What does RAM give? Why do you need RAM in your computer? RAM in a smartphone

Why do you need RAM in your computer?

To explain literally on the fingers what the RAM in a computer gives, let us consider typing as an example. Suppose you are typing any text in a new Word file (term paper or diploma, for example), until you clicked the "save" button, the file with the text as such is not available anywhere on the Hard disk. But somewhere it has to hang in the system ?! At this moment, it becomes a little clearer why you need RAM - it is in the RAM that information about the document you are typing hangs, and it will hang exactly until the working session of the computer ends or until you save the document on the Hard disk.

Computer game lovers, designers and other professionals, those associated with large-scale graphics and video are well aware of how important the amount of "RAM" is. When any game or program just hangs in the computer, RAM is not required for it, but as soon as you start the program, it automatically starts to "devour" the RAM of your machine. So for the standard one requires an incredible amount of RAM in order for it to work more or less efficiently.

What does the computer's RAM depend on?

Random access memory, or rather its speed, absolutely depends on the frequency of its bus, and that, in turn, on the type of memory. It should be noted that if the "motherboard" is designed to use only one type of memory, installing another RAM on it is not feasible.

Working memory can be compared to the human spinal cord. It provides the speed of operation of the periphery and the exchange of information

Random access memory (RAM) has the English name RAM (Random Access Memory). Also, this node can be called "RAM", memory. According to its technical characteristics, this device is a volatile component of general computer memory, in which temporary data is stored in the form of machine code or a program.

Additionally, the PC's RAM contains temporary input, output or intermediate data, which are in the process of being processed by the central processor.

The physical implementation of this type of memory is presented in the form of strips, which contain a set of microcircuits and conductive tracks. It is necessary to install RAM in special slots located on the computer motherboard. They come in a variety of colors, usually blue, yellow, or green. Each strip in the area of the pins (contacts) has a slot that aligns with a similar one in the socket. There are locking latches on the sides.

The bar fits into special slots with latches

FOR YOUR INFORMATION:

Nonvolatile memory refers to an I / O device that does not require a constant power supply to operate. Volatile memory is an area where information is stored on a computer that requires a power source to function.

Since RAM belongs to the volatile types of input / output devices, this leaves an imprint on the peculiarities of its operation. Unlike ROM (read-only memory), on which the necessary information is stored, all data contained in RAM are reset to zero after the user turns off the PC.

Another point for which RAM is needed on a computer is performance improvement. Unlike the central processor, which has a high speed of sending and receiving data, a hard drive or peripheral devices do not have such characteristics.

When there is a need to exchange data between the internal parts of the PC, RAM plays the role of a buffer, where processes are cached to speed up access to them. Programs that "flush" the cache of temporary information into RAM work in a similar way, so as not to load the CPU in the future, but to receive the necessary data from RAM.

Memory is needed to improve PC performance

Thus, the availability of random access memory affects the operation of the system, allowing to reduce the time of data exchange between software and functional parts of the PC (processor, north and south bridges, input / output devices).

FOR YOUR INFORMATION:

The presence of RAM is typical not only for a stationary PC. This is an important part of any electronic device (tablet, laptop, smartphone or even smart TV).

RAM characteristics

To understand what RAM is for a laptop or desktop computer, you need to know important parameters that determine the choice - these are the characteristics of RAM.

This includes not only performance or price, but also parameters such as volume, frequency of the computing processor, timings.

1 GB of RAM: what is it or volume characteristics

Very often, when reading the technical characteristics of the device, in particular, the computer, the buyer comes across the following text: RAM - 2GB. What is it, and what effect does the amount of RAM have on the operation of a PC.

To understand the importance of the indicator in the question of what is RAM and to describe the dependence of the speed of a PC on the volume, a simple example can be given. While the user is working on a computer, a significant amount of data is in the process of constantly moving from ROM to RAM to speed up the exchange and increase the speed of information processing by the computer. The RAM contains a cache of all open applications. At this point, the amount of memory does not affect the work in any way.

