Computer RAM or Random Access Memory is a computer system's temporary
storage area. Computer RAM is often simply referred to as memory,
system memory or computer memory. All data in the computer RAM can be
randomly accessed by the computer without going through the entire RAM;
thus, its name. This makes RAM very different from SAM or Serial Access
Memory which requires data to be read in a certain order before you can
get to the one you want. A classic example of SAM storage devices are
cassette and video tapes.
Because data and information are only temporarily stored in the
computer RAM, it is considered to be a volatile storage device as
opposed to non-volatile storage hardware like hard disk drives, which
can store and safeguard data for years even in a dormant state and
without any electrical power. All data in the computer RAM is removed
and lost once the computer is turned off.
The computer uses RAM to store data that it needs immediate access
to. Date and information typically parked in RAM are those that are
required to run open applications and software programs. Data in
computer RAM can be retrieved by the computer CPU at high speeds.
Computer Memory RAM speed is expressed in megahertz (MHz). A 1033MHz
RAM module can send and receive values faster than RAM modules of 800
MHz.
If you open too many programs your computer, perform too many tasks
simultaneously, or run draining applications like PC games and
video-editing software, you will likely run out of RAM. When this
happens, the computer will use the hard disk drive to temporarily store
extra data. This is called "swapping." Swapping will result in a
significant drop on your computer's performance since data transfer
rates between the hard drive and CPU are not blazing fast like those
between the CPU and RAM.
With a large RAM, computers will be able to perform more tasks and at
a faster pace too since the CPU has ready access to more data and
information. It
is highly recommended for modern computers to come equipped with at
least 1GB of RAM. For high-performance workstations like gaming PCs, at
least 2GB of RAM is advisable.
You can add more RAM to your computer by plugging in more RAM modules
or memory sticks on your motherboard. Some motherboards can accommodate
only two sticks while others can have as many as four memory sticks.
You need to check your motherboard's layout to determine the number of
RAM modules that it can support.
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