What are some of the key requirements that need to be considered while selecting an external memory? Different applications have different requirements from an expansion memory. Here are some of the parameters that designers consider while selecting an external RAM. While some applications put emphasis on higher density and high-throughput, others put emphasis on low-pin-count and smaller size. Battery powered consumer applications, on the other hand, require expansion memory options that have lowest power consumption. Hence engineers look for an expansion memory with a small package, low pin count, and adequate bandwidth to meet the system requirements. Traditionally, DRAM was the memory of choice for expansion needs for mid- to high-densities, but unfortunately, they fall short on many parameters that are of importance.