I thought of writing this blog on types of NVRAM (Non Volatile RAM) to share and also, enhance my knowledge on NVRAM market. In my knowledge, currently, there are three types of technologies on NVRAM are available in market.
In NVRAM, each bit has its own memory address,
and can be part of the computer's addressable memory along with the volatile
static and dynamic RAM (SRAM and DRAM) chips shipped with the computer. The first semiconductor NVRAM technology was battery-backed SRAM. It was created by the simple expedient of providing a rechargeable battery to keep power applied to the SRAM when system power was removed. This is still in use and works well for limited time periods, but the batteries take up useful space, and eventually discharge. Computer users who store their computers without power for long periods of time find that the units lose their CMOS setup information because it is typically stored in battery-backed SRAM.
Today, so-called flash memory takes the place of
battery-backed SRAM in a number of applications. Most notably, flash has made
possible compact "memory sticks," which are just flash memory chips packaged along
with a USB interface. When plugged into a USB port, they appear as a "removable
drive." They serve the same function as floppy disks. Flash memory can be (and
is) used for more reliable CMOS Setup storage and virtually any other NVRAM
application. Flash's main drawback is a limitation on the number of read/write
cycles its cells can endure. Other NVRAM technologies under development include phase-change RAM (PRAM), Silicon-Oxide-Nitride-Oxide-Silicon (SONOS), Resistive Random Access Memory (RRAM), Nano-RAM (NRAM), and perhaps others. All of these are under development. Allow download: Allow download |
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