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Differentiate between RAM and ROM
RAM
ROM
Answers
There is one major difference between a ROM (read-only memory) and a RAM (random-access memory) chip: ROM can hold data without power and RAM cannot. Essentially, ROM is meant for permanent storage, and RAM is for temporary storage.
Alternate explanation
A ROM chip is a non-volatile storage medium, which means it does not require a constant source of power to retain the information stored on it. By contrast, a RAM chip is volatile, which means it loses any information it is holding when the power is turned off.
Other differences between a ROM and a RAM
- A ROM chip is used primarily in the start up process of a computer, whereas a RAM chip is used in the normal operations of a computer once the operating system is loaded.
- A RAM chip can store multiple GB (gigabytes) of data, ranging from 1 to 256 GB per chip. A ROM chip stores several MB (megabytes) of data, usually 4 MB or 8 MB per chip.
Computer ROM
A good example of ROM is the computer BIOS, which is a PROM chip that stores the programming needed to begin the initial computer startup process. Using a non-volatile storage medium is the only way to begin this process for computers and other devices. ROM chips were also used in gaming system cartridges, like the original Nintendo, Gameboy, Sega Genesis, and others.
AMIBIOS BIOS
The oldest ROM-type storage medium can be dated back to 1932 with drum memory. ROM-type storage is still used and continues to be improved upon for better performance and storage capacity.
Computer RAM
RAM chips are also used in computers, as well as other devices, to store information and run programs. RAM is one of the fastest types of memory, allowing it to switch quickly between tasks. For example, the Internet browser you are using to read this page is loaded into RAM and is running from it.