DRAM maintenance — the periodic recharging of dynamic RAM storage cells is known as _____.

Introduction / Context:
Dynamic RAM stores each bit as charge on a tiny capacitor. Because capacitors leak over time, stored charge decays, jeopardizing data integrity. To preserve data, systems must periodically restore the charge on each cell—this maintenance process is fundamental to DRAM operation and system memory controllers.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The blank asks for the term describing periodic cell recharging.
• We consider commodity DRAM and embedded DRAM alike.
• Timing windows (e.g., 64 ms) are typical, but the exact interval varies by device.

Concept / Approach:
“Refreshing” is the standardized term. The memory controller issues refresh commands that cycle through all rows, reading and immediately restoring each cell’s charge. Address multiplexing is a separate design choice to reduce pin count; bootstrapping relates to circuit techniques; “flashing” refers to Flash memory operations; “scrubbing” usually means background error checking/correction, not the fundamental DRAM charge restore process.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
DRAM datasheets specify refresh rates and include commands like REFRESH or AUTO REFRESH; power-down self-refresh modes keep data with minimal power.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming “refresh” equals “read”; although reads restore charge on accessed rows, dedicated refresh cycles are still required to cover all rows within the retention window.

Final Answer:
Refreshing