There are different types of electronic memory and each has its own function within a system. Whether in a large and complete computer or even in a small and compact device (such as a cell phone), memory is a fundamental item for the proper functioning of most of the available operations.
In this context, better understanding what types of memory are in a machine or electronic device is useful to make better use of the system’s functionalities and also to follow the correct path when carrying out maintenance (when necessary). Follow the text and learn more about the types of memory that exist in devices.
What this article covers:
What are and what types of memory?
Memory, in the context of electronic devices, is a part of the system responsible for storing processable data, that is, there is a part of the electronic device where information of different types is stored that can be used by the processor to perform different operations.
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In memory, it is possible to store data such as images, music, electronic games, videos, access information to websites (cache), software, among many other things, including basic data related to the machine’s own system and without which it cannot function. .
There are various types of data that can be stored, there are also different memory. See more below.
RAM memory
Among the types of memory, RAM is the best known for being responsible for storing temporary data related to programs, that is, software, and it also supports other types of information. Its main characteristic is that it is volatile, that is, when the computer is turned off, its information is lost.
ROM memory
ROM memory is different from RAM because it is responsible for storing data that is not lost when the machine is turned off or restarted. This makes its function very important, since it is in the ROM memory that basic information for the system initialization to happen is stored. Another feature of ROM is that it is read-only, that is, the data present in it cannot be changed, only read.
Types of ROM Memory
There are different types of ROM memory that can be used in electronic devices. The main ones are the PROM and the EPROM, check below what differentiates them.
PROM
PROM is a type of ROM that can be programmed by someone (the user). These devices have a structure made of diodes that are burned during manufacturing, in order to generate a physical reaction and record information on the chip.
This memory also has a mechanism that allows the recording or programming of data by the customer, however, after this operation it is no longer possible to erase or change the present data.
EPROM
The EPROM is the PROM with one more feature: the possibility to erase the stored data and rewrite them. This is only possible, however, with the use of specific tools. In this case, it is necessary to use UV rays to erase the information present on the chip.
Types of RAM Memory
There are also different types of RAM memory. Each has its own characteristics, but the main difference between them is related to performance. Check out some of the existing RAM memories below.
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DIMM
They are simpler memories, characterized by having contact terminals on both sides of the device (the comb). Data transmission on it is done at 64 bits at a time.
DDR
More modern than the DIMM, the DDR was developed to perform better than the first one. Available in the following frequencies: 266Mhz, 333Mhz and 400Mhz.
DDR2
DDR2 is even better than DDR, in addition to having better performance, it was created to improve energy consumption and lower machine heating.
DDR3
DDR3 follows the trend of improved performance over previous models. Its transfer rate, for example, is twice that of DDR2.
These are some of the types of memory that exist in the most diverse electronic devices on the market. Knowing what these parts are can help a lot to make better use of the device and understand when and how to maintain it.
