Memory Electronics

Memory electronics—internal or external storage devices for computing systems that use electronics to record and read data—have largely replaced magnetic tape-based memory devices, like hard disk drives. Electronic memory is at the core of flash memory, which is used in a huge number of different devices and applications. These include everything from consumer cellphones and cameras to high-tech, industrial systems in transportation and healthcare that handle critical data. The two most common forms of electronic memory are volatile and non-volatile storage. Both of these play roles in modern computing systems.

Volatile vs. Non-Volatile Memory

The difference between volatile and non-volatile memory is what happens to the data when the power is disconnected from the memory system. With volatile memory, the information is lost when the power is turned off. An example of volatile memory is DRAM. Non-volatile memory is memory that continues to store data even when the power is disconnected. The most common form of non-volatile memory is flash. With both types of memory, the presence and amount of electronic charges, or the absence of a charge, determine how data are read or written.

Flash Memory

Most designers and OEMs looking for electronic memory are looking for non-volatile flash. With flash memory, electronic charges of different voltages allow data to be programmed and read from memory chips. There are different grades of flash memory, from TLC flash, in which three or more bits of data are stored on each cell within the memory device, to SLC flash, in which one bit of data is stored per cell. SLC flash is the most reliable, fastest, and longest-lasting form of flash memory.

Challenges with Memory Electronics

Electronic memory is considered to be much more reliable than magnetic tape memory. However, it does present some challenges. Leakage between cells is one of the biggest challenges, while lifespan can also be a concern with this kind of memory. Selecting the appropriate grade for the device in question can mitigate these concerns.

Let the expert product team at Delkin help you navigate your options when it comes to memory electronics. Contact us today for more information about our rugged storage solutions.

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