Computer Memory - Aisha Isiaq

 

What is Computer Memory?

Computer memory is just like the human brain. It is used to store data/information and instructions. It is a data storage unit or a data storage device where data is to be processed and instructions required for processing are stored. It can store both the input and output can be stored here.

Memory is volatile, which means that data is only kept temporarily in memory. Data saved in volatile memory is automatically destroyed when a computing device is turned off. When you save a file, it is sent to secondary memory for storage.

Types of Computer Memory

In general, computer memory is of three types:

1.     Primary memory

2.     Secondary memory

3.     Cache memory

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1. Primary Memory

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