Last Updated on October 22, 2023 by Kevin Chen
Photo from Pixabay
SRAM is an abbreviation for Static RAM that is also known as storage-based memory.
SRAM is commonly used in computer systems as a fast, stand-alone memory. SRAM uses a high voltage to store data and can be accessed very quickly.
It stores the data until it is reset or powered off. This article covers everything you need to know about SRAM IC, its types, working principle,s and applications in detail.
What is SRAM used for?
SRAM IC is primarily used for computer memory storage, where a lot of information is being processed at once and must be kept track of constantly.
This is also known as working memory, and it’s responsible for keeping information on the screen, as well as facilitating the transfer of information between two or more different sources.
SRAM is also found in applications such as networking and audio equipment, as well as in many different types of microprocessors.
Components of SRAM IC
An SRAM IC comprises three types of cells. These are the 4T cell, 6T cells, and TFT cells.
4T cell
This type of cell is mainly made of n-type metal-oxide-semiconductor transistors. It is a transistor that has been designed to act as a memory cell.
It is made up of three terminals: the source, the drain, and the gate.
4T cell is usually smaller than the 6T cell.
It also has a high resistance value, a feature that makes it more sensitive to errors and static noise.
6T cells
These cells are made of n-type metal-oxide-semiconductor transistors as well, but they have six terminals instead of three. The two additional terminals are called the PC (programming cell) and PE (programming enable). Each cell has its own PC terminal and PE terminal. In addition to this, each pair of cells also has its own PC and PE terminals.
As you can see in figure 3, there are two pairs of 4T cells connected together in series between their respective PC and PE terminals.
TFT cells
These are made up of thin film transistors instead of n-type metal-oxide-semiconductor transistors.
They have the same structure as 6T cells but with no programming capability because they do not have a PE terminal. They can be programmed by applying voltage to their PC input pin from an external source.
The programming voltage used for TFT SRAM ICs is 5 volts; however, this can vary depending on what type you use for your application or product design.
This means that TFT SRAM ICs cannot be programmed using software like other types of SRAM ICs can be; they must be programmed through an external source like a 5V power supply or other devices capable of generating high voltages
How Does An SRAM IC Work?
When an SRAM IC is being used, the transistors inside the chip are turned on or off by a voltage that the IC supplies itself with.
The voltage comes from an onboard capacitor, and it is charged up by a small amount of electric current every time the IC is powered on.
This capacitor holds that charge and then discharges it at a specific rate, which is controlled by the computer system.
When the capacitor is discharged, it sends a charge through the SRAM IC’s transistors, which then lets electricity flow into a circuit connected to the chip.
That electricity gets stored in the circuit on the chip, and once it has been stored there for a certain amount of time (typically less than a 10th of a second), it is then removed from the circuit and sent to the next destination.
This cycle continues as long as the IC is powered on, and it is responsible for keeping data in the chip and keeping track of information.
This is very important in computer systems, where data that is being processed regularly needs to be stored and kept track of at all times.
Why Is SRAM Important?
As discussed above, SRAM is primarily used for storing data temporarily and keeping track of information that is being processed in a computer system.
Computer systems process data all the time, and without a way to keep track of it all, they would shut down very quickly.
This is where SRAM comes into play. It is responsible for storing data in the computer when it’s being processed and keeping track of it so that it is kept flowing smoothly through the system.
An SRAM IC is an integral part of any computer system, where it is used for keeping information flowing.
It is also used for storing information for a short amount of time as well, as long as the computer system is actively processing that information.
Types of SRAM IC
SRAM ICs are not all the same. They are put into different classes depending on various parameters such as the type of transistors used, functionality, the working mechanism, and configuration among others.
When it comes to functionality, we have to main types of SRAM ICs. These are Asynchronous and Synchronous SRAM.
Asynchronous SRAM IC
This type of SRAM has three clock signals that direct all the operations. They are the Read, Write and Clock. While the clock signal is responsible for synchronizing all operations, the read and write signals are responsible for enabling the data to be written into or read from the SRAM IC.
This type of SRAM IC is used in applications that have a high frequency of data changes, because of its ability to process data quickly.
Synchronous SRAM IC
This type of SRAM uses only one clock signal, but it has an enable signal, as well as a separate write, enable signal. This enables it to perform faster than Asynchronous SRAM ICs but also makes it more complex and expensive to manufacture.
This type of SRAM is used in applications that require lower frequencies than Asynchronous SRAMs can support.
What is the difference between SRAM and DRAM?
The main difference between the two is that SRAM is a type of non-volatile memory while DRAM is volatile.
This means that while SRAM retains its data even after the power supply is removed, DRAM loses its data as soon as the power supply is turned off.
Both types of memory are used in various applications. For example, SRAMs are used in computers for cache and main memory, while DRAMs are used for secondary memory and storage such as hard drives and flash drives.
Also, SRAMs are faster and more expensive than DRAMs.
Why is SRAM IC Expensive?
We have just mentioned that SRAM ICs are more expensive than DRAM ICs.
