What is PRAM?

Depending on how far back you go in computer lore, you can find more than one definition of PRAM. The first is a Macintosh-only kind of internal computer memory. The second is more modern and, actually, still experimental. PRAM in Mac land stands for Parameter random access memory (RAM), which is a kind of non-volatile RAM (NVRAM). PRAM contains a suite of very important information, including settings for a computer's startup disk and startup volume, time zone, and speaker volume. Previous versions of the Mac Operating System stored display and network settings in the PRAM. Mac OS X has eliminated that function, so users who have problems with network or display settings must reset PRAM. The problem with resetting PRAM is that the procedure restores the machine to its factory defaults. Users who like to personalize their machines down to the last detail will find themselves spending quality time recreating all manner of settings. Still, the alternative is worse. PRAM on a Macintosh ...  more

hey- I was just wondering what the pram is and how do you "zap" it- it seems to be a common way to fix some problems...  more