You can check the amount of RAM in the system information

The problem can begin when the maximum amount of data that can be stored in RAM is exceeded. In this case, older information is moved to a specially designated space on the disk, which is called the paging file.

The result is a slowdown in work, since the speed of data exchange between the hard disk and the processor is much lower than RAM can guarantee. Therefore, one conclusion suggests itself: the amount of RAM should exceed the maximum total consumption of computer resources by open applications, including system applications.

The amount of modern RAM for PCs is measured in gigabytes (GB). The recommended amounts of RAM are as follows:

Up to 2 GB will be enough for normal operation of an office computer that uses text editors.
2 to 4 GB is the normal size for a home PC that will be used for various purposes.
Over 4 GB is the amount required for modern games. When assembling a gaming computer, experts advise not to save on volume and install more bars, so to speak "for the future."

The gaming computer will require the maximum amount of RAM supported

IMPORTANT!

When installing a 32-bit version of the operating system on a PC, it is not recommended to install more than 4 GB of RAM, since this is not supported by the OS. If you plan to use a larger volume, then you should take care of purchasing the 64-bit version of the program.

Frequency

Another important characteristic of RAM in a computer is the frequency of operation. This parameter means the width of the channel that is used for exchange between the motherboard, processor and memory itself. Here the principle “more is better” applies. But it should be borne in mind that the frequency response of the memory must correspond to that of the motherboard. For example, if the RAM is declared to work at 1600 MHz and there is only 1066 MHz support in the motherboard bus, the actual value of the RAM will be the aforementioned 1066 MHz.

Also, when mentioning the memory frequency, we may not be talking about the clock, but about the transfer rate. This indicator, which is correctly referred to as the data transfer rate, is the number of operations, the result of which is the exchange of data performed over a period of time in one second. The unit of measurement is gigatransfer or megatransfers (GT / s or MT / s). The specifications are given in the memory description.

Memory frequency affects the speed of its work

In terms of clock speed, it is half of the indicated double data rate. This indicator is hidden under the letter index DDR or Double Date Rate.

A list of real indicators that are most often found in RAM manufacturers is given in the table:

Memory type	Possible operating speeds, MHz	Clock, MHz
DDR	200/266/333/400	100/133/166/200
DDR2	400/533/667/800/1066	200/266/333/400/533
DDR3	800/1066/1333/1600/1800/2000/2133/2200/2400	400/533/667/800/1800/1000/1066/1100/1200
DDR4	2133/2400/2666/2800/3000/3200/3333	1066/1200/1333/1400/1500/1600/1666

IMPORTANT!

You should pay attention to the maximum clock rate that the motherboard supports. If two bars are installed, one of which operates at a higher clock cycle, then the actual frequency parameter determines the lowest characteristics of the RAM.

Timing

Timing means the ability to delay memory. There is such a parameter as access time or CAS Latency. Its indicator determines the number of clock cycles created by the memory module in the procedure for delaying the return of information, a request for which comes from the CPU. If the timing index of 9 includes nine passes, then, for example, the number 7 would mean only seven clock cycles.

With equal indicators of the volume and speed of information transfer, RAM with a timing of 7 cycles works faster. This is called latency.

Timings can be viewed in specialized programs such as AIDA64

Conclusion: The lower the timing, the faster the RAM is working.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION:

Very often the manufacturer does not set the maximum memory frequency in order to maintain optimal timing performance. With an increase in the clock cycle, the working timing automatically increases, which does not have the best effect on the performance of the module.

How to find out the amount of RAM installed on your computer

In order to know exactly the amount of RAM installed on a computer, there are several ways. A similar procedure may be required to know how to increase RAM when there is not enough RAM.

Volume viewing options (in order of complication):

"AIDA64" - a program that provides comprehensive information about the computer and system

Types of random access memory on a computer

Modern computer technologies offer users only two types of memory: statistical and dynamic

Statistical variety

This type is called "SRAM". When it is created, semiconductor triggers are used, which leads to a significant acceleration of the operating speed. But the costly and complex manufacturing technology affects the cost. Also, this variety is distinguished by its large size, therefore it is not used in home PCs, but is more used in industrial servers.

