristic.
That is, if the computer has a processor with a 1333 MHz bus, the bandwidth of which is 10600 Mb / s, then to ensure the most favorable conditions for performance, you can put 2 bars, the bandwidth of which is 5300 Mb / s, and which in total will give us 10600 Mb/s
However, it should be remembered that for this mode of operation, the RAM modules must be identical both in volume and in frequency. In addition, they must be made by the same manufacturer. Here is a short list of well-established manufacturers: Samsung, OCZ, Transcend, Kingston, Corsair, Patriot.
In the end, it is worth summarizing the main points:
- Based on the definition: RAM or RAM is an integral part of a computer that is necessary for the temporary storage of data, which in turn is necessary for the processor to work.
- After completion of any operations (closing programs, applications), all data associated with them are deleted from the chip. And when you start new tasks, the data that the processor needs at a given time is loaded into it from the hard disk.
- The speed of access to data located in RAM is several hundred times greater than the speed of access to information located on the hard disk. This allows the processor to use the desired information, gaining instant access to it.
- To date, the most common 2 types: DDR3 (with a frequency of 800 to 2400 MHz) and DDR4 (from 2133 to 4266 MHz). The higher the frequency, the faster the system runs.
If you have any difficulties with the choice of RAM, if you cannot determine what type of RAM your motherboard supports and what volume will be more suitable for your needs, then you can always contact the service site. We are computer help at home in Moscow and Moscow region. Our experts will help with the selection, replacement and installation in a computer or laptop.
Computer quite imperceptibly, but rather quickly became an integral part of our lives. Without it, it is impossible to imagine any branch of production, not a single factory or plant, not a single office. Yes, and no apartment, perhaps, can no longer be imagined without a personal computer or laptop. But although this device has already firmly entered our daily life, not everyone understands its work and design. This article will consider one of its most important components - PC RAM.
We are not talking about the fact that every PC user should thoroughly know the theoretical foundations of the operation of his computer and be able to repair any breakdown. No, leave it to the professionals. But basic knowledge of the device is necessary - this will help to avoid many problems in operation and, quite likely, can prevent serious damage.
RAM in the structure of a personal computer
So, RAM. It is one of the most important components in a computer. This is not to say that one detail is more important and the other is less, but RAM (Random Access Memory - this is how RAM is officially called) is an indispensable element in the operation of a PC. We can say that RAM is a kind of buffer zone, a connecting element between a person and a computer.
Physically, RAM is presented in the form of a removable module installed in a special slot on the motherboard, located to the right of the processor. Most motherboards have two or four of these connectors. On this module, on one or both sides, there are microcircuits, which, in fact, are memory.
When you turn on your computer, the operating system and some programs start up. All the data that they need for normal functioning is placed in RAM. So do all the other programs that the user launches in the process. Whether it's working with text, processing photos or listening to music - all the intermediate results of the programs are in RAM.
When the power is turned off, all data in RAM disappears. Therefore, this device is called "operational". This is one of its two main differences from ROM - permanent memory such as a hard disk or flash drive. The second difference is the speed of data exchange. RAM is much higher than ROM. This, in fact, explains the purpose of RAM - to maximize the speed of the computer's response to user actions.
The hard disk can also store some operational information (the so-called page file), placed there when there is not enough space in the RAM. In this case, the user may experience negative phenomena - freezing and slowing down programs or the entire system.
History, development and types of RAM
RAM has always been present in the block diagram of computer technology. Back in the 19th century, the first samples of analytical machines were created, consisting purely of mechanical parts. Naturally, the RAM was also mechanical. In the 20th century, the development of electronics was rapid. This is reflected in the evolution of working memory. At various times, electromechanical relays, cathode-ray tubes and magnetic drums were used for these purposes.
With the development of semiconductor technologies, RAM based on transistors appeared and began to develop: tens, hundreds, thousands, and then millions of transistors in a single microcircuit package. At first, these memory chips were simply soldered into the motherboard, which was not very convenient. With the development of computers, RAM was placed on a separate removable board.
