Hi, guys. I’m recently looking for a memory that can read and write faster than SSD. I learned about RAM, a temporary memory that can only be used when powered on. I’ve been told it’s a volatile memory, and SSD is a non-volatile memory.
So my question is: What is a volatile memory? What is a non-volatile memory, could you give me some examples? What are the differences between volatile and non-volatile memory? Any help would be appreciated!
Volatile memory is a type of memory in which data is retained as long as the device is powered on or before it is turned off. However, it cannot save data after power is cut off, meaning all stored data will be lost once power is shut down or disconnected.
Its primary function is to provide temporary data storage space for computers and other devices, as it typically offers fast read and write speeds.
The best example of volatile memory is RAM. The main feature of RAM is that the reading and writing speed of data is fast. RAM can be divided into static RAM and dynamic RAM (DRAM). Static RAM is fast but more expensive, usually used in the CPU’s cache. Dynamic RAM (DRAM) is used more widely but requires constant data refresh, and is often used in the memory of ordinary computers and mobile devices.
Unlike volatile memory, non-volatile memory retains data information when power is turned off. This type of memory is widely used in computers, mobile phones, and other electronic devices for long-term storage of operating systems, applications, and user data.
Non-volatile memory can be divided into two main categories: ROM and Flash memory. ROM (read-only memory) is a semiconductor random access memory that can only be read but not written. Flash memory (flash memory) is a non-volatile memory that can be repeatedly erased and programmed and is widely used in various portable electronic products.
Their differences are mainly reflected in the following aspects.
Data Retention
Volatile memory: It requires power to maintain the stored data. That is to say, all stored data is lost once the power is turned off. Common examples include RAM (Random Access Memory), mainly used to store running programs and data.
Non-volatile memory: It retains data even when the power is turned off. Examples include flash memory, SSD, hard drives, and ROM (Read-Only Memory).
Speed
Volatile memory: volatile memory is generally faster than non-volatile memory in terms of speed. RAM, for instance, allows quick read and write operations needed for system processes.
Non-volatile memory: Compared to volatile memory, Non-volatile memory is Usually slower, but recent advancements in technology (like SSDs) have significantly improved its speed.
Cost
Volatile memory is more expensive per unit of storage due to its speed and the technology used to make it. For example, RAM costs more than hard drive storage for the same capacity.
However, Non-volatile memory is less expensive and offers larger storage capacities. Such as hard drives and SSDs provide more storage at a lower cost than RAM.
Energy Consumption
Volatile memory requires a constant supply of power to keep the contents stored. For example, dynamic random access memory (DRAM) constantly refreshes the stored data, which leads to high energy consumption.
Non-volatile memory holds data even after power is turned off, so little extra energy is required after data is stored. After data writing, no continuous power is demanded to maintain the data state, significantly reducing energy consumption.
Therefore, non-volatile memory has a clear energy advantage in scenarios with a long period of operation, and volatile memory is suitable for high-performance scenarios where frequent reads and writes are required.