How does RAM differ from ROM?
Random Access Memory vs Read Only Memory
What is the difference between SRAM and DRAM?
DRAM: Dynamic Random Access Memory; uses transistors and capacitors and stores data in bits. Primarily used as system memory.
SRAM: Static Random Access Memory; uses switches; provides much faster access to data. Primarily used for cache. Costs roughly 10x as much as SRAM.
What are two advantages of using DDR3 memory over DDR2?
a
What are two places where the memory controller might be located in modern PC systems?
b
Why is consulting the motherboard documentation so important when purchasing memory?
v
You have DDR2 memory with a CAS latency of 6 and DDR3 memory with a CAS latency of 7. What can you tell about the relative speed of the two memory modules?
d
What is the difference between ECC and registered memory?
f
SDRAM: (Single Data Rate SDRAM)
Frequency of memory is synched with frequency frequency of system clock. Sends one command (instruction) per cycle, with one set (64-bits) of data per length. 3.3v @ 33-166 MHz
DDR SDRAM: (Double Data Rate Memory)
One command per cycle with TWO data sets. Twice the amount of data. 2.5v @ 100-200 MHz
DDR2 SDRAM:
Four data sets per clock cycle. 1.8v @ 200-533 MHz. Buffer between data bus and memory.
DDR3 SDRAM:
Eight data sets per clock cycle. 1.5v @ 400-1000 MHz. Buffer included.
RDRAM: Rambus RAM
Legacy version of post-DDR. Transfers data in 32 bits, 2 data sets per cycle. System must be configured with a continuity module in empty slots.
SIMM: Single Inline Memory Module
Obsolete term. Used for older memory.
DIMM: Dual Inline Memory Module
Any variation of DDR RAM.
SO-DIMM: Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module
Used in laptops. Difference is only size. Capacity is the same, but number of sticks needed might be double.
RIMM: Rambus Inline Memory Module
Only used for Rambus memory. (Legacy machines only)