What makes them so expensive?
When considering the cost of an SRAM IC, it is important to keep in mind that it is a very complex device that is responsible for much more than just storing information.
In fact, an SRAM IC is responsible for storing, processing, and releasing information all at once.
This is very complex and advanced technology, which is why they are often very expensive.
As long as you know how to implement an SRAM IC into your project and what to look for in a good distributor, then there really shouldn’t be any issues with the cost of an SRAM IC.
Technical specs of SRAM IC
– Voltage: This refers to the power supplied by the device. The voltage rating of an SRAM IC is usually 3.3 volts, 5 volts, or even higher.
– Speed: This refers to how quickly the information can be retrieved from the memory. The speed of an SRAM IC is measured in nanoseconds (ns).
– Data Retention: This refers to how long the data can be stored in the memory without being lost. The data retention time of an SRAM IC is usually measured in hours or days (like a hard drive).
-Chip size: This refers to the physical size of the integrated circuit.
– Connectivity: This information tells how many pins the IC has. The more pins an IC has, the more functionality it can provide.
-Logic family: The family refers to the logic gates used in the IC. There are many different logic families, however, the most common one is CMOS (Complimentary Metal Oxide Semiconductor).
-Memory size: How much data can be stored in the memory of an SRAM IC.
– Data rate: This spec tells how quickly information can be retrieved from the memory of an SRAM IC.
Operating temp[erature: The operating temperature of an SRAM IC is usually measured in degrees Celsius (°C).
Package Type: The types include DIP (dual in line package), TSSOP (Thin Small Outline Package), and SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit).
-Thermal characteristics: This information tells how the temperature of an SRAM IC affects the speed. The higher the temperature, the slower the speed.
What is Static Noise Margin in SRAM IC
Image source History-computer
The static Noise Margin of an SRAM IC is usually derived from the curve of voltage transfer using the paired inverters of the IC.
The Static Noise Margin of an SRAM IC is usually expressed as a percentage and is equal to the number of bits (bytes) which can be transferred within one second.
What is Transfer Time in SRAM IC
Transfer time is defined as the amount of time needed for a data bit to pass through all stages within an SRAM IC.
This data bit will be written into memory, read out from memory, or both during that period of time.
The transfer time is determined by how long it takes for information to be transferred from one stage to another within an SRAM IC.
What quality standards are used in SRAM ICs?
Before you buy an SRAM IC from any manufacturer, ensure that you verify its quality standard.
These standards include:
-DESC: This standard defines the minimum specs required by the manufacturer and industry to give the product a certain classification.
-ESD: This is a standard that specifies what level of protection the device should have against Electrostatic Discharges.
-VCC: This is a standard that defines the voltage at which the SRAM IC should operate.
-JEDEC: This is a standard that defines specific tests that are performed on all SRAM ICs before they are released for sale.
How do I test the quality of an SRAM IC?
To ensure that you have the right product, it will be prudent to test a sample of the IC that you have just bought.
There are various testing methods that you can do on the IC.
One of them is the integrity test.
This is done by taking a small sample of the IC and comparing it to a reference.
This is done in order to ensure that the IC is not damaged.
Another test is the endurance test.
This test determines how long the SRAM IC can work before it stops working.
This may be because of a chip failure or a device malfunctioning.
The last test that you can do on an SRAM IC is the defect scan test.
This test determines if there are any defects in the SRAM ICs that you have just purchased from any manufacturer.
These tests will help you determine if you have gotten a good deal when buying any brand of this IC from any manufacturer in the market today.
Choosing SRAM IC distributor in China
If you’re in the market for an SRAM IC, it is important to make sure you choose the right distributor.
The right distributor will not only sell you the exact SRAM IC that you need, but they will also make sure that it is delivered to you on time and that you were charged correctly.
Here are a few things that you should keep in mind when choosing an SRAM IC distributor:
– What types of SRAM IC do they sell? Make sure you are choosing an SRAM IC distributor that sells the exact type of SRAM you need for your project.
– Do they have reviews? It is important to review the distributor of your choice before you purchase from them.
Make sure that you are purchasing from a reputable company that has a positive track record.
– Do they have a warranty? Some distributors offer a warranty for the parts
Once you analyze these factors, you will definitely end up with the right SRAM IC distributor.
Otherwise, we at ICRFQ are always ready to help you make the right purchase. We are a reliable supplier and distributor of SRAM ICs in China.
If you want to find more Electronic Components Distributors, please check out the following articles:
Electronic Components Distributors In the USA
Electronic Components Distributors In UK
Electronic Components Distributors In China
Electronic Components Distributors In India
Electronic Components Distributors In Singapore
Electronic Components Distributors In Malaysia
Electronic Components Distributors In Vietnam
Electronic Components Distributors In South Korea
- Everything You Need to Know About 555 Timer IC - December 4, 2023
- The Role of Electronic Distributors in the Evolution of Electric Vehicles - December 4, 2023
- IC Chips in IoT: Powering the Internet of Things Revolution - December 4, 2023
