Memory is an
essential elements of computer system memory can be defined as "devices
used to stored data instruction program and processed it inside the computer
system .A memory is just like a human brain. It
is used to store data and instructions. Computer memory is the storage space in
the computer, where data is to be processed and instructions required for
processing are stored.
In other word we can say that "Computer memory is any physical device capable of storing information temporarily or permanently".
Computer
memory is three types:-
1. Cache memory
2. Primary
memory
3. Secondary memory.
1. cache Memory -Cache memory is a very high speed semiconductor memory which can speed up the CPU. It acts as a buffer between the CPU and the main memory. It is used to hold those parts of data and program which are most frequently used by the CPU.
Advantages
The advantages of cache memory are as follows −
- Cache memory is faster
than main memory.
- It consumes less access
time as compared to main memory.
- It stores the program
that can be executed within a short period of time.
- It stores data for
temporary use.
Disadvantages
The disadvantages of cache memory are as follows −
Cache memory has limited
capacity.
It is very expensive.
2. Primary memory:-Primary memory holds only those
data and instructions on which the computer is currently working. It has a
limited capacity and data is lost when power is switched off. It is generally
made up of semiconductor device. These memories are not as fast as registers.
The data and instruction required to be processed resides in the main memory.
Characteristics of Main Memory
- These are semiconductor
memories.
- It is known as the main
memory.
- Usually volatile memory.
- Data is lost in case
power is switched off.
- It is the working memory
of the computer.
- Faster than secondary
memories.
- A computer cannot run
without the primary memory.
3.
Secondary Memory:-This type of memory is also known as external memory or non-volatile. It is
slower than the main memory. These are used for storing data/information
permanently. CPU directly does not access these memories; instead they are
accessed via input-output routines.
Characteristics of Secondary Memory
- These are
magnetic and optical memories.
- It is known
as the backup memory.
- It is a
non-volatile memory.
- Data is
permanently stored even if power is switched off.
- It is used
for storage of data in a computer.
- Computer may
run without the secondary memory.
- Slower than
primary memories.
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