RAM types and types. RAM. Working principle and functions

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What is it and what features does it have? And what types of this very random access memory There is? I will try to answer these and many other questions in this article.

The programs we run run in RAM, the processor resets the processed data, which is first copied to RAM and then saved to the hard drive.

The most important thing is to buy working memory

All memory types and their properties at a glance. This indicates how many hours it takes to process one memory module and get the next one. Memory is short-term memory that stores information about current programs. There are several types of memory, which are characterized by different transfer rates, memory clocks and operating voltages. The most important functions of memory are access time, data transfer rate, and storage capacity. If you use many complex programs, you should have memory with large capacity and data transfer speed.

What to consider when buying memory

Main memory is essentially characterized by three properties.

The peculiarity of RAM is that:

  1. It has fast speed of reading and writing data.
  2. The information in it is stored only as long as voltage is applied to the memory modules

That is, if you worked in any program: Word, Excel, photo editor, without saving this data and at that moment turned off the light, then you can say goodbye to this data or the changes made.


In addition, other purchasing criteria play a role, such as the scope of application. The shorter the access time, the faster read commands are processed and the more powerful the RAM. Baud Rate Baud rate indicates the amount of data transferred per second from memory. The higher the data transfer rate, the faster the data packet is processed by memory.

Frequently asked questions about memory

Memory capacity Memory capacity is especially important. Be sure to pay attention when purchasing. Most operating systems range in size from 4 to 32 gigabytes. The larger the memory, the more complex programs can run simultaneously. What is the difference between memory and internal memory?

Types of RAM

Today there are three main types of memory for PCs:

  1. DDR (400 MHz)
  2. DDR 2(533 MHz ,667 MHz, 800 MHz ,1066 MHz)
  3. DDR 3(1333 MHz ,1600MHz, 1800MHz,2000MHz ,2133MHz, 2200MHz, 2400MHz, 2600MHz, 2800MHz, 3000MHz)
  4. In 2014, DDR 4 appeared (2133MHz, 2400MHz and higher)

DDR is the oldest and slowest RAM you can still find on sale. Computers were assembled on its basis from 2003 to 2006.

Main memory is short-term memory that temporarily stores information about programs currently in use. After closing the program, this information is deleted. Only when the program is opened again do we turn on the memory again and save the information necessary to work with the program. On the other side, inner memory is permanent memory. This is where, for example, images, documents or videos that you want to access for a long time are stored.

Of course, the amount of memory required still depends on whether additional programs V background. How much memory does the main board support? But there are also motherboard manufacturers who have designed fewer memory slots to save space. These motherboards are usually quite cheap as well.

DDR 2 is faster memory. It is 2 times faster than DDR. On its basis, system units were assembled from the end of 2006 to 2011. But now it’s better to stop at DDR 3 - since one 2 GB DDR 2 stick costs exactly 2 times more than a DDR 3 stick of the same volume.

DDR 3 RAM was released in 2007. The performance increase relative to DDR 2 (800 MHz) was about 5-7%, not so much, but still nice!

However, when purchasing, one or another purchase criterion should be taken into account. All temporary storage devices have different speeds transmissions, operating voltages and timing. The latter are decisive for the functioning of working memory. These types of models operate very quickly and efficiently and require only low operating voltages of less than two volts. Working memory is the component that temporarily stores useful data for processing. Unlike hard drive, which could otherwise perform the same task, the data is processed much faster.

Another important point that is worth focusing on. This is the interchangeability of RAM. What I mean?


For example, if your motherboard supports DDR (400) type RAM, you cannot replace it with DDR2 or DDR3, DDR2 with DDR3 or DDR or DDR3 with DDR, DDR2. Because Although the RAM modules all have 240 contacts, they seem to consist of two halves and the distance at which this gap is located is individual for each type of memory, this is clearly visible in the photograph (the blue module is DDR3, the black DDR2)

Diagnosing possible problems with memory modules

However, the data remains on the hard drive when the power supply is removed, which is inconsistent with the main memory. This is called volatile memory. The maximum memory size and memory type depend on the motherboard. On motherboard There is a cache that is used as a buffer and constantly transfers data to the processor. It usually runs at the same processor speed, thereby preventing downtime. Nowadays, the cache is no longer a chip on the motherboard, but is built into the processor.

Which RAM manufacturer is better?

