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In a groundbreaking development, a team of researchers has introduced a novel form of computer memory, ULTRARAM, that could potentially revolutionize the performance of computers and other digital devices.
This “universal memory” has been designed to outlive the lifespan of your SSD’s flash storage, match the read/write speeds of system memory, all while requiring less power. The brainchild of Professor Manus Hayne from the physics department of Lancaster University, this innovative technology has been brought to life by Quinas Technology, a startup based at the same university. In the current digital landscape, most devices rely on two types of memory: flash memory and system memory, also known as DRAM.
While system memory is fast and can be rewritten multiple times, it requires a constant power supply to maintain storage. Flash memory, on the other hand, is slower but retains data for a longer period even when the power is off. ULTRARAM is designed to not just match, but potentially surpass these functions. ULTRARAM’s versatility allows it to be implemented across a range of devices.
One of the most intriguing features of ULTRARAM is the elimination of the ‘sleep mode’. Instead, users can maintain a ‘snapshot’ of their system’s current state, such as open browser tabs or programs, which is saved when the device is turned off. This snapshot is then quickly loaded when the device is turned back on, thanks to ULTRARAM’s speed.
Imagine turning off your computer, returning after a thousand years, and booting up your device exactly where you left off. This capability could be particularly beneficial for devices like laptops, cellphones, and mobile gaming devices that are frequently left in ‘standby’ mode. However, Quinas Technology highlights that ULTRARAM’s true potential lies in data center applications due to its lower energy consumption and increased data storage capacity. As with any emerging technology, it’s too early to predict when ULTRARAM will be integrated into our devices or what the cost implications might be. Nevertheless, the introduction of this new form of memory marks an exciting step forward in the realm of computer technology.
