Definition

parameter RAM (PRAM or parameter random access memory)

Part of the Hardware glossary:

PRAM (parameter RAM or parameter random access memory) is a special battery-powered form of random access memory in certain Macintosh computers where vital system information such as the date and time are stored. PRAM also contains computer configuration information, such as what's connected to each port on the computer. Because PRAM is powered by an internal battery, the information isn't lost when you turn the computer off as it is with regular RAM.

Next Steps

PRAM occasionally gets corrupted as the result of an application failure and needs to be zap ped or restored. The procedure of "zapping the PRAM" is easily located by searching for it on major search engines. However, be aware that it may not apply to more recent Apple computers or operating systems. We suggest contacting Apple to find out the right procedure for your particular system.

This was last updated in March 2011
Posted by: Margaret Rouse

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