It is also known as the main memory of the computer system. It is used to store data and programs or
instructions during computer operations. It uses semiconductor technology and
hence is commonly called semiconductor memory. Primary memory is of two types:
I.
RAM (Random Access
Memory): It is a volatile
memory. Volatile memory stores information based on the power supply. If the
power supply fails/ interrupted/stopped, all the data and information on this
memory will be lost. RAM is used for booting up or start the computer. It
temporarily stores programs/data which has to be executed by the processor.
RAM is of two types:
S RAM (Static RAM) and D RAM
(Dynamic RAM)
I.
ROM (Read Only Memory): It is a non-volatile memory. This read-only memory
is modifiable, Non-volatile memory stores information even when there is a
power supply failed/ interrupted/stopped. ROM is used to store information that
is used to operate the system. As its name refers to read-only memory, we can
only read the programs and data that is stored on it. It contains some
electronic fuses that can be programmed for a piece of specific information.
The information stored in the ROM in binary format.
It is also known as permanent memory.
ROM is of four types:
MROM (Masked ROM), PROM (Programmable ROM), EPROM (Erasable Programmable
Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
2. Secondary
Memory
It is also known as auxiliary memory and
backup memory. It is a non-volatile memory and
used to store a large amount of data or information. The data or information
stored in secondary memory is permanent, and it is slower than primary memory.
A CPU cannot access secondary memory directly. The data/information from the
auxiliary memory is first transferred to the main memory, and then the CPU can
access it.
Computer system can run without secondary memory. In secondary memory,
data is stored permanently even when the power is off.
Types of Secondary
Memory
Magnetic
Tapes, Magnetic Disks, and Optical Disks
3. Cache Memory
It is a type of high-speed semiconductor
memory that can help the CPU run faster. Between the CPU and the main memory,
it serves as a buffer. It is used to store the data and programs that the CPU
uses the most frequently.
WHY COMPUTER SYSTEM NEEDS MEMORY TO OPERATE
A Computer needs memory to operate because it
provides a temporary storage space for data, instructions and applications.
Here are some essential reasons:
1.
Temporary Storage
2.
Instruction Execution
3.
Data Processing
4.
Application Running
5.
Performance Optimization
6.
Multitasking
7.
Operating System Functionality
WHEN CAN THE COMPUTER SYSTEM ACESSS THE COMPUTER MEMORY
Computer memory can be
accessed when a program is opened and loaded into the primary memory. This is
done to allow the program to communicate with the processor more quickly. When
a program is opened, it is moved from secondary storage to primary memory. The
primary memory is the immediate-access memory, which is used to store program
code and data. The CPU sends data to the RAM or caches to handle routines in a
logical order. Once a program is closed, all of its data is removed from the
RAM to free up memory for the next program.
HOW DOES COMPUTER MEMORY WORK?
When you open a program, it is loaded from secondary memory into primary
memory, this is because primary storage is accessed more quickly, and the
opened software can connect with the computer’s processor more quickly. The
primary memory is readily accessible from temporary memory slots or other
storage sites.
WHERE ARE THE COMPUTER MEMORY LOCATED
Computer
memory (RAM) is located on the motherboard, which is the main circuit
board inside a computer. The motherboard is the backbone of a computer,
connecting all of its components.
Cache
is located within the CPU or on a separate chip
Type the name of your
folder and press Enter. Then you have created a folder.