Dynamic variety

This type is called "DRAM" and is used in most modern PCs or laptops. This type is based on capacitors, which provides increased data density and an acceptable cost. Disadvantages stem from design features. An increase in the capacitance of a capacitor leads to its rapid self-discharge. Therefore, constant replenishment is required, due to the regeneration process. This slows down the operation of the RAM, so manufacturers use various schemes to reduce the latency.

Modern memory is called "DDR" or "DRAM"

DRAM is also divided by generation or creation time. These types differ in clock frequency and baud rate. There are 4 generations of RAM in total:

DDR2.
DDR3.
DDR4.

Additionally, there is a division into RAM for stationary (desktop) PCs and laptops. Very often, on the stickers on the back of a laptop or netbook, you can see an indication of the type of SO DIMM RAM. What's this? This is exactly the same RAM, only smaller.

Notebooks use SO DIMM memory

For comparison, the usual dimensions of the third generation DRAM are 133.35 mm in length. And the SO DIMM will be 67.6 mm long. The number of pins (contacts for connection) also differs.

The main differences between standard DRAM and SO DIMM are summarized in the table:

FOR YOUR INFORMATION:

The first computers installed SIPP memory modules, which are a common printed circuit board with flexible contacts. They often broke during installation. SIPP was replaced by SIMM modules, which were already more reminiscent of modern planks.

Sometimes on the sites of online stores, mainly of Chinese origin, you can find RAM for sale only for AMD. What is it and in fact such a line will work only on the architecture from this manufacturer?

There are modules that are designed only to work on AMD boards, which is caused by the peculiarities of the architecture

In reality, this turns out to be true. Such fakes do not comply with international JEDEC standards. Because AMD engineers created their own memory architecture using 11-bit columns and 16Kb page size. All other manufacturers use a 10 by 8. This translates into better performance as the memory controller lasts longer on a particular page.

How to increase RAM on your computer

When there is a slowdown in the work of the PC, the user involuntarily thinks about the question of how to increase the RAM. There are several ways to increase the amount of RAM and improve the performance of your PC.

It is the speed of work that is the main reason for which the computer's RAM is increased.

There are three main ways to achieve an increase in memory performance:

Purchase of new planks... Beforehand, in order to avoid problems, it is recommended to remove the old strip and look at all the characteristics on the sticker. Also, it will not be superfluous to find out what memory frequency is supported by the motherboard. This is one of the factors that affects RAM.

It will not be superfluous to calculate the number of slots for placing memory, since if there is an insufficient amount, it will not work to increase without removing old modules. When installing, line up the notches on the board and fix the retaining clips on the sides of the slot.

Flash drive can take advantage of ReadyBoost technology to expand memory

Using a USB storage device... Microsoft has implemented ReadyBoost technology in its systems. The principle of operation is to save a special file to an external medium, where the most frequently used processes are cached. A solid-state drive is faster because it doesn’t waste time looking for the information you need on the sectors of the hard drive.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION:

The minimum flash drive requirements for ReadyBoost include at least 256 MB, 1.75 MB / s write, and 2.5 MB / s read.

Change BIOS settings. This is the way for people who are well versed in system settings. Correct change of indicators through BIOS can lead to an increase in memory performance by 10%. The overclocking process itself consists in changing the timings.

In BIOS, you can change the timings, which will lead to acceleration of the RAM

To overclock the RAM, go to the BIOS (Del or F2 button, depending on the PC model). Next, you need to go to the Video Ram or Shared Memory tab. There is a DRAM Read Timing tab. After selecting the manual mode, the user will be able to change the timings. It should be noted that all operations are performed at your own peril and risk. A deep knowledge of the features of microprocessor technology is required.

