Know about Computer Memory Classification in detail

Computer Memory is just like a human brain which is used to store data and instructions. Computer memory is divided into very small cells. The cell has a unique location and each location has a permanent address which varies from 0 to 65535. There are basically three types of memories used:

  1. Cache Memory
  2. Primary Memory/Main Memory
  3. Secondary Memory
Computer Memory Classification in detail
Classification of Computer Memory

Computer Memory Classification in detail

Cache Memory

Cache memory is a very high-speed memory which speeds up the CPU working. It acts as a buffer between CPU and the main memory. The regularly used data’s and program files which are used by CPU are stored in the Cache memory. CPU can access the data whenever required. When the Operating system starts it transfer some important files and data from disk to cache memory from where CPU can access them easily.

Computer Memory Classification in detail - cache memory
Classification of Computer Memory

Advantages of Cache memory

The advantages of cache memory are as follows:

  • Cache memory very fast than the main memory. 
  • Time consumed to access the data is also faster.
  • Programs that can be executed within a short period of time are stored here.
  • It stores data for temporary use only.

Disadvantages of Cache memory

  • The main and only disadvantages of cache memory are it has limited capacity and is very expensive.

Primary Memory (Main Memory)

Primary memory has all the files and data information or instructions on which your computer is running now.  When the computer is switched off the data stored in the primary memory is lost forever. The capacity of this primary memory is limited. The semiconductor device is used in primary memory, which is slow than the registers. Two subcategories of Main memory are RAM and ROM.

Classification of Computer Memory
Classification of Computer Memory

Characteristics of Main Memory

  • These are semiconductor memories
  • Usually volatile memory.
  • Data is lost in case power is switched off.
  • It is known as the main memory.
  • It is a working memory of the computer.Faster than secondary memories.
  • A computer cannot run without primary memory.

Secondary Memory

We know this memory as an external memory. It is slower than main memory. These are used for storing data and Information permanently on it. CPU access the data of secondary memory by some input-output routines. Contents of secondary memories are first transferred to main memory, and then CPU can access it. Example of secondary memory: DVD , disk, CD-ROM etc.

Also read: Top 5 Things That Take Up Space on Your Computer

Classification of Computer Memory
Classification of Computer Memory

Characteristic of Secondary Memory

  • It is used for storage of data in a computer.
  • The computer may run without secondary memory.
  • Slower than primary memories.
  • These are magnetic and optical memories
  • It is known as backup memory.
  • It is a non-volatile memory.
  • Data is permanently stored even if power is switched off.

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