Semiconductor memory would store data and instructions, would enable a smartphone, computer, medical equipment, or industrial automation to work. This little wonder, made from silicon and creativity, uses electrical charges to represent double data-that is, the 1s and 0s-forming the language of modern technology. Let us learn more about it:
Definition
Semiconductor memory is the primary memory component of a microcomputer-based system and uses it to store program as well as data. Main memory elements are semiconductor devices that store code and information permanently. The access to semiconductor memory is directly given by microprocessors. This data present in primary memory should be matching with the operating time of the microprocessor, making the semiconductor devices the preferred ones for primary memory. Semiconductor (prime) memories are ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROMs and SRAM, DRAM. Semiconductor memories are fabricated by CMOS technology.
Types of Semiconductor Memory
Random Access Memory is best known for is its nature of being known trained with computers. The Read and write (R/W) memory of a computer is popularly called as RAM. Putting in terms easily understood by a layperson, data can easily be placed in it and extracted from it by the user. Because the RAM is a volatile memory, this means that the information written to it is retained only when there is power supply. RAM handles and processes instructions for temporary use until the CPU requires them. It provides scratchpad storage in memory space for the temporary storage of data.
Read Only Memory is one of the examples of non-volatile memories. ROM is a form of storage media used in a computer as well as other electronic gadgets. Read Only Memory, also referred to as firmware, is actually an integrated circuit which is programmed with certain data when it gets manufactured. All instructions to start a computer are stored in Read only memory chip.
Working
Each memory cell consists of solid-state devices and capacitors. Solid-state devices act as switches, controlling power flow to capacitors, which in turn store an electric charge corresponding to binary 0 or 1 values. For DRAM, the capacitor stores the information bit in the form of a charge. However, since this charge slowly leaks, it causes memory cell data to leak and needs refreshing often. Reviving includes reading the data from the cell, boosting it, and writing back to that cell.
SRAM has a lock circuit formed by two semiconductors in which the data bit is stored. This does not require refreshing and keeps the data intact as long as the power is on. Instead of the other types of memories, flash memory uses floating-gate transistors. Due to the fact that gate can trap or release electrons, memory can be erased and rewritten electrically.
Advantages
High Speed: Fast data retrieval from semiconductor memory leads to a highly responsive system that operates smoothly.
Scalability: storing capacity of the semiconductor memory chips will go up with it, as well as the increasing demand for storing data.
Low consumption of power: Compared to the other memory types including the magnetic storage, it helps in energy efficiency.
Very high density of storage: The greatest amounts of information can be stored in an extremely small space.
Being a basic component of today’s hardware, semiconductor memory is an essential factor in the functionality of computers, cell phones, and several other devices. It is continuously changing with new technologies emerging to enhance its performance, capacity, and cost-efficiency.
