The System Memory is more commonly called RAM orRandom Access Memory.This is the memory used by the computer to hold programs and data.
This data is lost once the computer is turned off.Because demands by powerful software have skyrocketed, system memory requirements have been accelerating at an alarming pace.
Random Access Memory is mounted directly onto themotherboard and transfers data by use of address anddata buses.Each data bus consist of a number of circuits.
In 1985,Intel had the 386 processor with its 32 bit bus andthe Pentium processor came along in 1993 with a large64 bit bus.RAM memory is made using DRAM Chips.
RAM chips are large rectangular shaped and made with memory cells with support logic that reads and writes data.These chips must be continously refreshed,that is,data isconstantly sent to allow the cells to hold data.
Information being transferred between the CPU Chip andRAM memory is called a memory cycle.During the late90s,the DIMM chip was the standard RAM Chip.So justwhat is this DIMM chip? Let's talk about the differentRam memory chips used in the computer.
Static RAM is a type of RAM that holds its data without beingrefreshed, for as long as power is supplied to the circuit. This is contrasted to dynamic RAM (DRAM), which must be refreshed many times per second in order to hold its data contents.
TYPES OF RANDOM ACCEESS MEMORY CHIPS
SIMM or Single Inline Memory Modules came on the scene in the early 90s.The SIMM chips first came with30 pins.And then the 72 pin SIMM which had 32 bitdata paths or buses.
DIMM or Dual Inline Memory Module replace the Simmchips.These chips had 168 pins as compared to the72 pin Simm variety.The data bus of the 30 pin chipwas 8 bits while the 72 data bus can send data on the32 bit data bus.
DIMMs also come in a smaller form factors suitable for use in notebook computers. These SO DIMMs or Small Outline DIMMs are available in both 32-bit wide/72-pin and 64-bit wide/144-pin form factors.
RIMM came in 1999 and the connectors for this newchip fits in the same sockets as the DIMM chips.Theyhave 184 pins as compared to the Dimm which have168 pins.
The RIMM chip was to come along when DRDRAM OR Direct Rambus DRAM: a totally new
RAM architecture,was introduced.A single Rambus Channel has the potential to reach 500 MBps in burst mode; a 20- fold increase over DRAM.
Computers will have DRAM for their main system memory, instead of SRAM, even though DRAMs are slower than SRAM.The reason that DRAMs are used is that they are cheaper and take up much less space.To build a 64 MB core memory from SRAMs would be very expensive .
All computers will contain a Memory Controller which,asits name implies,control the memory.It generates signalsto regulate the reading and writing of information to andfrom the memory.The system chipset is normally wherethe memory controller is integrated.
And just what are the chipsets? Well,they are like thetraffic cops for all chips on the motherboard.They keepin check such data transfer from and to the CPU, databuses,printer,video card,and nearly all other devices.
Data flow is such a critical issue in the operation and performance of so many parts of the computer, the chipset is one of the few components that have a truly major impact on your PC's quality, feature set, and speed.
THE TYPE OF RAM MEMORY IN YOUR PC
How can you know what type of memory is right for your PC.Using a memory configurator is one quick way to solve is problem.Some memory makers will have a memoryconfigurator on their site.
The best way to determine the type of memory you usein your computer is to read the owner's manual.No owner's manual,no problem.Visit your computersmotherboard web site should you need assistance.
Another very important thing to considerwhen buying yourmemory is to be sure it is compatible with your system. And you'll need to decide how much memory you need and consider the price, quality, availability, service, and warranty.