What is the difference between RAM memory & hard drive memory?
Random access memory (RAM) most commonly refers to computer chips that temporarily store dynamic data to enhance computer performance. Random access memory is volatile memory, meaning it loses its contents once power is cut. This is different from non-volatile memory such as hard disks which do not require a power source to retain data.
When a computer shuts down properly, all data located in random access memory is committed to permanent storage on the hard drive. At the next boot-up, RAM begins to fill with programs automatically loaded at startup and with files opened by the user.
Random access memory is categorized by architecture and speed. As technology progresses, RAM chips become faster and employ new standards so that RAM must be matched to its compatible motherboard. A motherboard will only support certain types of random access memory such as PC133, PC100, SDRAM, DDR, DDR2 and DDR3 and it will also have a limit as to the amount of RAM it can support.
RAM prices vary in cost according to type of RAM, capacity and other factors. Contact us for a free RAM quote.
A computer hard drive is non-volatile memory where all of a computer's programs and files are stored. What this means is that when a computer shuts down properly all data located on a hard drive is automatically saved.
Hard drive storage capacity can go anywhere from 40GigaBytes (GB) to TeraBytes (1,000GB). Typically you will see hard drives on the market in 100GB, 250GB, 320GB and 500GB sizes at varying speeds of 5400 or 7200 rotations per minute (rpm).
SSI Computers highly recommends that you periodically back up your hard drive to external media such as a flash drive, DVD or external storage device. If the internal hard drive is damaged for some reason you could possibly lose everything on your computer.