Memory, the common term used for RAM (random access memory) is an indispensable part of computational devices be they personal computers, servers, laptops, or notebooks. RAM is volatile in nature, in that information stored is lost when power supply is switched off. Memories of computing devices could be scaled up as per the demands of application.

These are non exclusive items and could be fitted into different makes of computers. However the compatibility of RAM depends on the motherboard architecture and slot design. As memory modules are fitted into slots the number of pins of the RAM module must perfectly match the number of slot sockets. Even when RAM modules are upgraded in terms of capacity, the slot architecture must remain unchanged.

Memory Types – Basically two kinds of RAM are used in modern computing devices: SRAM (static random access memory) and DRAM (dynamic random access memory). SRAM is faster but more expensive as compared to DRAM. Though SRAM is faster and consumes less power, it is not preferred by computer manufacturers because of its high price. Markets being highly price sensitive, consumers prefer using DRAM though they have to compromise on speed and energy consumption.

Memories are now manufactured in synchronized form (SDRAM or synchronous dynamic RAM) wherein the memory speed perfectly synchronizes with the CPU bus speed. A DDR (double data rate) SDRAM allows transfer of data during both the rising and falling parts of clock cycles. Commercially this form of RAM is sold just as DDR and not DDR SDRAM. The transfer speed of DDR is 1600 MB per second. DDR that was available with 184 pins is now superseded by DDR2 with 240 pins. Thus a system having DDR SDRAM cannot be upgraded to a DDR2 SDRAM.

Memories for desktop computers are now available in capacities of 1GB, 2GB, and 4GB.

Laptop Memory – Memory modules for laptop computers have different design as compared to those of desktop varieties. As the design for desktop memory is specific to motherboard architecture, it is likewise with laptops too. Memory designed for laptop computers could be fitted into laptops only and not into desktop models or servers. Some of the variations of RAM available for laptops include 200 pin 667 MHz 2GB DDR2, 800 MHz 4GB (2 x 2GB) DDR2, and 1066 MHz 4GB DDR3.

Memory Card and readers – A memory card is a data storage device that stores digital information in devices like cameras, laptops, video game consoles, mobile handsets, and MP3 players. These are re recordable and able to retain data even when power is switched off. These digital optical storage devices are small and could fit into your pocket.

A reader is required to read the data stored in these cards. There could be as many as twenty different types of memory card readers. If categorized according to the number slots, there are three varieties of readers, namely, series card reader, multi-card reader, and single card reader.

USB Flash Drives – These are small data storage devices consisting of flash memory. The term USB indicates integrated Universal Serial Bus interface which makes it a rewritable and removable device. These are used for same purposes as CD-ROMs and floppy disks but with much larger capacity. As moving parts are limited in UWB flash drives these are dependable and durable.

Computer memory is of great concern for Priyanka Berry, be it memory cards & card readers or USB flash drives.

Computer memory is of great concern for Priyanka Berry, be it Memory cards & readers or USB flash drives. Visit http://framt.com/fs/Memory-lpc78 for more…

Author Bio: Computer memory is of great concern for Priyanka Berry, be it memory cards & card readers or USB flash drives.

Category: Computers and Technology
Keywords: laptop memory, memory card and readers, USB Flash drives, memory