Random Access Memory (RAM) or simply Memory, is a type of primary storage. RAM is close to the CPU and used to store data needed for the actively running processes.
Primary storage is relatively small compared to secondary storage and more expensive. It’s also volatile. Data in volatile memory is lost when power is switched off. That’s why it’s important to “save” our work frequently. When we hit “Save”, the data gets written to the Secondary storage which is non-volatile – data is accessible for later use; not lost when the computer powers off.
More RAM please – Random Access Memory
RAM is a Primary Storage for data used by the CPU when it’s active and processing. The control unit of the CPU loads data needed by it from the secondary storage into the primary storage.
RAM Facts
- It is also known as Main memory or simply memory. You see above a RAM or a memory stick.
- It goes into the RAM slot on the motherboard.
- RAM capacity these days range anywhere from 2 GB to 24 GB.
- The lower the RAM, the limited is the number of applications you can work on.
- If you increase the RAM size, it will have more room to store intermediary data as the CPU processes large and complex applications like a video game.
The ideal RAM requirement depends on how you use your computer. If you have a lot of gaming and video application usage, you might need a RAM of at least 24 GB. The average RAM size these days is 4 – 8 GB.
Activity
How much memory does your computer have?
Do you know the RAM size of your machine? Let’s find out
If you have a Windows machine, follow these steps
- Click the START icon on the bottom left.
- Type Control Panel in the Search bar and click on the Control Panel.
- Click the System tab.
- Look for the Installed Memory (RAM) information.
- What’s the number you see?
Example of the System Information of a Windows machine
If you have a lot of programs running on a low memory computer, you may see this message pop up.
