Types of computer memory (RAM and ROM)

Memory is the most essential element of a computing system because without it computer
can’t perform simple tasks. Computer memory is of two basic type – Primary memory / Volatile
memory and Secondary memory / non-volatile memory. Random Access Memory (RAM) is
volatile memory and Read Only Memory (ROM) is non-volatile memory.

1. Random Access Memory (RAM):

Random Access Memory is a computer memory that can be accessed randomly; i.e. any byte of
memory can be retrieved without affecting the preceding bytes. The information stored in this
type of memory is lost when the power supply to the PC or laptop is switched off. The
information stored in RAM can be checked with the help of BIOS. It is generally known as the
main memory or temporary memory or cache memory or volatile memory of the computer
system.

Types of RAM:

a) Static RAM: Static RAM is the full form of SRAM. In this type of RAM, data is stored
using the state of a six transistor memory cell. Static RAM is mostly used as a cache
memory for the processor (CPU).
b) Dynamic RAM: DRAM stands for Dynamic Random Access Memory. It is a type of RAM
which allows you to stores each bit of data in a separate capacitor within a specific
integrated circuit. Dynamic RAM is a standard computer memory of the many modern
desktop computers.

2. Read Only Memory (ROM):

A computer memory on which data has been prerecorded or permanently stored is called ROM.
When the data has been written on a ROM, Read Only Memory chip, it cannot be erased or
removed without the user’s permission, it can only be read.

Types of ROM:

a) Mask ROM: Mask ROM is a type of ROM, that is masked off during production. "Mask"
refers to parts of an integrated circuit, a thin electronic circuit for processing data, that
is covered with opaque plates called photomasks.
b) Programmable ROM: Programmable ROM is the full form of PROM. PROM is able to re-
programmed by using PROM Programmer. Generally, a PROM can be changed or
updated only once.
c) Erasable programmable ROM: This type of ROM can have its contents erased by
ultraviolet light and then reprogrammed by a PROM programmer. This procedure can
be carried out many times but the constant erasing and rewriting will eventually render
the clip useless.
d) Electrically EPROM: EEPROM works similar way to flash memory in which its contents
can be flashed for erasure and then written to without having to remove the clip from
its environment. EEPROMs are used to store the computer system BIOS and can be
updated.
Exception: Flash memory is an uncommon type of EEPROM that can be erased and also
reprogrammed in blocks rather than one byte at a time.