Scribd
Upload
17 views2 pages

RAM VS ROM

RAM is a volatile memory used for temporary storage of data actively being processed, while ROM is a non-volatile memory that permanently stores firmware and essential system instructions. RAM allows read and write operations, making it faster and suitable for running applications, whereas ROM is primarily read-only, slower, and used for critical software like bootloaders. Examples of RAM include DRAM and SRAM, while ROM includes PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM.

Uploaded by

valhallaassassin84
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
17 views2 pages

RAM VS ROM

RAM is a volatile memory used for temporary storage of data actively being processed, while ROM is a non-volatile memory that permanently stores firmware and essential system instructions. RAM allows read and write operations, making it faster and suitable for running applications, whereas ROM is primarily read-only, slower, and used for critical software like bootloaders. Examples of RAM include DRAM and SRAM, while ROM includes PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM.

Uploaded by

valhallaassassin84
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read-Only Memory) are both types of computer

memory, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics. Here's a
comparison:

1. Purpose

 RAM:
o Temporary storage used by the computer to store data that is actively being
used or processed.
o Helps the system run applications and manage tasks efficiently.
 ROM:
o Permanent storage used to store firmware or essential system instructions,
such as the BIOS or bootloader.
o Contains data that does not change during normal operation.

2. Volatility

 RAM:
o Volatile memory: Data is lost when the power is turned off.
 ROM:
o Non-volatile memory: Data is retained even when the power is off.

3. Write Capability

 RAM:
o Read and write memory: Can be modified by the system and user programs.
 ROM:
o Read-only memory: Data is pre-written during manufacturing and is not easily
altered. (Though modern variants like EEPROM or Flash ROM allow some
updates.)

4. Speed

 RAM:
o Very fast, enabling quick data access and processing.
 ROM:
o Slower than RAM since its primary function is data retrieval, not active
processing.

5. Usage
 RAM:
o Used for running applications, loading operating systems, and temporary
storage during operation.
 ROM:
o Stores critical software like firmware required for booting and hardware
control.

6. Examples

 RAM:
o DRAM (Dynamic RAM)
o SRAM (Static RAM)
 ROM:
o PROM (Programmable ROM)
o EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM)
o EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM)

Summary Table:

Feature RAM ROM


Purpose Temporary storage for tasks Permanent storage for firmware
Volatility Volatile (data lost on power off) Non-volatile (data retained)
Write Capability Read and Write Read-Only (or limited write)
Speed Faster Slower
Usage Running programs, OS Bootloader, firmware

Let me know if you’d like further details!

You might also like