Developments in RAM

Invention of Magnetic Core Memory

1940

Magnetic core memory was developed as the first widely used form of computer memory, utilizing tiny magnetic rings to store data.

Introduction of Static RAM (SRAM)

1960

SRAM, which uses flip-flops to store data, was introduced. It is faster than other types of RAM but more expensive and power-hungry.

Introduction of Dynamic RAM (DRAM)

1968

DRAM was invented by Dr. Robert Dennard at IBM. Unlike SRAM, it uses capacitors to store data and needs to be periodically refreshed, but it’s cheaper and can store more data.

First Commercial DRAM Chip

1970

Intel released the first commercially available DRAM chip, the Intel 1103, marking the beginning of widespread use of DRAM in computers.

Introduction of Video RAM (VRAM)

1980

VRAM, a specialized type of RAM used for video and graphics processing, was introduced to support the growing demand for higher graphics performance in computers.

Rise of Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM)

1990

SDRAM was introduced, synchronizing the memory’s operation with the processor’s clock, improving the performance of memory access.

Introduction of DDR (Double Data Rate) SDRAM

2000

DDR SDRAM was introduced, allowing data to be transferred on both the rising and falling edges of the clock cycle, effectively doubling the data rate compared to regular SDRAM.

Development of DDR2 and DDR3

2003

DDR2 and DDR3 were developed as successive generations of DDR SDRAM, offering higher speeds and lower power consumption compared to their predecessors.

Introduction of DDR4

2014

DDR4 was introduced, offering faster speeds, higher capacity, and better energy efficiency compared to DDR3, becoming the standard in personal computing and servers.

Development of HBM (High Bandwidth Memory)

2015

HBM, designed for high-performance computing and graphics, was introduced. It uses stacked memory chips and a wider memory interface to achieve much higher bandwidth than traditional DRAM.

Introduction of Persistent Memory (Intel Optane)

2017

Intel introduced its Optane memory technology, bridging the gap between volatile DRAM and non-volatile storage like SSDs, offering high performance and persistent memory capabilities.

Launch of DDR5

2020

DDR5 was introduced, providing significant improvements in data transfer rates, density, and energy efficiency compared to DDR4, becoming the new standard for next-gen processors.