Computer RAM & Memory

Secure Digital cards are versatile, easy to use and found in all kinds of portable electronics. How do these tiny flash memory devices hold so much information?

By Stephanie Crawford

The different types of computer memory can be confusing. Take a look at these pictures of RAM, ROM, flash memory and more to learn about what the various types of memory are up to in your computer.

Chances are good that your operating system includes virtual memory. It makes your computer act like it has a lot more RAM than actually it does. Find out what virtual memory is and how it increases the speed of your PC.

Removable memory has unchained us from our PCs -- we can now carry gigabytes of data wherever we go in a device the size of a matchbox. Learn about the three major digital storage technologies.

By Jeff Tyson

We're talking Star Wars-level futuristic here: Holographic memory could potentially store terabytes of data in a 1-centimeter cube. Learn how tomorrow's ultra-high-capacity computer memory will work!

By Kevin Bonsor

One of the most common uses of Flash memory is for the basic input/output system of your computer, commonly known as the BIOS. On virtually every system available, the BIOS makes sure all the other chips, hard drives, ports and CPU function together.

By Jeff Tyson

Unlike conventional hard drives, flash memory has no moving parts to break. And it can be used in smaller spaces, such as a pocket camera or cell phone. So why use anything else?

By Jeff Tyson

Read-only memory is not only essential to your computer, but is also used in everything from video games to microwaves. Learn about the different types of ROM and how they're used.

By Jeff Tyson

Chances are good that your operating system includes virtual memory. It makes your computer act like it has a lot more RAM than it does. Find out what virtual memory is and how it increases the speed of your PC.

By Jeff Tyson

Random access memory (RAM) is as important to your computer's operation as the CPU, because it determines how quickly and efficiently your computer performs tasks. So how does it do that and can you upgrade it?

By Jeff Tyson & Chris Pollette

Your computer probably uses both static RAM and dynamic RAM at the same time, but for different reasons. See what both types of RAM do in your computer.

By Talon Homer

Like our brains, computers use both short-term and long-term memory to store data. But the similarities end there. There are several types of computer memory that are arranged based on both technical and financial concerns.

By Jeff Tyson

Up to a point, adding RAM (random access memory) will make your computer feel faster on certain types of operations. However, upgrading the CPU may make it several times faster across the board.

By Talon Homer

Caching increases the speed at which your computer pulls data from memory. Do you know how it speeds things up? How can a little cache go a really, really long way?

By Guy Provost