What is DRAM ?
DRAM (Dynamic Random-Access Memory) is a type of computer memory used to store data that a system or device is actively using or processing. It’s the most common kind of RAM (Random-Access Memory) found in computers, laptops, and many other digital devices.
Key Characteristics of DRAM:
- Volatile: It loses all stored data when power is turned off.
- Dynamic: Unlike SRAM (Static RAM), DRAM needs to be constantly refreshed (recharged) many times per second to maintain data.
- High Density & Low Cost: DRAM can store more data per chip than SRAM, making it cheaper and more suitable for system memory.
- Slower than SRAM: But faster than other storage like SSDs or HDDs, so it’s used for active data processing.
How It Works:
DRAM stores each bit of data in a tiny capacitor within an integrated circuit. These capacitors leak charge, so a refresh circuit recharges them thousands of times per second.
Common Types of DRAM:
- SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM): Works in sync with the CPU clock.
- DDR (Double Data Rate): Variants like DDR2, DDR3, DDR4, and DDR5 offer increasing speed and efficiency.