Computer Memory Unit

Lecture 3
 Memory

Computer memory is the storage space in the computer,

where data is to be processed and instructions required for
processing are stored. It is used to store data and
instructions. The memory is divided into large number of
small parts called cells. Each location or cell has a unique
address. For example, if the computer has 64k words, then
this memory unit has 64 * 1024 = 65536 memory locations.
The address of these locations varies from 0 to 65535.
Classification
Home Task

Find out the differences between primary memory and secondary

memory
Measuring Memory
The primary or internal storage unit is made up of several small
storage locations called cells. Each of these cells can store a fixed
number of bits called word length. Each cell has a unique number
assigned to it called the address of the cell and it is used to
identify the cells.

You know that data in computer is stored in the form of 0s and 1s.
Each of these digits is known as a bit. A collection of 8 bits
constitutes a byte. Each cell of memory contains one character or
1 byte of data. So the capacity is defined in terms of bytes or
words. However higher units of memory are Kilobytes, Megabytes,
Gigabytes etc. 1 Kilobyte is equal to 1024 bytes. Thus 64 Kilobyte
(KB) memory is capable of storing 64 × 1024 = 32,768 bytes.
Primary Memory

Primary memory is the memory that is accessed by

the processor directly. It is also known as main
memory or internal memory. It helps in executing
applications that are temporarily stored in a specific
memory location. Primary memory is of two types –
RAM and ROM.
Random Access Memory (RAM)

Random Access Memory (RAM) is the type of

memory in which it is possible to randomly select
and use any location of the memory directly to
store and retrieve data. It is also called as
read/write memory. Since it is volatile, the data
from RAM is lost as soon as the power to the
computer is switched off.
Random Access Memory (RAM)

Static RAM Dynamic RAM

• SRAM is faster compared to • DRAM provides slow access

DRAM. speeds.

• It does not have a refreshing • It has a refreshing unit.

unit.
• These are cheaper.
• These are expensive.
• In this bit is stored in the form
• In this bit are stored in voltage of electric energy.
form.
• DRAM has lower data transfer
• SRAM has higher data transfer rate
rate
• DRAM is used in general
• SRAM is used in high purpose applications
performance applications
Read Only Memory (ROM)

This is another type of primary memory from which data can

only be read. We cannot write or modify data once written on to
the ROM. Also this type of primary memory is not volatile. The
storage of program and data in the ROM is permanent. The ROM
stores some standard processing programs supplied by the
manufacturers to operate our computer. The Basic Input Output
System (BIOS) is stored in the ROM. It examines and initializes
the start up process of the computer and also checks various
peripheral devices attached to the PC when the computer is
turned ON.
Read Only Memory (ROM)

Programmable Read Only Erasable Programmable Electrically Erasable

Memory (PROM): Read Only Memory Programmable Read Only
(EPROM) : Memory(EEPROM):
it is not possible to modify or
erase programs stored in ROM, This type of ROM overcomes the The only difference is that unlike
but it is possible for you to store problem of PROM and ROM. EPROM, electrical signals are used
your program in PROM chip. Once EPROM chip can be programmed to erase the contents of EEPROM.
the programs are written it cannot time and again by erasing the Also, this type of ROM need not be
be changed. Also the program is information stored earlier in it. completely erased. Partial
not lost even if power is switched Information stored in EPROM can modification of ROM is possible.
off. be erased by exposing it to
ultraviolet light. This memory can
be reprogrammed using a special
programming facility.
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. The contents of
secondary memories are first transferred to the main
memory, and then the CPU can access it. For example,
disk, CD-ROM, DVD, etc.

Find out more info about Magnetic Tape, Magnetic Disk,

Floopy Disk, HDD.
Cache Memory
To increase the performance of CPU, a small memory chip is attached between CPU and main memory whose
access time is very close to the processing speed of CPU. This memory is called as Cache memory. It is used to
store programs or data currently being executed or data that is being frequently used by the CPU. Fast access of
these data and instructions increases the overall execution speed of the software. It is very expensive memory
and so has to be used in a limited amount. Cache memory is also known as CPU memory. It is either integrated
directly with the CPU chip or is placed separately on the motherboard. As the microprocessor processes data, it
first looks in the cache memory. If the required data or instructions are found there, it does not have to spend
more time in reading data from other storage devices that have slower access time. Hence the processing speed
increases.
MEMORY ACCESSING MODES
Direct Access or Random Access:

It is the type of accessing mode in which the value to be stored in a particular memory location is obtained
directly. Since the data can be accessed in any order that is why this type of memory access is also known as
random access of memory. This type of memory access is generally fast and more flexible. The type to be stored
in memory is obtained directly by retrieving it from another memory location. This type of memory access is
based on the principle that any piece of data can be returned in a constant time, regardless of its physical
location and previous access. The web uses direct memory access mode.
MEMORY ACCESSING MODES
Sequential Access memory:

It is the type of memory in which the stored data is read in sequence. That means if you want to
display the fourth record, the reading will start from the first record and then move to second, third
and then fourth record. This type of memory access can be time consuming and hence slow,
especially when the data to be read is towards the end. Sequential access devices are generally a
form of magnetic storage. Hard disks, CD-ROMs and magnetic tapes use sequential access of memory.
That’s all for today….see you in next class!!