The following article will focus on the difference between RAM and ROM. RAM and ROM are storage memories where a computer’s data can be created, stored, and erased permanently and temporarily. Though the types and differences between RAM and ROM emerged with the innovation of computers, they are now found in various electronic devices such as cameras, printers, android phones, cellular phones, Routers, CPUs, etc.
What is RAM and ROM – the difference between RAM and ROM:
RAM or Random-Access Memory is used to store the temporary information of a computer, such as work done in a computer device for a day, and is erased when the system shuts down.
RAM is a volatile memory, which means that the data is stored just when the program or device is operating; once it is closed, the data is no longer available to use. This is because the transistor of a RAM operates on electric currents through which the information is stored on the device; once the currents stop running through the device, the process of storing data is stopped.
ROM or Read Only Memory is the permanent data stored on the computer device. It cannot be erased directly from the computer and is used mainly to boot the system.
ROM is a non-volatile memory where the data is stored permanently on the computer and cannot be erased when the device is turned off.
RAM and ROM are which type of memory?
A computer operates on two formats of storage capacity, i.e., primary memory and secondary memory. The secondary memory of a computer includes Hard Drives, CDs, etc., which function as long-term storage for a computer device.
Types of RAM:
RAM can be further divided into two subcategories of memory such as:
- Static Random Access-Memory or SRAM – Data here is stored using the form of a six-transistor memory cell.
- Dynamic Random Access Memory or DRAM
Types of ROM:
Just like RAM, ROM is also further divided into four subcategories, namely:
- Programmable Read-Only Memory or PROM – data is written after the creation of the memory chip.
- Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory or EPROM – data is erased using high-intensity UV light.
- Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory.
- Mask Read-Only Memory or MROM – data is written while the manufacturing chip is manufactured.
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Advantages of RAM and ROM:
RAM and ROM have some advantages, which further add to the difference between RAM and ROM.
RAM:
- Data can be read, erased, and modified.
- RAM is larger than ROM.
- Therefore, RAM yields a higher capacity.
- The operation of RAM is silent as it does not contain any moving parts.
- Uses less power.
- Saves the battery of the device.
ROM:
- Security of data: the device’s data is not lost when the system shuts down.
- Static in nature: once the data is incorporated, it does not need any modifications.
- Cost-effective as they are cheaper than RAMs.
- The data doesn’t change accidentally and automatically.
RAM and ROM in mobile phones:
Just as in computer devices, the difference between RAM and ROM is also present in mobile phones. RAM and ROM function differently in mobiles as compared to computer devices.
RAM in mobiles:
When a mobile is switched on, and an app is opened, the data from that app is stored in the mobile in its RAM. It is in written format and does not appear on the mobile screen, so unless the user doesn’t have a clear idea that the app’s data is being stored in the RAM of the computer, they would not be able to know that it needs to be duly erased from the device’s memory.
The data from the apps are in the form of cached files and can slow the functioning of the mobile device. For example, the user might experience the device hanging; it takes more time for an app to open and start functioning; the app might stop working suddenly or responding, etc.
ROM in mobiles:
ROM is present in the mobile phone’s hard disk as its operating software, just like in a computer device, is permanently stored in the device and cannot be removed internally. ROM cannot be erased unless the computer’s hard drive is damaged externally. ROM is present as internal storage of the mobile and a memory card.
Examples of RAM and ROM:
While engaging in everyday conversation with someone who does not belong to technological background, the difference between RAM and ROM can be best explained using examples that are seen to the naked eye of the person.
Examples of RAM:
As mentioned above, RAM does not stay in the permanent storage of a device, and the data is stored in it only through electrical transmission. Therefore, RAM is present in Routers, CPU cache, Graphics Card, Video game consoles, Printers, etc.
Examples of ROM:
ROM cannot be permanently deleted unless the device’s hard drive is exposed to external factors such as UV light or electrical field emission. RAM, in this sense, is found in USB drives, memory cards, internal storage of mobile or computer, etc.
Why does a computer need both RAM and ROM?
It has been made clear in the mentioned differences between RAM and ROM that both have to serve different purposes in the functioning of a device. A computer uses two primary storage mediums as the data has to be stored in different formats. Imagine having only ROM as the primary storage, all the cache from different software and games, as well as any work done on the computer, would store automatically, and the storage would soon be full given the fact that the user does not have a choice in selecting what data must be saved in the device.
RAM stores and deletes the data as soon as the device shuts down. The shortage of memory does not stop the flow of data with the presence of RAM.