Memory Components.

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• Random access memory (RAM) is the place in a computer where the OS, application programs, and data in current use are kept so that they can be quickly reached by the processor.
• RAM is considered temporary, or volatile memory.
• The contents of RAM are lost when the computer power is turned off.
• The more RAM a computer has, the more capacity the computer has to hold and process large programs and files.
• There are two classes of RAM that are commonly used today. These are Static RAM (SRAM) and Dynamic RAM (DRAM).

1. SRAM is relatively more expensive, but it is fast and holds data when the power is turned off for a brief period of time. This is useful in such circumstances as an unexpected loss of power. It is used for cache memory.
2. DRAM is inexpensive and somewhat slow, and requires an uninterrupted power supply to maintain the data. DRAM stores data in tiny capacitor that must be refreshed to maintain the data. Once the power is turned off, the data is lost.

• A SIMM plugs into the motherboard with a 72-pin or 30-pin connector.
• The pins connect to the system bus, creating an electronic path through which memory data can flow to and from other system components.

• A DIMM plugs into the system's memory bank using a 168-pin connector.
• The pins establish a connection with the system bus, creating an electronic path through which data can flow between the memory chip and other system components.

• Cache is a specialized form of computer chip or firmware that is designed to enhance memory performance.
• Cache memory stores frequently used information and transfers it to the processor faster than RAM. Most computers have two separate memory cache levels:

1. L1 cache is located on the CPU
2. L2 cache is located between the CPU and DRAM
3. Some systems use COASt modules. These modules provide cache memory on many Pentium-based systems.
4. The COASt module is noted for its reliability and speed because it uses the pipeline-burst cache, which is significantly faster than an SRAM cache.
5. Some systems offer both SRAM sockets and a COASt module socket.
6. The COASt module essentially resembles a SIMM, except that it is taller and has a different connector.