A memory module for a computer-based system. The memory module includes at least one memory device that requires periodic refresh signals to maintain data and is mounted on the memory module, and a circuit mounted on the memory module and configured to retain data stored on the memory device when the computer-based system loses power. In a separate embodiment, a control circuit is configured to logically detach at least one memory device from at least one memory controller when a computer-based system loses power, and retain data stored on the memory device when the computer-based system loses power.