ROM - what is it

In addition to RAM, the computer has a ROM or read-only memory. To understand what RAM and ROM are in a computer, you need to list the sources of information storage that are permanent:

integrated circuits. An example is a BIOS that is powered by its own battery;
Winchester;
removable storage;
disks;

ROM means controllers, BIOS, chipsets, as well as drives

Also, the number of ROMs in a computer includes microcircuits (north and south bridge), which contain the algorithms for the operation of the entire system. The Northbridge is responsible for the correct operation of the processor and video accelerator. The south bridge is a controller that is embedded on the motherboard and is responsible for I / O processes.

The peculiarity of this type of storage device is its non-volatility. Information is saved even when the power is off.

RAM cleaning

The appearance of lags during the operation of the computer may indicate an overflow of RAM. In this case, it will need to be cleaned. The most drastic method is to restart the PC, but in this case all windows will be automatically closed and important information may be lost if the user does not save.

A more gentle way is to use the task manager. It is invoked by the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Alt + Del. In the window that opens, the user will see the running processes with an indication of the amount of memory used. Right-click on the selected process to remove the task and unload it from memory.

Launching the task manager allows you to track memory usage by processes

Another way to relieve the load on RAM is to regulate the processes that are at startup. All unimportant programs for updating installed software or other unused tasks can be safely disabled.

You can qualitatively clean the RAM with the help of special utilities. Their disadvantage is the deletion of the necessary tasks, which can lead to a malfunction.

Best manufacturers and cost

To know which RAM is better to buy, you should first familiarize yourself with the best manufacturers and select the models that are recognized as the most optimal from the point of view of users.

Corsair. An American company that specializes not only in the production of memory, but also many other computer accessories. One of the best models is the Corsair CMK16GX4M2A2400C14. This is a DDR4 module with a low heatsink profile, but not the lowest price (14,000 rubles).
Corsair CMK16GX4M2A2400C14
Kingston. Another American company specializing in the production of storage devices. In addition to conventional DRAMs, the pipeline produces SSD drives and flash memory. The most popular models include the Kingston HX324C11SRK2 / 16. The module, which is sold at a price of 11 thousand rubles, is distinguished by increased clock frequencies and stylish design.
Kingston HX324C11SRK2 / 16
Patriot. The company was founded in 1985. The main task of creating the brand was the development of memory modules for computer enthusiasts. Each bar features improved timing, faster data transfer rates and overclocking capabilities. One of the popular models is the Patriot Viper 4 (PV416G340C6K), which costs 13,500 rubles. Its advantages are high overclocking potential, low heat generation and low bar height.
Muskin. An American company that has gained fame for its power supplies. Also in the brand's products there is a line of memory models. The best choice is Mushkin Enhanced Redline (994206F). This memory offers overclocking up to 3280 MHz and is highly reliable. The cost starts from 7 400 rubles.
G.Skill. A brand originally from Taiwan with history dating back to 1989. The main specialization of the company is the production of random access memory. One of the best models is the G.SKill Trident Z 32GB Kit DDR4-3200 CL14 (F4-3200C14D-32GTZR). 32GB DDR4 memory for high clock rates without requiring additional voltage adjustments during overclocking. The downside is the prohibitive cost, which is 33 thousand rubles.
G.SKill Trident Z

Working memory is an amazing type of memory that allows you to bring your plans to life, process information while reading, remember what you hear and analyze.

This is a working memory that we use constantly when processing any information. If an adult has difficulty retaining up to 10 units of information in his memory, then he is faced with the following difficulties:

- constantly gets confused while reading;

- quickly forgets what he has read;

- loses thought while reading or listening to a lecture;

- constantly forced to write everything down;

- cannot remember what is needed quickly and accurately in a short time;

- learns slowly;

- is lost in the amount of information;

- hard to organize what he read.

RAM is unique. The more units of information you can hold in your memory, the more opportunities open up before you.

Can RAM be developed? Yes. Not only is it possible, but even necessary.

Here are some exercises that I love to do with my students.

1. Verbal counting

You've probably noticed that intelligence websites often offer verbal counting assignments. What for? Because this is the easiest way to train your RAM.