The main modern types of RAM are SRAM and DRAM - static and dynamic random access memory. The first is made on the basis of triggers, has a high speed, but a low density of elements. The second one is built on “capacitor-transistor” bundles, has a high density and, as a result, low cost. But it is inferior in speed and needs constant recharging of its capacitors. Since the cost of production is important for mass production, it is dynamic memory that has become widespread in the PC. Since 1993 and to this day, its most common variety on the market is its synchronous DRAM (SDRAM).
With regard to technical performance, the first were single-sided SIMM modules that appeared in the 80s and, as they were modified, had a volume from 64 KB to 64 MB. They used FPM RAM and EDO RAM memory chips. SIMMs have been replaced by double-sided DIMMs designed for SDRAM memory. They are used in computers to this day.
DDR and DDR2
DDR (Double Data Rate) RAM has become the next stage in the development of SDRAM and is characterized by a doubling of the data transfer rate. The number of contacts (184 versus 168) and keys (1 versus 2) is also different. The first in the line was the PC1600 module with a DDR200 chip, an effective frequency of 200 MHz (with a memory bus clock frequency of 100 MHz) and a bandwidth of 1600 MB/s. The last was to be the PC3200 (DDR400, 400 MHz, 3200 MB/s), but PC4200 (DDR533, 533 MHz) and higher modules were also produced.
In addition to the increased speed, DDR memory had the ability to work in dual-channel mode, which theoretically should have doubled the speed (more precisely, the bandwidth). To do this, it was necessary to insert into the motherboard, which also had to support this mode, two bars with exactly the same characteristics. In practice, the increase in speed is not as noticeable as it is described in theory. Subsequently, the dual-channel mode will be supported by all other types of DDR memory.
DDR SDRAM first appeared in 2001. Today, of course, it can still be found in old computers, but this is a rarity. Already in 2003-2004, it was replaced by DDR2 SDRAM - the second generation with a double bus frequency. DDR2 memory has differences in the package (240 pins and a different key arrangement), which make it not interchangeable with DDR.
The line began with the PC2‑3200 module, which worked on a DDR2‑400 chip with an effective frequency of 400 MHz and a bandwidth of 3200 MB/s. The last stable working module was the PC2‑9600 (DDR2‑1200, 1200 MHz, 9600 MB/s). Modules with higher characteristics were also produced, but their work was not stable.
DDR3
The next stage of evolution was DDR3 RAM. Having appeared in 2007-2008, it did not lead to a sharp departure from DDR2, but began to gradually conquer the memory market. Today it is the most common type of RAM.
Not wanting to abandon the previous generation, manufacturers released motherboards that supported both standards. DDR2 memory is neither electrically nor mechanically compatible with DDR3. Although both types have 240 contacts each, the key is located in different places. The main difference lies in the even lower power consumption and supply voltage (1.5 V) compared to DDR and DDR2.
The DDR3 RAM line starts with the PC3‑6400 (DDR3‑800) module with an effective frequency of 800 MHz and a data transfer rate of 6400 MB/s. Now such modules have already become quite a rarity. This is due to the fact that most modern motherboards support memory frequencies of at least 1333 MHz. Top models support memory up to 3200 MHz (PC3‑25600).
There is a small branch in the DDR3 family - low-level (low-voltage) DDR3L memory, which is characterized by a reduced supply voltage (1.35 V). It is fully compatible with DDR3.
DDR4
The most modern and high-speed is DDR4 RAM. Its mass production began back in 2014, but so far it is far behind DDR3 in terms of popularity and availability. Although the declared characteristics of it are higher, but at the same time the cost has increased significantly. In addition, DDR4 memory is not compatible with DDR3; it is only advisable to choose it when assembling new systems, but not when upgrading old ones.
