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Random Access Memory

The term random access memory is more easily recognized by its acronym: RAM. It can be defined as the memory found in a set of computer chips that is used as a space to temporarily store your programs and files while they are in use. However, once the computer is switched off, the information stored in the RAM no longer exists there. As such, it acts as a fast, virtual and primary workspace for the computer, but one that needs a steady flow of power in order to maintain content.

This need for active use is what differentiates RAM from the other kinds of memory chips such as PROM or ROM. A trait they do share is the capacity to directly access the content stored in any of the bytes in the chips, without having to go through the bytes preceding or following the desired ones (unlike other memory devices that are sequential and fixed in nature such as cassette tapes). RAM data is available in any order. This flexibility is what constitutes the word “random” in the term random access memory.

Web Resources On Random Access Memory

How Stuff Works: Random Access Memory
Wikipedia: RAM

Book Resources On Random Access Memory

How Computers Work by White & Downs
Absolute Beginner's Guide to Computer Basics by Michael Miller

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