Internal storage areas in the computer. The term memory identifies data storage that comes in the form of chips, and the word storage is used for memory that exists on tapes or disks. Moreover, the term memory is usually used as a shorthand for physical memory, which refers to the actual chips capable of holding data. Some computers also use virtual memory, which expands physical memory onto a hard disk.
Every computer comes with a certain amount of physical memory, usually referred to as main memory or RAM. You can think of main memory as an array of boxes, each of which can hold a single byte of information. A computer that has 1 megabyte of memory, therefore, can hold about 1 million bytes (or characters) of information.
Listed here are some of the terminology used in conjunction to memory, and it's properties.
SDRAM Synchronous dynamic random access memory delivers bursts of data at high speeds using a synchronous interface Its is actually SDR SDRAM (single data rate SDRAM) but is usually used to referred to as just SDRAM
SGRAM Synchronous graphics RAM A single port DRAM designed for graphics hardware that requires high-speed throughput such as 3-D rendering and full-motion video
SIM Single inline module Same as SIP except with a connector edge instead of leads
SIMM Single inline memory module A high-density DRAM package alternative consisting of several components connected to a single printed circuit board
SIP Single inline package A component or module that has one row of leads along one side
SLDRAM Synchronous link dynamic random access memory SLDRAM is a type of SDRAM that uses a multiplexed command bus allowing fewer pins to increase bandwidth and allow higher FSB speeds
SODIMM Small outline dual inline memory module Smaller and thinner than standard DIMMs, SODIMMs are typically used in laptop computers
SORIMM TM Small outline Rambus inline memory module SORIMMs have a smaller profile that standard RIMMs and are used in laptop computers and systems that have strict size requirements
SOJ Small outline J-lead package A rectangular package with leads sticking out of the side of the package The leads are formed in a J-bend profile, bending underneath and towards the bottom of the package
SPD Serial presence detect
SRAM See static random access memory
Serial Presence Detect An EEPROM on certain memory modules used to store and provide information to the system using the module
Semiconductor An element, such as silicon, that is intermediate in electrical conductivity between conductors and insulators, through which conduction takes place by means of holes and electrons
Shrink A reduction in die (chip) size A reduction in the size of the circuit design resulting in smaller die sizes that increases the number of possible die per wafer
Single Banked A memory module with only one bank or row See Bank
Speed The time it takes to put information into memory or get information out of memory It is measured from the time that an address and proper control signals are given, until the information is stored or placed in the devices output(s) RAM speed is typically expressed in nanoseconds (lower is faster) for EDO and FPM, and in MHz (higher is faster) for SDR SDRAM, DDR, SDRAM, and RDRAM
Static Random Access Memory An integrated circuit similar to a DRAM (dynamic random access memory) with the exception that the memory does not need to be refreshed Unlike volatile memory (ie, DRAM), SRAM retains its contents even when the main current is turned off
Synchronous Memory Memory that has its signals synchronized with the system clock SDRAM and DDR are examples of synchronous memory types
