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)