By Alba Soriano of Think Big. The RAM (Random Access Memory) is a type of computer component in which the data of the programs that are being used at that moment in the computer are stored.
Within the choice of RAM, we can find static RAM or SRAM: once the data is stored, it will be maintained; as long as the module is powered with electricity. But we also find DRAM memories.
So, which one should we choose?
The DRAM It has two advantages over SRAM that make it necessary. The DRAM allows you to store More data than an SRAM module of similar size. This makes them benefit from a smaller size and also makes them cheaper to produce.
The main advantages of SRAM are speed and energy consumption. They do not require constant updating, which makes them faster. The lack of update allows you to use much less energy than the DRAM. This makes SRAMs the preferred type of memory for portable battery-powered devices.
The evolution of classic RAM memory is irrepressible
The latest innovation in RAM memory is the NVRAM or Non-Volatile Random Access Memory, a random access memory (RAM) that is capable of store information and not lose it when removing the power supply Of the device.
Intel has decided to launch its own version of this innovative memory. 3D Xpoint is a non-volatile memory designed by Intel and Micron in 2015. However, it was not available in the market until relatively recently. The companies have decided to launch their non-volatile memory under the name of Optane (Intel) and QuantX (Micron).
What if we talk about hard drives?
The HDD they store the data on metal plates that are spinning all the time and, each time the computer wants to look for something, the device uses a "needle" to locate the position of that information. The HDDs are the ones that better price / capacity ratio offer, being the most interesting in this aspect.
The SSD, on the other hand, they are never moving, that's why they have "solid state" in their name. SSDs are more resistant to the passage of time, since the absence of moving parts minimizes the probability of mechanical failure.
To store the information they create blocks and, each time the computer wants to access them, the SDD only delivers it. In short, the device is much more efficient and faster than an HDD disc. The improvement of the SSD units are especially noticeable during system startup or when starting programs, although they sacrifice storage capacity.
The SSHD are hybrid discs that combine characteristics of both. SSHD drives also offer good performance, because they use their SSD part to speed up tasks, but without sacrificing storage capacity for similar speed.