What Is DRAM Memory? Dynamic Random-Access Memory Explained

Updated on Dec 08, 2023 | by Kent

PAGE CONTENT:

What Is DRAM Memory?
How Does DRAM Work?
Types of DRAM Memory
Advantages and Disadvantages of DRAM
DRAM VS SRAM

Memory is the most fundamental property that everyone cares about when buying a laptop or computer. It helps the users keep their data safe and allows the processor to boost the working smoothly. Normally, you may have learned about RAM because it is a well-known memory type worldwide.

But you have to learn about DRAM too because of its multiple features. This blog will show you an overview of this extended version of RAM that will boost your device's working experience. Let's get started and read about this.

What Is Dram Memory?

It is a common type of RAM that enables the computer to run a function or process smoothly. DRAM memory is used widely in the world because of its cost-effective but valuable results. It is not only used in specific types of computers, but you can also use it in personal computers and workstations.

dram memory

This type of RAM's primary purpose is to access any computer section after getting instructions instantly. In this way, it allows the users to experience fast processing and beyond expectation working.

How Does DRAM Work?

DRAM is a specific kind of semiconductor used in the computer to store data in the form of bits. Whether you are talking about RAM or DRAM memory, you need to understand their manufacturing to understand working.

A storage device is designed by combining bits in two-dimensional grids. Whenever you use a device for storing purposes, it will save the data in the form of bits. A capacitor and transistor enclose every memory cell at both ends.

dram column decoder

When you try to save data, a charge will be sent in a column that will activate the transistor. To avoid leaks, a DRAM cell has to get a consistent electronic charge. We all know that semiconductor storage devices are getting popular because of their efficient work.

The main reason behind their popularity and effective working is to respond to signals effectively and precisely. Its instructions will indicate to the cell whether to accept the charge or not.

Types of DRAM Memory

One of the most used types of semiconductor memory, it is available in different types. Here we have enlisted the five most common types of DRAM memory with a brief overview.

Synchronous DRAM

It is one of the most beneficial types of DRAMs. The main reason behind its popularity and efficiency is the synchronization of memory speed with the CPU clock cycle. It will help the processor to understand multiple instructions and process them at the same time.

Rambus DRAM

It is an older type of DRAM designed for a specific purpose. The main feature of this memory type is to allow you to experience higher graphics and enjoy multiple games on your computer.

Fast Page Mode DRAM

When you are looking to search a specific page within a fraction of a second, FPM DRAM can help you. It is one of the best choices when you are looking for a semiconductor device with higher performance.

Extended Data Out DRAM

This DRAM improves the processing for the RAM to read the memory from microprocessors. In simple words, it enhances the speed of finding a specific memory section from the processor.

Error Correction Code DRAM

This DRAM will enable you to be safe by finding corrupted files and data. It will help you to check different errors in your device's processor and fix them.

Advantages and Disadvantages of DRAM

Like every other storage type, DRAM memory also has some advantages and disadvantages. To learn about this memory in detail, you should read this section where we have enlisted them.

Advantages of DRAM

Boost Processing Speed

Almost every computer user knows that RAM enables the device to speed up processing. It is undoubtedly right, but DRAM is much faster than ordinary RAM. It will help your computer to find and extract data from the processor within a few milliseconds instead of taking minutes.

Higher Storage Density

Unlike RAM, it will not only enable you to save a few hundreds of bites. DRAM is based on bits instead of bites, which makes it much more supportive and higher density in terms of storage. In simple words, you can maximize the storage limit just after installing DRAM on your device.

Cost-Effective

DRAM is much cheaper than ordinary RAM or SRAM. You can use this device to save a lot of data in your device by investing a small amount.

Disadvantages of DRAM

Consume More Power

As mentioned above, DRAM is faster than standard RAM. Due to this, it will consume more power to search the memory or hard disk that you have installed on your device.

Heat The Device

Being powerful, it will extract more heat as compared to normal devices. Due to this, your computer will get hot within a few minutes, and you might not be able to use it in such a condition.

Volatile In Nature

We know that RAM is volatile in nature, meaning it will vanish data if it accidentally stops working. DRAM, being its type, is also volatile, making it less beneficial than other devices like HDD or SSD.

DRAMv.s SRAM

SRAM is also another famous type of RAM that is designed by using the latching circuit technique. It stores each bit of storage to avoid loss of data. But it is also volatile in nature which means it will lose your data if power is removed accidentally without saving.

sram vs dram

Image credit-storagepartsdirect

To understand the working of DRAM and its efficiency, you need to learn about the differences between DRAM and SRAM. Here is a quick overview regarding the comparison between these two.

DRAM takes lesser space as compared to SRAM.
SRAM has more number of elements per bit than DRAM.
SRAM is faster in reading and exploring the processor as compared to DRAM.
DRAM reads multiple-byte page level while SRAM reads a single-byte page level.
SRAM works on the principle of current flow in one direction while DRAM works on the concept of holding the charge in a storage cell.

Final Words

In the above sections, we have discussed DRAM memory, it's working, and its difference from others. With the complete guide, you must have learned about this type of volatile memory. Before installing this type of RAM, you should examine your computer properly and ensure it is ready to accept this memory type.