As for the characteristics, the first in the line is the PC4‑17000 (DDR4‑2133) module with an effective frequency of 2133 MHz and a bandwidth of 17000 MB/s. It is planned that the effective frequency of 4266 MHz and bandwidth of 34100 MB/s (PC4-34100 DDR4-4266) will become the limit for DDR4.
Like every new type of memory, this one differs from its predecessors in the reduction of power consumption and supply voltage (down to 1.2 V), and, of course, the improvement of all speed characteristics. In addition, modules now have a minimum size of 4 GB. The maximum volume theoretically can reach 192 GB.
Where did the RAM go
Probably the most frequently asked question about computer memory will be the question: "Why is RAM not being used to its full extent?". And you can hear it from both beginners and experienced PC users. There may be several reasons for this, but often the answer lies in the bitness of the operating system.
As you know, the 32-bit version of the Windows operating system is capable of working with a memory capacity not exceeding 4 GB. Anything beyond that, she just won't "see". There are no such restrictions in the 64-bit version. Thus, when such a problem is detected, first of all, you should check which version of the OS is installed. You can do this by right-clicking on the "Computer" icon on the desktop (or in the "Start" menu) and selecting the "Properties" tab. The "System" section will contain all the necessary information, including the total and available amount of RAM.
Note that the 64-bit version is available for all modern Windows operating systems (XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10). Therefore, if your computer uses or plans to use more than 4 GB of RAM, you must install a 64-bit Windows operating system. All RAM will be used.
But there are other reasons for reducing the amount of available RAM. This may be a software limitation of the edition of the operating system used (each version has several editions). Also, some volume can be reserved for the built-in video adapter, if any. Do not forget that each motherboard has its own requirements regarding the characteristics and amount of RAM. If they are not met, the memory will not be available.
There are also hardware problems. For example, the module may not be correctly or not fully inserted. It may also have corrupted memory areas. Such a module cannot be repaired and must be replaced immediately. Damage can be detected with special programs.
How to check RAM
In the event of failures and malfunctions that can be caused by problems with RAM (freezing and crashing of the system, the appearance of the so-called "blue screen of death"), it must be checked for errors. This can be done both by standard means of the operating system and by third-party programs.
In Windows 7, RAM is checked by a program called "Windows Memory Checker". You can find it either at the address "Control Panel\System and Security\Administrative Tools", or by searching for the "mdsched" key in the Start menu. Of all the other utilities, the most common, affordable and reliable RAM diagnostic tool is Memtest86+.
It's important to remember a couple of things:
1. RAM is checked not from the operating system (from a bootable flash drive, disk, or after a system reboot).
2. If several memory modules are installed, it is advisable to check them one by one. This will make it easier to determine which one is faulty.
Clearing RAM
The easiest and most effective way to clear RAM is to restart your computer. But it is not suitable for all users and is not useful in all cases. An alternative would be to close unnecessary programs and thereby free up the amount of memory they reserved. You can do this in the "Task Manager" by calling it with the key combination Ctrl + Alt + Delete.
There are also many different programs designed to optimize the consumption of RAM. Utilities such as CleanMem, SuperRam, Wise Memory Optimizer can be noted. And also CCleaner - a universal and very useful system monitoring utility that can effectively clean up memory by deleting temporary files and cache programs and systems, optimizing the registry.
But it is worth remembering that these methods are only a temporary solution to the problem, you should not rely on them. The main problem of the lack of RAM and, as a result, the slow operation of the computer is the insufficient amount of RAM for a specific computer configuration or task. You can solve it by installing an additional memory bar or buying a new larger one.
How much RAM does the computer need
When choosing or upgrading a computer, the following questions often arise: “How to find out the computer’s RAM?”, “How much is needed?”. The answer to the first question is quite simple - you just need to use the CPU-Z utility. She will give a definitive answer. Volume is a little more difficult. If we are talking about upgrading, then the user, most likely, has already encountered a lack of memory and approximately knows how much it needs to be increased.
