Static RAM and Dynamic RAM are both types of Random Access Memory (RAM). A random access memory is a random-access memory device that allows data items to be read or written in almost the same amount of time irrespective of the physical location of data inside the memory. RAM is typically used to store working data and machine code.
RAM is the main memory in a computer and it is much faster to read from and write to than other kinds of storage such as a hard disk drive (HDD) and Solid state drive (SDD) or optical drive. RAM is volatile in nature. What this means is that, data is retained in RAM as long as the computer is turned on. When power is turned off, data is not held and it disappears.
What Static Random Access Memory (SRAM)?
SRAM is a form of semiconductor memory widely used in electronics, microprocessor and general computing applications. In this type of RAM, data is held in a static manner and does not require to be updated dynamically. What is meant by data being held in static manner is that data is held in semiconductor memory without the need to update it as long as the power is applied to the memory.
What You Need To Know About SRAM
- Static RAM is a type of semiconductor memory that uses bistable latching circuitry to store each bit.
- SRAM uses transistor to store a single bit of data.
- Holds data indefinitely as long as the computer is turned on.
- SRAM does not require periodic refreshment to maintain data.
- SRAM has lower access time; therefore it is faster compared to DRAM.
- SRAM are used in Cache memory.
- SRAM’s structure is complex than DRAM. It comprises of array of six transistors, latches and cross-coupled inverters.
- SRAM has low packaging density.
- Due to complexity of internal circuitry, less storage capacity is available compared to the same physical size of DRAM memory chip.
- SRAM requires constant power supply, which means this type of memory consumes more power.
- Generates more heat.
- SRAM is used to create speed-sensitive cache.
- Latency is low in SRAM.
- Comparatively expensive.
What Is Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM)?
Dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) is a type of random access semiconductor memory that stores each bit of data in a memory cell consisting of a tiny capacitor and a transistor, both typically based on metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) technology. This type of RAM is commonly used in personal computers (PCs), workstations and servers.
DRAM is an efficient way to store data in memory, because it requires less physical space to store the same amount of data than if it was stored statically. DRAM requires periodic refreshment to maintain the charge in the capacitors for data.
What You Need To Know About DRAM
- Dynamic random access memory is a type of random access memory that stores each bit of data in a separate capacitor within an integrated circuit.
- DRAM uses a separate capacitor to store each bit of data.
- Holds data dynamically not indefinitely.
- DRAM requires periodic refreshment to maintain the charge in the capacitors for data.
- DRAM has higher access time; therefore it is slower than SRAM.
- DRAM is used in main memory.
- DRAM’s structure is simple when compared to that of DRAM. It comprises of one capacitor and very few transistors.
- Due to simplicity and size of internal circuitry in the one-bit memory cell of DRAM. Large storage capacity is available.
- DRAM offers reduced power consumption, due to the fact that the information is stored in the capacitor.
- Generates less heat.
- DRAM is used to create a larger RAM space system.
- Latency is high in DRAM.
- Comparatively less costly.
Also Read: Difference Between RAM And ROM
Difference Between Static RAM And Dynamic RAM In Tabular Form
| BASIS OF COMPARISON | SRAM | DRAM |
| Description | Static RAM is a type of semiconductor memory that uses bistable latching circuitry to store each bit. | Dynamic random access memory is a type of random access memory that stores each bit of data in a separate capacitor within an integrated circuit. |
| Storage Of Bit Of Data | SRAM uses transistor to store a single bit of data. | DRAM uses a separate capacitor to store each bit of data. |
| Data Holding | Holds data indefinitely as long as the computer is turned on. | Holds data dynamically not indefinitely. |
| Refreshment | SRAM does not require periodic refreshment to maintain data. | DRAM requires periodic refreshment to maintain the charge in the capacitors for data. |
| Access Time | SRAM has lower access time; therefore it is faster compared to DRAM. | DRAM has higher access time; therefore it is slower than SRAM. |
| Place Of Use | SRAM are used in Cache memory. | DRAM is used in main memory. |
| Structure | SRAM’s structure is complex than DRAM. It comprises of array of six transistors, latches and cross-coupled inverters. | DRAM’s structure is simple when compared to that of DRAM. It comprises of one capacitor and very few transistors. |
| Storage Capacity | Due to complexity of internal circuitry, less storage capacity is available compared to the same physical size of DRAM memory chip. | Due to simplicity and size of internal circuitry in the one-bit memory cell of DRAM. Large storage capacity is available. |
| Power Supply | SRAM requires constant power supply, which means this type of memory consumes more power. | DRAM offers reduced power consumption, due to the fact that the information is stored in the capacitor. |
| Heat Generation | Generates more heat. | Generates less heat. |
| Application | SRAM is used to create speed-sensitive cache. | DRAM is used to create a larger RAM space system. |
| Latency | Latency is low in SRAM. | Latency is high in DRAM. |
| Cost | Comparatively expensive. | Comparatively less costly. |