Memory, RAM, and ROM

Computer memory can be defined as any physical device capable of storing information temporarily or permanently. Memory is not disc storage and is used to allow programs to communicate with the processor at higher speeds.

Memory can be both Volatile and Non-volatile. Volatile loses it's contents when the computer is shut off. Non-volatile keeps it's contents even when power is lost. RAM is an example of volatile memory and EPROM is Non-volatile.

ROM and RAM chips are not the same thing and have a major difference. ROM is used primarily during the start up process of a computer. RAM is used after the start up during normal processes. ROM is volatile and RAM is non-volatile. RAM can store more information that ROM, storing up to 16GB or more while ROM has up to 4MB or more per chip.

Computer Bios is a good example of ROM, and it is also used in gaming system cartridges such as the original Nintendo, Gameboy, Sega Genesis, and more. RAM is the fastest memory in our computer and is used to run programs and the normal processes of a computer. However the downside of RAM is that any information is lost once the computer loses power.

Sources:
http://www.computerhope.com/jargon/m/memory.htm
http://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch001361.htm