When assembling a new computer, its purpose is first determined. For normal office work with documents, 1-2 GB is enough. For a mixed-use home computer, 4 GB is acceptable. If you are going to a gaming computer, then you will need at least 8 GB of RAM, but it will be more comfortable with 16 GB. The same applies to serious working machines. The amount of memory required is determined by the applications that will be working with, but is usually at least 8-16 GB.
How to choose RAM
Having figured out how to find out the computer's RAM and how much you need, you can go to the store. But can this information be limited? Definitely not. Of course, first of all, you need to determine what type (for new computers it is DDR3 or DDR4) and the volume you need. But there are several other factors that cannot be neglected.
Firstly, RAM must be consistent with the motherboard and processor, not only in type, but also in the frequency they support. It makes no sense to buy high-speed memory if other components operate at lower frequencies. At best, the memory will operate at a reduced frequency, or even refuse to work at all. If the motherboard supports dual-channel mode, then it is better to buy two identical memory sticks. This will slightly increase its performance. Usually on sale you can find ready-made kits of 2 or 4 memory sticks.
Secondly, you need to pay attention to the labeling. There are special types of memory that have the prefix ECC. It means the presence of additional error control. Most motherboards do not support this kind of memory. RAM for laptops is different from that used in PCs and has a SO-DIMM prefix.
Thirdly, timings are of no small importance. This is a speed characteristic that means signal delay. Denoted by three or four digits separated by a hyphen. For example, 9-8-11-18. Naturally, the lower the number, the better, but for most users, this difference will be almost imperceptible. But timings significantly affect the price.
RAM is an important and complex part of a computer that affects the operation and performance of the entire computer system. She doesn't get out of line that often, but that's the catch, because she's not expected to. Proper diagnostics and troubleshooting in RAM can help avoid costly repairs and will certainly save a lot of time.
Just as two different processors differ, so can RAM. This is true for its value as well. But if a higher price of a processor almost always means that it will be more productive, then the price of a memory is highly dependent on the frequency and timings, which, although guaranteeing a performance increase, often have little effect on the overall system performance. You should pay attention to them only when assembling gaming and high-performance work computers.
RAM
RAM is one of the main components of a computer; without it, the system cannot work. The amount and characteristics of the RAM installed in the system directly affect the speed of the computer. Let's find out at a simple consumer level what it is and why it is needed in a computer at all.
As the name implies, computer RAM or RAM (random access memory) in computer jargon "RAM", as well as simply "memory" is used for operational (temporary) storage of data necessary for work. However, such an explanation is not entirely clear what temporary means and why they should be stored in RAM when there is a hard drive. The easiest question to answer is what does it mean for temporary data storage. RAM is designed in such a way that data is stored in it only while voltage is applied to it, so it is a volatile memory, unlike a hard disk. Turning off the computer, restarting clears the RAM and all data in it at that moment is deleted. Even a short interruption in the voltage supply to the memory strips can reset them or cause damage to a separate piece of information. In other words, the computer's RAM stores the data loaded into it for a maximum of one session of the computer.
So, RAM serves as a buffer between the CPU and the hard drive. The hard drive is non-volatile and stores all the information in the computer, but the payoff for this is its slow speed. If the processor took data directly from the computer's hard drive, it would work like a turtle. The solution to this problem is the use of an additional buffer between them in the form of RAM.
The memory is volatile and requires a constant power supply for its work, but it is many times faster. When the processor needs some data, this data is read from the hard drive and loaded into the RAM, and all further operations with them take place in it. When finished working with them, if the results need to be saved, they are sent back to the hard drive for writing to it, and they are deleted from the RAM to make room for other data. If the results do not need to be saved, the computer's RAM is simply cleared.
This is how their interaction looks in a highly simplified form. In addition to the central processor, other components, such as a video card, may need information from RAM. Naturally, a lot of data is stored in memory at the same time, since all the programs that you run or files you open are loaded into it. The files of the browser through which you are currently viewing this site, as well as the web page itself, are located in RAM.
