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ROM Vs RAM

August 18, 2021 , , ,

 ROM Vs RAM: Difference

The computer's memory is a crucial component that stores information and data, either permanently or temporarily.

ROM Vs RAM difference


What is RAM?

While the computer is powered on, data is momentarily stored in Random Access Memory. This indicates that the data has been stored in the RAM for use when you switch between recently opened programs. The computer can recover it more faster as a result.

This is why opening a program takes so much longer than simply switching back to it. Opening a program makes the PC get data from your SSD or HDD, which are comparatively slow. Switching to a program that’s already open, or sometimes even recently closed is quicker because RAM is far faster than storage.

RAM is volatile, meaning it loses data when the power is off, and it's used for temporary storage of actively used data and programs. ROM is non-volatile, retaining data even when powered off, and it stores essential startup instructions and firmware. 

Types of RAM

  • Static RAM: Static RAM or SRAM stores a bit of data using the state of a six-transistor memory cell.
  • Dynamic RAM: Dynamic RAM or DRAM stores a bit of data using a pair of transistors and capacitors which constitute a DRAM memory cell.

Advantages of RAM

  • Speed: RAM is perfect for storing and retrieving data that must be accessed rapidly since it operates far more swiftly than other forms of memory, such hard disk drives.
  • RAM stands for volatile memory, which means that when the power is switched off, its contents are lost. This characteristic makes it simple to reprogramme and reuse RAM.
  • Flexibility: More memory can be added as needed because RAM is easily expanded and improved.

What is ROM?

A permanent, non-volatile form of memory is called read-only memory. As the name suggests, it is often only accessible once generated and cannot be altered. Your computer needs it because ROM is the ideal location to store crucial information and instructions that won't change. Unlike RAM, the data is unaffected by a power outage.

Types of ROM

  • Programmable ROM: It is a type of ROM where the data is written after the memory chip has been created. It is non-volatile.
  • Erasable Programmable ROM: It is a type of ROM where the data on this non-volatile memory chip can be erased by exposing it to high-intensity UV light.
  • Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM: It is a type of ROM where the data on this non-volatile memory chip can be electrically erased using field electron emission.
  • Mask ROM: It is a type of ROM in which the data is written during the manufacturing of the memory chip.

Advantages of ROM

  • Non-volatile: ROM, or random-access memory, keeps its data even after the power is switched off. Because of this feature, ROM is perfect for storing persistent data, such system software and firmware.
  • Stability: ROM is a suitable option for essential systems and applications since it is dependable and stable.
  • Security: Because ROM is difficult to alter, it is less vulnerable to harmful threats like malware and viruses.