Static random-access memory

Static random-access memory (static RAM or SRAM) is a type of <a href="/facts/Random-access_memory/DuD4bxh6">random-access memory</a> (RAM) that uses <a href="/facts/Flip-flop_(electronics)/vA99xjM7">latching circuitry (flip-flop)</a> to store each bit. SRAM is <a href="/facts/Volatile_memory/SvvPe9XB">volatile memory</a>; data is lost when power is removed.
The static qualifier differentiates SRAM from <a href="/facts/Dynamic_random-access_memory/koI9FGo5">dynamic random-access memory</a> (DRAM):

<ul><li>SRAM will hold its data permanently in the presence of power, while data in DRAM decays in seconds and thus must be periodically <a href="/facts/Memory_refresh/Wg1uQekt">refreshed</a>.</li>
<li>SRAM is faster than DRAM but it is more expensive in terms of silicon area and cost.</li>
<li>Typically, SRAM is used for the <a href="/facts/CPU_cache/x8BYFcdv">cache</a> and internal <a href="/facts/CPU_register/32RvbUdz">registers</a> of a <a href="/facts/CPU/Jxp1bqMV">CPU</a> while DRAM is used for a computer's <a href="/facts/Main_memory/wPHKFpdx">main memory</a>.</li></ul>

Static random-access memory open-in-new

Static random-access memory