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Nupur yadav
Updated on 19th June, 2024 , 4 min read
Difference Between RAM and ROM
Introduction
The Computer is an electronic device that helps in processing complex data and information. Memory is an essential part of the computer which enables it to store important information. Computer memory is of two types primary and secondary.
Primary memory
Primary memory is the memory that is used when the user is currently working on the computer and the data that is needed at that time. It has less storage than the secondary memory.
There are two types:
- RAM
- ROM
Secondary Memory
It is the opposite of primary memory, it is used to permanently store data and information. It also has a larger bandwidth to store information. But this memory is not reachable via CPU. We can understand better by example devices like HardDisk, Compact Disc (CD), Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) and Floppy Disk are types of secondary memory.
Difference Between RAM and ROM
Before knowing about the difference, let’s find out the full form of RAM, which is Random Access Memory. As the name suggests it stores the random data that is working on currently.
That data is not stable and goes away once the device loses power.
ROM, on the other hand, is the opposite of RAM and is non-volatile, meaning it does not disappear once the power goes away. The full form of ROM is read-only memory We usually use it where we don't want our data to be volatile, just like the basic input-output functions of our computer.
In this article, we will discuss What is RAM ROM, RAM VS ROM, Difference between RAM and ROM, Types of RAM and ROM and more.
What is RAM?
Random Access Memory stores your data while we are working on the computer. This means that the data that you have worked on, it stays even if the tabs are switched. By doing this the data can be reclaimed quickly and fast.
We can understand with an example when you open a program it takes longer to open it and switching it back requires less time. This happens because opening a program requires the PC to get data from Solid state drives (SSD) and hard disk drives (HDD) which is comparatively slow. Switching takes less time because RAM is faster than storage.
There are two types of RAM
- Static RAM: The Static RAM is the one which stores the data in the same six-transistor memory cell.
- Dynamic RAM: Dynamic RAM stores data in the memory cell of Dynamic RAM which consists of a pair of transistors and capacitors.
Advantages of RAM
- Speed: RAM is much faster than other categories of memory, such as hard disk drives, making it suitable for storing and retrieving data that requires quick access.
- RAM is volatile memory, which means it loses its contents when the power is switched off. This characteristic enables RAM to be easily reprogrammed and reused.
- RAM is easily upgradeable and expandable, allowing for additional memory to be installed as required.
Disadvantages of RAM
- RAM has a finite capacity, which limits the amount of data that can be stored and accessible at any one moment.
- Volatility: Because RAM is volatile, data must be saved to a more permanent storage medium, such as a hard drive or SSD, to avoid data loss.
- RAM can be expensive, especially high-capacity modules, making it difficult to grow memory as needed.
What is ROM?
Read-only memory is the memory which is permanent and does not change. Since it can not be changed once it is created and only be read it is named as the Read Only memory. ROM is essential for the basic function of the computer as ROM is the place where all the essential data is stored along with the essential instructions.
Even if the device loses power the data is not lost and stays unaffected.
Types of ROM
There are 4 types ROM, which are mentioned below:
- Programmable ROM: it is the non-volatile type of memory, where data is added once the chip is made.
- Erasable Programmable ROM: it is non-volatile and exposure to UV light leads to removal of data.
- Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM: it is non-volatile as well except the data is removed with field electron emission.
- Mask ROM: it is a type of memory that is added during the production of that chip.
Advantages of ROM
- Non-volatile: ROM is non-volatile memory, which means it preserves its contents even after the power is switched off. This characteristic makes ROM useful for storing permanent data like firmware and system software.
- Stability: ROM is stable and dependable, making it an excellent solution for important systems and applications.
- Security: Because ROM cannot be easily manipulated, it is less vulnerable to hostile attacks such as viruses and malware.
Disadvantages of ROM
ROM has limited versatility because it cannot be easily reprogrammed or updated, making it impossible to modify or customize its contents.
Limited capacity: The quantity of data that can be stored and accessible at any given time is limited by the capacity of the ROM.
Cost: ROM can be somewhat expensive to manufacture, especially for custom or specialized applications, making it less cost-effective than other forms of memory.
Conclusion
In conclusion, RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory) are two types of computer memory with distinct characteristics. RAM is a fast, volatile memory that stores and processes transitory data. In contrast, ROM is a non-volatile memory that is used to store long-term data, such as firmware. RAM is more flexible, but more expensive, whereas ROM is more solid and secure, but has less freedom. Understanding the distinctions between these two forms of memory is critical for running a computer and managing files effectively.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is RAM?
stores the random data that is working on currently. That data is not stable and goes away once the device loses power.
What is ROM?
ROM is non-volatile, meaning it does not disappear once the power goes away. The full form of ROM is read-only memory We usually use it where we don't want our data to be volatile, just like the basic input-output functions of our computer.
What are the types of RAM?
There are two types of RAM, static and dynamic. Static RAM: The Static RAM is the one which stores the data in the same six transistor memory cell. Dynamic RAM: Dynamic RAM stores data in the memory cell of Dynamic RAM which consists of a pair of transistors and capacitors.
What is often stored in ROM?
ROM is usually used for storing the essential function of the computer, so that it starts the same way. It also conducts the important tasks such as the large input and output tasks which helps in protecting programs or software instructions.
What is RAM used for?
RAM is used for storing the data that is being worked upon right now and its timely retrieval.