RAM vs ROM Advantages, Disadvantages, Differences RAM stands for Random Access Memory and ROM stands for Read Only Memory. RAM is the memory that stores the data you are currently working with, but it is volatile, meaning that as soon as it loses power, the data disappears. ROM represents permanent memory. It is non-volatile, so when it loses power, the data remains.
Memory is an important part of the computer that is responsible for storing data and information on a temporary or permanent basis. Memory is divided into two parts.
- Primary Memory
- Secondary Memory
Primary Memory
Primary memory is a type of memory that is accessed directly through the pre processor. It is basically used to store the data on which the computer is currently working. It has less storage than secondary memory. Primary memory is basically of two types.
- RAM (Random Access Memory)
- ROM (Read Only Memory)
RAM (Random Access Memory)
RAM consists of cells that are arranged in a grid-like structure. Each cell stores a single bit of data in the form of 0 or 1. These cells are arranged in rows and columns. In which, each row and column has an address which the CPU uses to access the specific data stored in the RAM. RAM is divided into two parts – DRAM (dynamic RAM) and SRAM (static RAM). DRAM is the most common part of RAM, which is used more in modern computers. And moreover, they are cheaper to manufacture but they need to be refreshed to maintain the integrity of the data. However, SRAM is faster and more expensive than DRAM.
- DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)
- SRAM (Static Random Access Memory)
Characteristics of RAM
- Volatile
- Speed
- Read and Write Operations
- Storage Capacity
- temporary storage
Advantages of RAM (Random Access Memory)
- RAM provides quick access times, allowing the computer‘s CPU to access and change data quickly. This speed stimulates the system’s overall responsiveness and performance.
- RAM is not a static form of memory that requires constant power to retain data. Data can be quickly edited and updated in real time, enabling quick and efficient read and write operations.
- RAM is used by a computer while it is running as temporary storage for data and program instructions. This transient character allows for flexibility and adaptability.
- RAM makes it easy for a computer to execute multiple programs simultaneously.
- Increasing RAM in most computer systems is fairly straightforward. The system’s memory capacity can be increased by adding more RAM modules.
Disadvantages of RAM
- Limited Capacity
- Volatility
- Cost
ROM (Read Only Memory)
The full form of ROM is Read Only Memory, which means memory for reading only. ROM has the property that the stored data does not disappear even if the power is turned off. It is non-volatile memory, which means that it stores data permanently and cannot be easily modified or overwritten. ROM works on firmware or pre-programmed instructions that are executed when the computer boots up and initializes the hardware components.
- PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory)
- EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory)
- EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory)
Characteristics of ROM
- Non-Volatile
- Stability
- Read- only Access
- Storage Capacity
Advantages of ROM (Read Only Memory)
- ROM keeps its stored data safe even when the power is turned off. It is used to store critical firmware and instructions that should not be changed or lost due to this property.
- The information stored in ROM remains intact and unaffected by unintentional changes or software errors, thereby maintaining the integrity of critical instructions and firmware.
- ROM provides long-term storage for critical information, boot instructions, and firmware. It guarantees that software elements necessary for system functionality are continuously accessible.
- ROM can help increase the security of the system. It is very difficult for hostile attacks or software vulnerabilities to attack the system because the data in ROM is read-only and cannot be changed. It also prevents unauthorized modification or manipulation of critical program components.
Disadvantages of ROM
- Limited Flexibility
- Limited Capacity
- Cost
RAM vs ROM/ Difference Between RAM & ROM
| RAM | ROM |
| RAM is a temporary memory of the computer. | ROM is the permanent memory of the computer. |
| RAM is a read write Memory. that data can be written and read. | ROM is a read only memory. That data can only be read. |
| ROM is a volatile memory as it temporarily stores the Files as long as the computer is on and working. | ROM is a non-volatile memory as it permanently stores the files even when the power is turned off, such as game cartridge and BIOS program stored in the memory of a computer, etc. |
| The storage capacity of RAM ranges from 1 GB to 256 GB. | The storage capacity of ROM ranges from 4 MB to 8 MB. |
| The size of RAM is larger than ROM. It comes in two different sizes for use in desktop computers and laptops. A desktop RAM is about 5.5 inches long and 1 inch wide. However, the length of laptop RAM is half the length of desktop RAM. | Its size varies from less than an inch in length to several inches in length and width, depending on their use. The capacity of ROM is less than RAM |
| Data stored in RAM can be retrieved and changed. | We can only read the data stored in ROM. No changes can be made to it. |
| The speed of RAM is faster than ROM because it is a high-speed memory. | This memory is slower than the speed of RAM. |
| The data stored in RAM is used in real time to run the computer through the CPU. | Data stored in ROM is used by the CPU only when it is transferred to RAM. |
| It temporarily stores files and data that the CPU needs to process the current instructions or task. | It stores the BIOS program on the computer’s motherboard, which is needed to bootstrap the computer. |
| Examples: your phone, your tablet, your computer, your TV, your car, your cable box, your game machine etc. | Examples: Latest Generation of smartphones. |
| Stored data can be accessed easily. | Accessing the data stored in it is not as simple as compared to ROM. |
| RAM is costlier than ROM. | ROM is cheaper than RAM. |
| Types of RAM:- 1. DRAM 2. SRAM |
Types of ROM:- 1. PROM 2. EPROM 3. EEPROM |
Secondary Memory
Secondary memory is a type of memory that is used to store data and information permanently. It has the capacity to store more data than primary memory. Secondary memory cannot be accessed directly from the CPU. There are basically four types of secondary memory.
- Hard Disk (HD)
- Floppy Disk (FD)
- Compact Disk (CD)
- Digital Versatile Disk (DVD)
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