Dynamic Random Access Memory or DRAM represents volatile memory used in PCs and various other electronic devices for holding data temporarily and providing relatively quick access to it. Each data bit in DRAM gets stored in a separate capacitor through an integrated circuit. This type of DRAM is highly accessible and is available in large capacities at a lower price than other types of memory. The categorization of DRAM technology based on type is LPDDR, DDR5 SDRAM, DDR SDRAM, SDRAM, and others. SDRAM is one of the most popular types which provides faster data transfer rates because it is synchronous.
How does DRAM work?
Memory comprises a two-dimensional grid of pieces of data or program code. In DRAM, bits of data are stored within a memory cell that typically consists of a capacitor and a transistor. The layout of these storage cells often takes the form of a rectangle. The transistor in a column is energized when a charge passes through that column. DRAM memory cells are dynamic because they need to be periodically refreshed with an electronic charge every few milliseconds to balance out the leakage of the charge from the capacitor. The memory cells interact with other circuits that identify rows and columns, handle the refresh process, regulate whether a cell should accept a charge, and read or restore data from a cell.
Supply chain resilience and diversification in the DRAM industry
With technology advancing at a rocketing pace, the DRAM industry is constantly changing to meet the growing demand for faster, denser, and more efficient memory solutions. The global political scenario coupled with ongoing trade tensions brings in the need to focus on supply chain resilience in the sector. Traditionally, DRAM production is often concentrated in a limited region. However, increasing concern for diversifying locations where manufacturing is to be undertaken coupled with fostering domestic capabilities in different countries is expected to avoid probable interruptions and, hence, maintain a smooth DRAM chip supply chain.
Environmental sustainability and e-waste management in DRAM manufacturing
According to Allied Market Research, environmental sustainability is gaining prominence in the DRAM market. Manufacturers are looking to decrease the ecological footprint of DRAM manufacturing. This comprises a range of activities, from using recycled materials to reducing energy usage during manufacturing to minimizing the consumption of water during the chip fabrication process. “Green DRAM” is also becoming the tagline with eco-friendly memory solutions focusing on decreasing the environmental footprint from manufacturing through the lifecycle of the product.
With advancing DRAM technology, previous generations of DRAM chips are no longer in demand. This has raised some electronic waste management issues. Responsible e-waste disposal solutions are now being explored by the sector, along with DRAM component recycling. Moreover, efforts are made to extend the life cycle of existing modules using software optimization and efficient data management.
Samsung created the first-ever 24Gb GDDR7 DRAM in the industry
Samsung Electronics, the global leader in advanced memory technology, introduced the world’s first 24Gb GDDR7 DRAM in October 2024. It offers the highest capacity and fastest speeds available for the ideal solution for next-generation applications. With the impressive performance and great capacity of 24Gb GDDR7, it is applicable not only in traditional applications such as graphic cards, gaming consoles, and autonomous driving but also in data centers and AI workstations. The GDDR7 performance can be increased by up to 42.5Gbps, which depends on the specific application environment. Power efficiency also improves by applying technologies implemented in mobile products for the first time in graphics DRAM.
Summing up
DRAM technology is gaining popularity due to the growth in the adoption of 5G network systems and high usage of cloud computing, AI, and IoT. DRAM has become a core component for rapid data transfer from workstations and wearable electronics to smartphones. Leading manufacturers are discovering novel products with high bandwidth to strengthen their position in the competitive industry. Moreover, advances in cloud computing and data center growth are anticipated to open new avenues of research and development in the DRAM industry.
𝑨𝒓𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒓: Saranya Ganguly
