| random-access memory (RAM) (Previously "direct-access memory"). A data storage device for which the order of access to different locations does not affect the speed of access. This is in contrast to, say, a , or a where it is very much quicker to access data sequentially because accessing a non-sequential location requires physical movement of the storage medium rather than just electronic switching. The most common form of RAM in use today is built from s, which can be either static () or dynamic (). In the 1970s magnetic memory was used. RAM is still referred to as core by some old-timers. The term "RAM" has gained the additional meaning of read-write. Most kinds of semiconductor (ROM) are actually "random access" in the above sense but are never referred to as RAM. Furthermore, memory referred to as RAM can usually be read and written equally quickly (approximately), in contrast to the various kinds of . Finally, RAM is usually volatile though is also used. Interestingly, some devices are not truly random access because various kinds of "" or "column mode" mean that sequential access is faster than random access. (1995-12-05) |
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