Almost every device with computing power needs RAM. Take a look at your favorite device (e.g. smartphones, tablets, desktops, laptops, graphing calculators, HDTVs, handheld gaming systems, etc.) and you should find some information about RAM. While all RAM serves essentially the same purpose, there are a few different types that are commonly used today:
How bad is it to mix memory?
RAM stands for Random Access Memory and gives computers the virtual space they need to manage information and solve problems. You can think of it as a piece of reusable scrap paper that you would use with a pencil to jot down notes, numbers, or drawings. When you run out of space on the paper, you simply make more by erasing what you no longer need; RAM behaves in a similar way when it needs more space to process temporary information (i.e., running software/programs). Larger pieces of paper allow you to write down more (and larger) ideas at once before having to erase them; more RAM in computers has a similar effect.
RAM comes in a variety of forms (i.e., the way it physically connects or interfaces with computer systems), capacities (measured in MB or GB), speeds (measured in MHz or GHz), and architectures. These and other aspects are important to consider when upgrading systems with RAM, since computer systems (e.g., hardware, motherboards) must adhere to strict compatibility guidelines. For example:
One of the two basic types of memory (the other being DRAM), SRAM requires a constant supply of power to function. Because of the continuous power, SRAM does not need to be 'refreshed' to remember the stored data. This is why SRAM is called 'static': no change or action (e.g., refreshing) is required to keep data intact. However, SRAM is a volatile memory, meaning that all stored data is lost as soon as the power is turned off.