There is no answer to this question. Everyone decides for themselves which manufacturer’s RAM they should use. The only thing I want to advise is from personal experience. This means using memory from the same manufacturer with the same timings, voltage and supply voltage. When there is only one strip, it’s not scary, but if you buy a second one (with different timings and supply voltage) after installing it in system unit, get an unstable, freezing system. Therefore, if you have a little extra money, then it is better to spend it wisely and buy a set of two or four RAM sticks in the price lists of stores they are called KIT for example: KIT 2*2GB, KIT 2*4GB, KIT 4*2GB and so on .

The larger the cache, the larger the memory will be. Here are the most popular storage units in the roundup. At that time these modules had to be installed in pairs, each having 2 modules and in computer systems with built-in 386 and 486 processors even with 4 modules each. The contact pins were soldered to the contact surfaces and then connected to the motherboard.

These memory cells can be addressed directly by a memory address and can thus absorb information. Large memory locations are no longer addressed by a memory address, but by a memory word. In this case, data is stored through capacitors, which consist of storage elements. The individual capacitor is charged or discharged. About the switching transistor, this capacitor is selected, read, or described by new content. The contents of the memory, as usual with capacitors, are unstable and thus lose information in the absence of operating voltage.

What is special about this memory? The peculiarity of this RAM is that they work ideally in pairs because At the manufacturing plant they were tested in pairs and only then released for sale.

There are several common types of memory modules used in modern computers and computers released several years ago, but still working in homes and offices.
For many users, they can be distinguished by both appearance, and in terms of performance - this is a big problem.
In this article we will look at the main features of different memory modules.

The term "extended data transfer" is a method of maintaining the voltage in the capacitors that hold the memory state of a memory cell for longer. This results in an increase in the time interval in which data remains at the output and at the same time also reduces the frequency of required memory updates. While the data is still being read, the next address is already applied to the memory block. As read accesses follow each other, faster read access rates can be achieved.

RAM type DDR3 SDRAM

They existed in unilateral and bilateral agreements. The newly developed memory module has the great advantage that it orients its actions to the system clock. As a result, memory management can be significantly simplified and accelerated. Access is performed sequentially, so that the required recovery time between accesses is omitted. The pipeline process intensifies additional benefits speed.

FPM

FPM (Fast Page Mode) is a type of dynamic memory.
Its name corresponds to the principle of operation, since the module allows faster access to data that is on the same page as the data transferred during the previous cycle.
These modules were used on most 486-based computers and early systems with Pentium processors, approximately in 1995.

This results in a doubling of the clock speed. These modules can be seen in a different, larger design. The number of contacts increased from 168 to 184 contacts for desktop computers. The number of pins is set to 200. Here is the hook. Memory access is the same as for the bus. Since the traces are the same length, this causes the traces to form unusually in a zigzag course on the motherboard. Latency details are listed below.

The specified code number indicates the number of clock cycles that are required from the moment the command is sent for conversion. Because of the naming, this raises hopes for new bursts of performance - unfortunately wrong, as our tests show. This reduces power wastage, but also increases the latency between the request and delivery of the memory content. This allows the chips to operate internally for about a half hour. . The most important characteristics of main memory are size, access speed, and data transfer rate.

EDO

EDO (Extended Data Out) modules appeared in 1995 as a new type of memory for computers with Pentium processors.
This is a modified version of FPM.
Unlike its predecessors, EDO begins fetching the next block of memory at the same time it sends the previous block to the CPU.

Therefore, all data must be reloaded every time the system is rebooted. Memory modules are constantly being developed, and most modules are not compatible with each other. Due to the different contact strips, confusion is prevented so that it does not work.

Dual channel is a technique that allows two or more memory modules to run in parallel on the same processor. Due to the simultaneous transmission of data, the overall transfer speed increases significantly. Available only under 64-bit, usually more than 3 gigabytes of RAM.

SDRAM

SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM) is a type of random access memory that works so fast that it can be synchronized with the processor frequency, excluding standby modes.
The microcircuits are divided into two blocks of cells so that while accessing a bit in one block, preparations are in progress for accessing a bit in another block.
If the time to access the first piece of information was 60 ns, all subsequent intervals were reduced to 10 ns.
Since 1996, the majority Intel chipsets began to support this type of memory module, making it very popular until 2001.

Therefore, make sure that all components also support the new memory. With different cutouts you can't confuse them even though the pin number is identical. There is no doubling of prefetching, but the modules run at significantly higher clock speeds. Additionally, error correction has been significantly improved. For example, the following options are possible.

For example, for software editing graphics requires a lot of memory for efficient work. Additionally, your computer must have enough resources to edit videos. Additionally, installation is relatively simple. If you have a laptop, you can replace the new memory yourself with a little skill. Under the heading "Service" you will find detailed step by step instructions with descriptive photographs or. As a layman, you can make your main assistant faster.