First you solve light examples on addition and subtraction within 100, then take 1000, and then go to 10,000.

Next stage - multiplication and division... You can start by repeating the multiplication table, then master the multiplication of two-digit identical numbers, for example, 11 by 11, 12 by 12, etc. Gradually, you will be able to divide not only two-digit numbers, but also three-digit numbers.

Various mental counting techniques can be found on the Internet. You will discover a lot of new, exciting and interesting things in the world of numbers, and most importantly, you will be able to pass on knowledge to your children.

2. Tables for finding numbers 1–90, 1–100, 1–250

This is a challenging but very effective exercise. Especially when you are trying to search for numbers in tens. Thus, the search speed increases, and in memory you constantly keep numbers from one ten.

3. Sudoku

This is a great challenge for all ages. At the first stage, you need to learn how to solve simple Sudoku (4 by 4, 6 by 6), and then move on to more complex (8 by 8, 9 by 9, etc.).

Gradually, you will learn how to solve very difficult Sudoku in different variations. Let me remind you that Sudoku replaces several simulators at once, this is its important feature.

4. Puzzles

This is my favorite versatile machine. First, you learn to collect puzzles from 24, 36, 54 pieces as quickly as possible. And then go to the big ones - 80, 120, 160, 250.

If you love collecting large paintings, try doing it for a while. A 500-piece jigsaw puzzle can be completed in 4 hours. This is my personal best.

A 24-piece jigsaw puzzle is usually completed by my students in 3 minutes. This is a very good result. One second grader was able to overcome this barrier and completed such a puzzle in 1 minute.

Particular results should be noted in children who play sports. For example, the boy in question has been swimming since birth.

Also, puzzles can be laid out in mobile applications. Some kids love them very much. One student of mine was able to put together a puzzle of 160 pieces in 1 minute and 30 seconds.

5. Sports

Sport trains not only the physical condition of the body, but also the capabilities of the intellect. And the record of the boy-swimmer, which I described above, is a good confirmation of this.

The better your reaction speed, the faster you learn new things. This is the secret of the athletes. They easily learn new skills.

6. Drawing with two hands

Drawing with both hands simultaneously not only trains the operative memory well, but also develops interhemispheric connections. The well-coordinated work of the two hemispheres gives an advantage in hours of intellectual work. The person gets tired less and can do more.

7. Writing with the other hand

Exercises for training writing with the other hand are based on the same principle. If you are right-handed, learn to write with your left hand, if you are left-handed, with your right.

What for? This is not only going beyond the usual (that is, comfort zones) and developing creativity, but also activating the sleeping reserve of your brain.

8. TRIZ

TRIZ is non-standard tasks that develop the ability to find solutions in difficult situations. There are tasks of different difficulty levels. Start with the easiest ones - you'll love it!

I wish you good luck with your training!

From the editorial board

Memory and mindfulness exercises are good for developing intelligence, but they do not guarantee you the ability to think clearly and clearly, easily focusing on the necessary information and overshadowing everything unnecessary. Such a skill can be developed by the ancient practices that the psychologist talks about. Ilya Shabshin: .

Perhaps, having set a goal for yourself to devote time to memory training every day, you will encounter internal resistance: why is this necessary, it still does not work, etc. There will be plenty of mental excuses. But do not rush to get upset - this is normal! Coach Kira Weber explains why our brains resist learning:.

Finding time for smart workouts requires learning how to plan your day with the right priorities. Life-technologist Ekaterina Kostina shares tips on how to plan the perfect day in accordance with your values and goals:.

Many users know what RAM is and what it is for. Almost all modern devices and gadgets are endowed with RAM (random access memory). So what does this kind of memory give to a computer or laptop? Let's try to understand the issue.

What's this?

The RAM of a laptop or PC is an important part of the system of the device, on which the speed of operation of various applications depends. Why do you need RAM in your computer? It stores instructions and temporary data that are needed by the computer's processor to perform certain operations. There are many types of random access memory, each of which serves a different purpose. The "RAM" looks like an elongated green chip. There is a compartment in the system unit or under the back cover of the laptop where it is located. Even a user who is not versed in technology can install it himself.