It is worth noting that the data from the hard drive is exactly copied to the RAM, so until the changes made to them are saved back to the disk, their old version will remain there. It is for this reason that when you open, for example, a Word file and make some changes to it in the editor, you need to save at the end, while the file is loaded back to your hard drive and overwrites the one stored there.
Various computer components do not interact directly with each other, but through various interfaces, so the system bus is used to exchange information between the processor and RAM.
The performance of the entire computer depends on the speed of all its components, and the slowest of them will be a bottleneck that slows down the entire system. The advent of RAM significantly increased the speed of work, but did not solve all the problems. Firstly, the speed of the RAM is not ideal, and secondly, the connecting interfaces also have bandwidth limitations.
Further development of technology has led to the fact that devices requiring high data processing speed began to build their own memory, this eliminates the cost of transferring data back and forth and usually in such cases a faster memory is used than that used in RAM. An example would be a video adapter, a built-in CPU cache, and so on. Even many hard drives now have their own internal high-speed buffer, which allows you to speed up read / write operations. The answer to the question why this high-speed memory is not currently used as operational memory is very simple, there are some technical difficulties, but most importantly, its high cost.
At this point in time, there are two types of memory that can be used as RAM in a computer. Both are random-access semiconductor-based memory. In other words, memory that allows you to access any of its element (cell) at its address.
SRAM (Static random access memory) - is made on the basis of semiconductor triggers and has a very high speed. There are two main disadvantages: high cost and takes up a lot of space. Now it is mainly used for small-capacity caches in microprocessors or in specialized devices where these shortcomings are not critical. Therefore, we will not consider it further.
DRAM (Dynamic random access memory) is the most widely used memory in computers. Built on the basis of capacitors, has a high recording density and relatively low cost. The disadvantages stem from the features of its design, namely, the use of small capacitors leads to a rapid self-discharge of the latter, so their charge has to be periodically replenished. This process is called memory regeneration, hence the name dynamic memory. Regeneration noticeably slows down the speed of its work, therefore, various intelligent schemes are used to reduce time delays.
Technology advances at a rapid pace, and improving memory is no exception. Computer RAM in use today originates from the development of DDR SDRAM memory. It doubled the speed of previous designs by performing two operations per cycle (on the front and on the edge of the signal), hence the name DDR (Double Data Rate). Therefore, the effective data rate is twice the clock rate. Now it can be found practically only in old equipment, but DDR2 SDRAM was created on its basis.
In DDR2 SDRAM, the bus frequency was doubled, but the delays slightly increased. Due to the use of a new package and 240 pins per module, it is not backward compatible with DDR SDRAM and has an effective frequency of 400 to 1200 MHz.
Now the most common memory is the third generation of DDR3 SDRAM. Due to technological solutions and lowering the supply voltage, it was possible to reduce power consumption and raise the effective frequency, which is from 800 to 2400 MHz. Despite the same package and 240 pins, DDR2 and DDR3 memory modules are not electrically compatible with each other. To protect against accidental installation, the key (recess in the board) is located in a different place.
DDR4 is a promising development that will soon replace DDR3 and will have lower power consumption and higher frequencies, up to 4266 MHz.
Along with the frequency of work, timings have a great influence on the final speed of work. Timings are the time delays between a command and its execution. They are necessary so that the memory can "prepare" for its execution, otherwise some of the data may be corrupted. Accordingly, the smaller the timings (memory latency), the better and therefore faster the memory works, all other things being equal. The amount of memory that can be installed in a computer depends on the motherboard. The amount of memory is limited both physically by the number of slots for its installation, and to a greater extent by the software limitations of a particular motherboard or the installed computer operating system.
In general, 2 GB is enough to browse the Internet and work in office programs, if you play modern games or are going to actively edit photos, videos or use other memory-demanding programs, then the amount of installed memory should be increased to at least 4 GB.
