Different Types of Computer Memory

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By Donald Miller
eHow Contributing Writer

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Computer memory, like other forms of technology, is almost constantly changing and advancing. One result of this is that exceptions to the rules in terminology keep cropping up. There are some general terms, though, that serve as handles from which to delve further into the complexities of the subject.

RAM

This stands for "random access memory." RAM is considered "volatile" because when the power is off, whatever was stored in RAM is cleared out. There are different forms of RAM.

Hard Disk

A hard disk is a data storage device, but is also a form of memory. It's "non-volatile" because information remains intact even when power to the computer is off.

ROM

This is "read only memory," a non-volatile type. Think of reading a book versus writing, erasing and re-writing with pencil and paper. A common example is the CD-ROM.

Flash

Flash memory is a form that strains the definitions because it is a kind of ROM that can be erased and re-written. It's "non-volatile" because the data remains when the power is off.

Future

New types of memory are in the research and development stage. Perhaps the most intriguing is IBM's so-called "Racetrack" memory. It features nanowire tracks on which data is read and written at high speeds.