The purpose

What does RAM give? RAM or RAM (Random Access Memory) is a volatile and relatively fast PC memory that has random access. It carries out all sorts of operations to exchange information between devices. Random access memory. If you turn off the power, the data contained in it will be erased. RAM stores streams of information that the processor needs to process. The devices contact the RAM via the system bus, exchange with it via the cache. Random access RAM means that the memory accesses the desired block directly when needed.

At the same time, the access speed does not change. RAM is different from volatile, it rarely fails. If it is damaged, then this affects the entire system, negatively affects the operation of some PC devices. RAM comes as a separate module or block of a device or chip. If the element in question was not used in modern gadgets, then all operations would be slow. What does the addition of RAM give? It allows you to reduce processing time, and applications will run and launch twice as fast.

Type and volume

What does RAM give? It helps your computer run faster. To increase the capabilities of the device, it is necessary to know and take into account the characteristics of this element. For example, if the RAM is 8 GB, this is its size. It is an integral part of any module in the system. The performance of a computer or laptop depends on the total amount of RAM, the more installed, the better for the user.

How to correctly determine how much memory is installed on a PC? This can be done in different ways. If the computer is running Windows 7, then you need to do the following: click "Start", then right-click on "Computer" - "Properties". A window will appear, which will contain information about the volume. There you can also see information about the processor, type of system. In the same way, you should find out the amount of RAM (8 GB, 16 GB, 32 GB, etc.) in Windows XP.

If the user needs to know information about the module and other characteristics, it is necessary to install a special program to determine the parameters of the PC. Experts also advise using S & M - a diagnostic application about the state of the computer.

Peculiarities

Modern laptop and computer users know what RAM gives. She is responsible for performance - how quickly the incoming command will be executed and processed by the PC. To determine the frequency of a specific module, you can simply look at the sticker with numbers and letters, for example: DDR3 - 1600 PC3 - 12800 CL9 ECC REG.

In addition, you can use special programs that allow you to determine the characteristics of the RAM. What does this cipher mean?

DDR3 is the most common type of RAM generation.
1600 is the operating frequency of the memory, which is measured in MHz.
PC3 - 12800 - a parameter indicating the throughput, that is, the amount of information processed in 1 second.
C19 - information about the timing of the RAM, measured in milliseconds. The lower the score, the better.
ECC - memory is endowed with parity. The module has a special controller that corrects errors that occur during operation.

Therefore, if you want to increase the RAM, then take these parameters into account, otherwise there is a great risk of incompatibility between the device and RAM.

RAM for laptop

Many modern netbooks, laptops and tablets use DDR RAM in the SODIMM form factor. The difference between these modules from others is their appearance. Each generation of RAM has its own characteristics. They are related to the technological process. So, a module for a laptop has a different number of contacts, in contrast to the first generation DDR. Some laptop users may encounter an unpleasant problem: the OS "slows down", works inconsistently. This happens if several applications are loaded at the same time. Then you will need to clear the RAM.

What can a user do? Close all applications, restart the device. In addition, you can use programs that clean up your RAM. All of these methods have pros and cons. If they do not solve the problem, it is worth contacting the service center for help.

How to install?

We figured out what the RAM gives, now let's talk about how to install it in a computer or laptop:

First, turn off the device, wait five minutes.
We open the system unit.
There should be free slots on the motherboard - install RAM there. Each board has its own DDR generation.

What does an increase in RAM give? The computer will work faster, but you need to increase it deliberately. First, find out which motherboard is installed on your device, also focus on the model and brand of laptop. All this will make it clear how much RAM to add and whether it needs to be done. To increase memory, you need to do the following:

determine the model of the motherboard or laptop;
decide on the amount of RAM and the module;
check compatibility with the motherboard;
purchase the module.

The memory is installed simply. To do this, you need to know in general terms what a PC or laptop consists of, the functionality of all its parts.