random access memory

n : the most common computer memory which can be used by

programs to perform necessary tasks while the computer is

on; an integrated circuit memory chip allows information

to be stored or accessed in any order and all storage

locations are equally accessible [syn: {random-access

memory}, {random memory}, {RAM}, {read/write memory}]

static random access memory

(SRAM) {Random access memory} in which each bit of

storage is a bistable {flip-flop}, commonly consisting of

cross-coupled inverters. It is called "static" because it

will retain a value as long as power is supplied, unlike

{dynamic random access memory} (DRAM) which must be regularly

refreshed. It is however, still {volatile}, i.e. it will lose

its contents when the power is switched off, in contrast to

{ROM}. SRAM is usually faster than DRAM but since each bit

requires several transistors (about six) you can get less bits

of SRAM in the same area. It usually costs more per bit than

DRAM and so is used for the most speed-critical parts of a

computer (e.g. {cache} memory) or other circuit.

(1995-04-22)