What Is One Gig of RAM Memory?
Computers must perform complex functions almost instantly in order to operate effectively. PCs need immediate access to stored data to carry out these functions. This is made possible by RAM, or random access memory.
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Definition
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RAM stands for random access memory, and is composed of small memory chips inside a memory module, or RAM chip. These memory modules are stored in slots on the computer motherboard. One gig, or gigabyte of RAM, is the equivalent of 1,024 megabytes, or 1,048,576 bytes. A byte is comprised of a group of eight bits of data. A bit is a single unit of information.
Function
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A gigabyte of RAM functions as temporary data storage. The CPU, or central processing unit, of a computer has direct access to all bytes of RAM, meaning it can access RAM memory the quickest among all the computer's memory systems. This allows a PC to process at optimal speed.
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Process
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Whenever a program or file opens, it is loaded from the hard drive into RAM for fast retrieval. The CPU first requests data from RAM storage, processes it as necessary, then writes new data back into RAM in an ongoing cycle. When an application closes, it along with any appropriate files are deleted from RAM to make space for new data.
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References
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