Computer Hardware Terms, Glossary and Dictionary

Static random access memory (SRAM) is a type of memory faster and more reliable than the more common DRAM (dynamic RAM). The word "static" indicates that the memory retains its contents as long as power remains applied, unlike dynamic RAM (DRAM) that needs to be periodically refreshed. Fast SRAM is used where speed is the most important requirement, as in the cache of a CPU and in digital signal processing circuits. Slow, low-capacity SRAMs are used where low power consumption and low cost are the most important requirements, as in battery-powered backup RAM. SRAM is less dense than DRAM (fewer bits per unit area) and is therefore not suitable for high-capacity, low-cost applications such as PC extended memory.

Related Terms

SRAM: Static random access memory