Keep in mind that Windows operating systems currently come in two flavors: 32-bit (x32) and 64-bit (x64). The maximum amount available to the operating system in 32-bit versions, depending on various combinations of components, is approximately from 2.8 to 3.2 GB, that is, even if you install 4 GB in your computer, the system will see a maximum of 3.2 GB. The reason for this limitation appeared at the dawn of the advent of operating systems, when no one even in their brightest dreams would have thought of such amounts of memory. There are ways to let a 32-bit system work with 4 GB of memory, but these are all "crutches" and do not work on all configurations.
Also, Windows 7 Initial Starter only has a 32-bit version and is limited to a maximum of 2 GB of RAM.
64-bit versions of the operating system do not experience such problems, for example, Windows 7 Home Basic supports up to 8 GB, and Home Premium up to 16 GB. If all of a sudden this is not enough for you, you are welcome to use the Professional, Corporate or Ultimate versions, where you can install up to 192 GB of memory.
List of used Internet resources
RAM computer
1. https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/%CE%EF%E5%F0%E0%F2%E8%E2%ED%E0%FF_%EF%E0%EC%FF%F2%FC
2. http://beginpc.ru/hardware/operativnaya-pamyat-kompyutera
3. http://smartronix.ru/chto-takoe-operativnaya-pamyat
abbreviated computer working memory called RAM(random access memory) or RAM(random access memory - memory with random access).
The name RAM more accurately reflects the structure and purpose of the device.
Purpose of RAM
- Storage of data and commands for their further transfer to the processor for processing. Information can come from RAM not immediately to be processed by the processor, but to a processor cache that is faster than RAM.
- Storage of the results of calculations made by the processor.
- Reading (or writing) the contents of cells.
Features of the RAM
RAM can only store data when the computer is turned on. Therefore, when it is turned off, the processed data should be saved on a hard disk or other storage medium. When programs are launched, information enters the RAM, for example, from the computer's hard drive. While the program is being worked on, it is present in RAM (usually). As soon as work with it is finished, the data is overwritten on the hard disk. In other words, the flow of information in RAM is very dynamic.
RAM is random access storage device. This means that you can read / write data from any RAM cell at any time. For comparison, for example, magnetic tape is a storage device with sequential access.
RAM logical unit
RAM is made up of cells, each with its own address. All cells contain the same number of bits. Neighboring cells have consecutive addresses. Memory addresses, like data, are expressed in binary numbers.
Typically, one cell contains 1 byte of information (8 bits, the same as 8 bits) and is the smallest unit of information that can be accessed. However, many teams work with so-called words. A word is a memory area consisting of 4 or 8 bytes (other options are possible).
Types of RAM
There are two types of RAM: static (SRAM) and dynamic (DRAM). SRAM is used as the cache memory of the processor, and DRAM is used directly as the main memory of the computer.
SRAM consists of triggers. Flip-flops can only be in two states: "on" or "off" (bit storage). The trigger does not store charge, so switching between states is very fast. However, triggers require more sophisticated manufacturing technology. This inevitably affects the price of the device. Secondly, the flip-flop, consisting of a group of transistors and connections between them, takes up a lot of space (at the micro level), as a result, SRAM turns out to be a rather large device.
AT DRAM there are no flip-flops, and the bit is saved by using one transistor and one capacitor. It turns out cheaper and more compact. However, capacitors store charge, and the charge-discharge process takes longer than trigger switching. As a consequence, DRAM is slower. The second minus is the spontaneous discharge of capacitors. To maintain the charge, it is regenerated at regular intervals, which takes additional time.
Type of RAM module
Externally, the RAM of a personal computer is a module of microcircuits (8 or 16 pieces) on a printed circuit board. The module is inserted into a special slot on the motherboard.
By design, RAM modules for personal computers are divided into SIMM (single sided pinout) and DIMM (double sided pinout). DIMM has a higher data transfer rate than SIMM. Currently, DIMM modules are predominantly produced.
The main characteristics of RAM are information capacity and speed. The capacity of RAM today is expressed in gigabytes.
