static random access memory
<storage> (SRAM) Random access memory in which each bit of storage is a
bistable flip-flop, commonly consisting of cross-coupled inverters. It is called
"static" because it will retain a value as long as power is supplied, unlike
dynamic random access memory (DRAM) which must be regularly refreshed. It is
however, still volatile, i.e. it will lose its contents when the power is
switched off, in contrast to ROM. SRAM is usually faster than DRAM but since
each bit requires several transistors (about six) you can get less bits of SRAM
in the same area. It usually costs more per bit than DRAM and so is used for the
most speed-critical parts of a computer (e.g. cache memory) or other circuit.
(1995-04-22)
Nearby terms:
static nested scope « static nested scoping « static
RAM «
static random access memory » static scope »
static typing » Station Management
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