SDRAM can operate at 133 MHz, which is almost three times faster than FPM and twice as fast as EDO.
Most computers with Pentium and Celeron processors released in 1999 used this type of memory.


DDR

DDR (Double Data Rate) was a development of SDRAM.
This type of memory module first appeared on the market in 2001.
The main difference between DDR and SDRAM is that instead of doubling the clock speed to speed things up, these modules transfer data twice per clock cycle.
Now this is the main memory standard, but it is already beginning to give way to DDR2.

Even if you haven't opened your computer before, installing new memory is a good start when upgrading and customizing your hardware. Other than a regular standard screwdriver, you don't need a special tool. For laptops, the right compartment can often be opened without tools.

Even if you bought the wrong module for any reason, you don't need to worry about damaging your computer. The modules are built in such a way that only the correct memory modules are provided in the slot. Just compare the shape of the contact strip of the new module with the memory used. If new memory locked, close the computer and reboot, the new memory will be automatically detected.


DDR2

DDR2 (Double Data Rate 2) is a newer variant of DDR that should theoretically be twice as fast.
DDR2 memory first appeared in 2003, and chipsets supporting it appeared in mid-2004.
This memory, like DDR, transfers two sets of data per clock cycle.
The main difference between DDR2 and DDR is the ability to operate at significantly higher clock speeds, thanks to improvements in design.
But the modified work scheme, which allows achieving high clock frequencies, at the same time increases delays when working with memory.

How to find out what RAM is in your computer

The computer only runs smoothly when there is enough memory, otherwise data must be constantly loaded into the main memory and others deleted. Therefore all important OS always available and do not require constant recharging. This way you can easily find the RAM you need. the site not only offers a huge selection of memory modules different generations well-known brand manufacturers at competitive prices, but also an extensive consulting service.

Select the product you want and place it in your virtual shopping cart. Usually you can always choose between different sizes, for example memory modules with 2 gigabytes or 4 gigabytes. Again, it's important to understand how much memory your system supports.


DDR3

DDR3 SDRAM (Double Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory, Third Generation) is a type of random access memory used in computer technology as RAM and video memory.
It replaced DDR2 SDRAM memory.

DDR3 has a 40% reduction in energy consumption compared to DDR2 modules, which is due to the lower (1.5 V, compared to 1.8 V for DDR2 and 2.5 V for DDR) power supply voltage of the memory cells.
Reducing the supply voltage is achieved through the use of a 90-nm (initially, later 65-, 50-, 40-nm) process technology in the production of microcircuits and the use of Dual-gate transistors (which helps reduce leakage currents).

Lower voltage ensures longer battery life

Memory modules are defined by their access speed and corresponding data transfer rate. Mechanically visible, individual memory modules are distinguished by different mounted cutouts in the row of plug contacts. It is dominated by almost all new chipsets. By operating two memory modules in parallel, data transfer performance can be further increased. B, two memory channels are operated in parallel by the memory controller. For this purpose, a second separate bus is used from the memory controller to the module.

DIMMs with DDR3 memory are not mechanically compatible with the same DDR2 memory modules (the key is located in a different location), so DDR2 cannot be installed in DDR3 slots (this is done to prevent the mistaken installation of some modules instead of others - these types of memory are not the same according to electrical parameters).


Parallel operation improves data transfer performance. The memory modules used must be of the same design and capacity. Higher packaged stores adapt to the lower ones. Ideally, however, always use modules with the same clock cycles. Memory slots designed for dual-channel operation are usually color-coded.

We only supply the same and identical chip modules as the memory kits. Identical chip modules are the safest method for successfully increasing performance through dual-channel operation. In quad channel mode, four parallel memory modules can be controlled by the memory controller in parallel with each other.

RAMBUS (RIMM)

RAMBUS (RIMM) is a type of memory that appeared on the market in 1999.
It is based on traditional DRAM but with a radically changed architecture.
The RAMBUS design makes memory access more intelligent, allowing pre-access to data while slightly offloading the CPU.
The main idea used in these memory modules is to receive data in small packets but at a very high clock speed.
For example, SDRAM can transfer 64 bits of information at 100 MHz, and RAMBUS can transfer 16 bits at 800 MHz.
These modules did not become successful as Intel had many problems with their implementation.
RDRAM modules appeared in the Sony Playstation 2 and Nintendo 64 game consoles.




