Q1: Define and Differentiate between RAM and ROM.
RAM
The most common type of memory is called random access memory, otherwise known as RAM. Hence in
terms of computers, the term memory is generally used to refer to RAM. The RAM holds data and
program instructions whilst the CPU is using them. Hence RAM is temporary memory in that it
temporarily holds onto data. RAM is volatile meaning it loses its contents when the computer is shut off
or if there is a power surge/ failure. RAM has a huge impact on the speed and power of a computer, as the
more RAM a computer has, the more it can do and the faster it can perform certain tasks. Memory is
usually measured in bytes, of which 1 byte is composed of 8 bits. It can be measured in kilobyte,
megabyte, gigabyte, and terabyte.
ROM
Unlike the RAM, read only memory (ROM) permanently stores data, even when the computer is off. The
ROM is nonvolatile memory in that it never loses its contents. The ROM aids a computer in starting up in
that it searches for specific directions in starting up (for example if you program your computer to boot
from a flash drive), and for information about its hardware devices.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN RAM AND ROM
Temporary vs Permanent
The RAM holds on to data temporarily whilst the ROM is considered permanent data.
Storage Capabilities
The ROM is non-volatile in that it doesn’t lose its data stored in the event of a power failure. Hence it
doesn’t require a power source to store data. The RAM however is volatile as it loses the data stored in
the event of a power surge or power issue and it requires power to store data.
Uses
The RAM is used in computers to temporarily store files on the computer, while the ROM is often used in
the startup of the computer ie; it is used to store the BIOS (Basic Input Output System) program on the
motherboard.
Storage Capacity
ROM chips tend to have a storage capacity of 4-8 MB while RAM chips tend to have a storage capacity
of 1-256 GB. Hence the RAM can hold on to a massive amount of data, but only if there’s a power
source.
Physical Size
The ROM can have a varying size as it can be less than an inch in length to multiple inches in length and
width which depends on their use. The RAM however is more standardized, in that it is usually available
in 2 primary sizes depending on if it is used in a desktop or a laptop. The desktop RAM is about 5 ½
inches in length and 1 inch in width. Laptop RAM is about half the length of the desktop RAM.
Q2: What are the different types of RAM and ROM.
TYPES OF RAM AND ROM
Types of RAM
Static RAM, or (SRAM)
It stores a bit of data using the state of a six transistor or memory cell. SRAM is generally used as
a cache memory for processors. It is generally not replaceable by the end user. SRAM (static read
only memory) does not have to be periodically refreshed. Static RAM provides faster access to
data and is more expensive than DRAM. SRAM is used for a computer's cache memory and as
part of the random-access memory digital-to-analog converter on a video card.
Dynamic RAM, or (DRAM)
It stores a bit data using a pair of transistor and capacitor which constitute a DRAM memory cell.
Dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) is a type of RAM that stores data using a pair of
transistors and capacitors. DRAM is comparatively cheaper than SRAM, but the operating speed
is slow. Their replaceability makes them suitable for computer systems whose memory modules
can be replaced/upgraded.
Types of ROM
Programmable ROM
PROM or programmable ROM (programmable read-only memory) is a computer memory chip
that can be programmed once after it is created. Once the PROM is programmed, the information
written is permanent and cannot be erased or deleted. If a PROM is programmed with an error or
needs updated, the chip is discarded and a new PROM is created, replacing the old chip. PROM
was first developed by Wen Tsing Chow in 1956. An example of a PROM is a computer BIOS in
early computers. Today, PROM in computers has been replaced by EEPROM also known as
electrically erasable programable read only rom.
Erasable Programmable ROM
EPROM is a non-volatile memory chip that can only be read. It was invented by Dov Frohman in
1971 while at Intel. If exposed to ultraviolet light, an EPROM can be reprogrammed if needed,
but otherwise does not accept or save any new data. Hardware manufactures use EPROM when
there may be a need for the data on the EPROM to be changed. An EPROM chip is
distinguishable by a small quartz crystal in the form of a circle window that exposes the chip so
that it be reprogrammed. Today, EPROM chips are not used in computers. They were replaced by
EEPROM chips.
Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM
Short for electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, EEPROM is a PROM that can
be erased and reprogrammed using an electrical charge. EEPROM was developed by George
Perlegos while at Intel in 1978 and unlike most memory inside a computer, it remembers its data
without power hence it is a non-volatile memory chip. Having a computer with an EEPROM
allows the user to update the computer BIOS without having to open the computer or remove any
chips.
Mask ROM
Unlike these other computer memory chips, Mask ROM (MROM) chips are produced by
arranging transistors before the semiconductor manufacturing process begins. Often, Mask ROM
(MROM) chips are used in computer systems that require long-term sustainability. Thus the data
is written during the manufacturing of the memory chip and is manufactured with its contents.
