Random Access Memory

INTRODUCTION
Random Access Memory (RAM) is basically a type of computer storage. A RAM device has the capacity to access data in a random order hence making it fast to locate specific data. Other storage devices like hard disk drives and CD’s read and write data in an already predetermined order since the mechanical design of these devices only permits that data access is consecutive while RAM allows data to be read or written in the same amount of time regardless of the physical location of data. That is why it is called read and write memory.
RAM is also called the main memory or direct access memory. Like the name implies, Random Access meaning every byte in the entire memory is completely accessible. RAM devices make use of integrated circuits

The first single-transistor DRAM cell (which could hold a single bit of data) was developed in 1966 by Dr. Robert H. Dennard at IBM. In 1970, the newly formed Intel Corporation released the world's first commercially available DRAM chip, the 1103, which had a capacity of about a thousand bits. This uses very small transistors, making it possible to store a lot more information on a very small area. However, this increase in memory density came at the cost of volatility as every transistor needs constant power to function. This best-selling product was available at a much lower cost and smaller size when compared with core memories and immediately started replacing them. Today's RAM still relies on this same principle.

TYPES OF RAM
The SRAM (Static RAM) and DRAM (Dynamic RAM) are the most popular types of RAM out there
DRAM: This is the most widely used type of RAM. In the dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a transistor and a capacitor are paired to create a memory cell, which represents a single bit of data. The capacitor holds the bit of information a 0 or a 1
The transistor acts as a switch that lets the control circuitry on the memory chip read the capacitor or change its state.
A capacitor is like a small bucket that is able to store electrons. To store a 1 in the memory cell, the bucket is filled with electrons. To store a 0, it is emptied.

Access times can vary from 9-70 nanoseconds. Access time is a function of latency and transfer time. Latency simply put is the delay from input into a system to desired outcome.

OPPOSITE OF RAM
The opposite of RAM is SAM (sequential access memory). It is a type of data storage that reads data in sequence (just like a cassette tape). This is unlike RAM where data can be accessed in any random order. Despite the fact that data is read in sequence, random locations could still be accessed by “seeking” to the required locations though this is time consuming and inefficient.

MEMORY MODULES
A memory module is a printed circuit board on which memory integrated circuits are mounted. They enable easy installation and replacement in computers today. The first types of memory modules were proprietary meaning that they could only work with the manufacturers system until the introduction of SIMM (single in line memory module). As processors speed and bandwidth increased, the dual in line memory module was adopted (DIMM). It has a 168-pin or 184-pin connector and can range in capacity from 8MB to 1GB per module unlike the SIMM which used 72-pin and allowed up to 256MB of RAM. Other types of modules are the Trans-Flash memory module, Rambus and SO DIMM (smaller outline DIMM used in