Translation: Vladimir Volodin

Debut of a line of solid-state drives Intel Optane 900p with 3D XPoint memory

Intel Corporation officially introduced the first solid state drives for PCs and workstations, based on future-proof 3D XPoint memory.
The devices are part of the Optane 900p line, available in 280 and 480 GB versions, and their main advantages over competing solutions, as in the case of server counterparts, are high performance when working with small files along with a large recording resource.

Intel Optane 900p drives are available in both low-profile PCI-E expansion cards and 2.5-inch U.2 devices (280GB models only).
In both cases, the information transmission channel is four lines of the PCI Express 3.0 interface.
Maximum sequential read and write speeds are 2500 and 2000 MB/s, respectively, and performance when working with random 4-kilobyte blocks reaches 550 thousand IOPS when reading and 500 thousand operations when writing.

One of the advantages of the presented NVMe drives is their resource.
The TBW (total bytes written) parameter for the 480 GB model is 8760 TB, and for the 280 GB model it is 5110 TB.
Thus, these drives can be guaranteed to be rewritten over 18 thousand times.

As for the recommended cost, a 480 GB Intel Optane 900p drive will cost at least $600, and the 280 GB model was estimated by the chipmaker at $390.
All devices are covered by a five-year manufacturer's warranty.

New driver sets for GeForce 388.10 and Radeon Crimson ReLive 17.10.3

Wolfenstein: The release New Colossus prompted AMD and Nvidia to release fresh driver packages designed to solve problems associated with the unstable operation of the new shooter.
Both releases have beta status and do not contain new game optimizations.

Radeon Software Crimson ReLive Edition 17.10.3 driver package fixes freezes and crashes in Wolfenstein: The New Colossus and Destiny 2 on Radeon RX Vega series graphics cards.
Game optimizations for these projects are included in the “red” set of drivers, starting with previous version (17.10.2).

Meanwhile, Nvidia, in order not to force gamers to wait for the release of a Game Ready driver optimized specifically for the new shooter from MachineGames, has released a small “patch” in the form of GeForce 388.10 Hotfix.
The key task of the new release was to ensure stable operation of Wolfenstein: The New Colossus on Kepler generation video cards.
The release of a full Game Ready driver is scheduled for next week.

New malware for stealing money from ATMs

Kaspersky Lab has discovered a new malware, allowing attackers to steal money from ATMs.

The malware is reported to be called Cutlet Maker.
To carry out an attack on an ATM, a criminal needs to gain access to its USB port.
After this, you need to consistently use a number of software tools.

Cutlet Maker includes a special Stimulator module, which displays the number and denomination of banknotes in ATM cassettes.
This allows the attacker to initially select the cell containing the largest amount of money, rather than act “blindly”, sorting through the cassettes one after another.
Thus, the time to carry out an attack is reduced, and therefore the chances of catching criminals at the scene of a robbery are reduced.

The situation is made worse by the fact that the Cutlet Maker malware is offered to anyone on the underground Internet market.
The malware costs $5,000, and the kit includes step-by-step instructions.
Thus, even the most inexperienced attacker can commit a crime.

It is not yet clear who exactly is behind the development of Cutlet Maker.
But analysis shows that for the creators of the malware English language is not native.

Apple may block smartphones with non-original displays

With the release of iOS 11.0.3, Apple has the ability to block smartphones and tablets with a non-original display installed.

Consequently, now the Apple manufacturer can remotely control devices and track which components are used in them.

Apple commented on the update:

"The problem of the non-working touch input on the iPhone 6S, due to which the screens of some devices did not respond to touches due to the receipt of counterfeit components.
Replacing faulty displays with non-original ones may cause deterioration in image quality and operational problems.
Apple Certified repairs are performed by experts using original parts."

Previously from iPhone owners 6S received complaints about the defective display.
Some users did not have their gadgets repaired at certified service centers.
At some point, their touch input stopped working.
Apple then released an update that remotely fixed the problem.
The manufacturer also strongly recommended that the iPhone be repaired only at authorized service centers.

Thus, at some point, millions of iPhones, iPads and other Apple products may stop working if they have been repaired by third-party technicians.

Chrome for Windows now has an antivirus

Google has released new version desktop Chrome browser for Windows.
The update brings built-in capabilities to combat malicious code.

So, now Chrome detects whether the browser settings have been changed without the user’s knowledge and, if changed, offers to return the settings to their previous form.

The browser also has a kind of built-in antivirus.
It will offer to remove any suspicious or malicious program from your PC, including unnoticed installation.
To detect malware, the ESET engine is used.

The update has begun rolling out gradually to Chrome for Windows users.



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