The Different Types Of Computer Memory
Among the least understood aspects of a computer’s operating system and function has to do with memory. Many people assume that their computer only has one sort and that it has limitless space available. When their computer begins to run sluggishly or not at all, many are surprised to learn that the trouble is the system’s memory and it's simple to fix. Before you are forced to learn the hard way about your computer’s memory, we've provided a brief outline of the different types of memory and their roles.
Fast, powerful CPUs need quick and easy access to enormous quantities of data in order to maximize their performance. If the CPU can't get to the data it requires, it literally halts and waits for it. Modern CPUs running at speeds of about 1 gigahertz can run through massive quantities of data -- potentially billions of bytes per second. The problem that computer designers confront is that memory that can keep up with a 1-gigahertz CPU is exceedingly expensive -- much more expensive than anyone can afford in large quantities. Computer designers have solved the cost problem by "tiering" memory -- using expensive memory in small quantities and then backing it up with larger quantities of less costly memory.
There are different types of computer memory designated to store different types of data. They also have varied capabilities and specialties when it comes to storing essential information inside the computer. The best known computer memory is the RAM, also known as Random Access Memory. It's called random access because any stored data can be accessed directly if you know the precise row and column that intersect a certain memory cell. In this type of computer memory, data can be accessed in any order. RAM’s exact opposite is called SAM or Serial Access Memory, which stores data in a series of memory cells that can only be accessed in order. It works very much like a cassette tape where you have to go through other memory cells before accessing the data that you're seeking.
The Differences Between RAM and ROM
Other types of computer memory include the ROM or Read Only Memory. ROM is an integrated circuit already programmed with precise data that can't be altered or changed, hence the name “Read Only”. There is also another type of computer memory called Virtual Memory. This type of memory is a common element in most operating systems and desktops. It helps the computers RAM to be freed up with inactive applications to make way for loading current applications being used. It works merely by checking for data stored in RAM not being used recently and have it stored in the computer’s hard disk, thereby freeing useful space in RAM for loading other applications. A virtual memory will make a computer believe that it has nearly unlimited RAM inside it.
Understanding Cache Memory
Another type of computer memory that has made computers process tasks faster is what is known as cache memory. Caches are configured to relieve this bottleneck by making the data used most often by the CPU instantly available. This is achieved by establishing a small amount of memory, known as primary or level 1 cache, right into the CPU. Level 1 cache is very small, normally ranging between 2 kilobytes (KB) and 64 KB. The secondary or level 2 cache usually resides on a memory card situated near the CPU. The level 2 cache has a direct connection to the CPU. A dedicated integrated circuit on the motherboard, the L2 controller, governs the use of the level 2 cache by the CPU. Depending on the CPU, the size of the level 2 cache ranges from 256 KB to 2 megabytes (MB). In most systems, data required by the CPU is accessed from the cache roughly 95 percent of the time, greatly reducing the overhead required when the CPU has to wait for data from the main memory.
Beyond operating system needs, the amount of RAM necessary depends on the applications to be run. For instance, heavy graphics, real time video, and such need more RAM to keep matters from slowing to a crawl or halt. Typically, off-the-rack machines come with 4 to 8MB, more than adequate for a general purpose computer.
Static Storage Memory
As for static memory, you don't have to be very old to recall buying a computer without a hard drive, then later installing a 20MB hard drive, unable to conceive of ever needing more storage than that. Today, a 250GB hard drive is popular; however, many new computers are in the 100 to 200GB range. And you may require all of that GB and then some.
With improved handling of memory, reduced access times, and lower cost have conspired to make larger amounts of RAM practical. Which in turn has granted programmers free rein to add more bells and whistles. This also helps programmers to become more creative in writing programs that require more RAM. There is reason to think that this trend will continue.
Although computers are used by many people, they are still intricate machines with many functions the average user may not understand nor care to decode. One of the basic things all computers must have is memory. Even if you don't desire to be a "techie," you may find it useful to have a general understanding of how your computer's memory works.
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