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Computer memory is crucial for storing and retrieving data, with primary memory (like RAM) being fast and volatile, while secondary memory (like hard drives) is slower but persistent. The document discusses various types of memory, including ROM, RAM, and cache memory, as well as memory management techniques like segmentation and paging. Understanding the hierarchy and characteristics of different memory types is essential for optimizing computer performance.
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
3 views14 pages

Fit Presentation(Class)

Computer memory is crucial for storing and retrieving data, with primary memory (like RAM) being fast and volatile, while secondary memory (like hard drives) is slower but persistent. The document discusses various types of memory, including ROM, RAM, and cache memory, as well as memory management techniques like segmentation and paging. Understanding the hierarchy and characteristics of different memory types is essential for optimizing computer performance.
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Introduction to

Computer Memory

Computer memory is essential for storing and retrieving data


and instructions. It's a critical component that enables
computers to function.
By Peeyush Tiwari
Difference Between Primary and Secondary
Memory
Primary Memory Secondary Memory

Also known as main memory, it's the computer's Stores data persistently, even when the computer is
primary working memory. It's fast, volatile, and off. It's slower but less expensive than primary
directly accessible by the CPU. Examples include memory. Examples include hard drives, SSDs, and
RAM (Random Access Memory). flash drives.
Importance of Memory in Computing
1 Program Execution 2 Multitasking
Memory stores program instructions and data Allows multiple programs to run simultaneously
for the CPU to access. by allocating memory to each.

3 Performance 4 Data Storage


Faster memory speeds up program execution Memory temporarily stores data while it is
and improves overall computer performance. being used by applications.
Read-Only Memory (ROM) and its Types
1 ROM (Read-Only Memory) 2 PROM (Programmable ROM)
Non-volatile memory containing pre-programmed data and A type of ROM that can be programmed once, typically by
instructions that cannot be altered by the user. It's the manufacturer. It's used for storing specific firmware or
essential for booting up the computer. bootloaders.

3 EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM) 4 EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable


ROM)
A ROM that can be erased using ultraviolet light and then
reprogrammed. It's used for applications requiring A ROM that can be erased and reprogrammed
occasional updates. electronically, making it more flexible than EPROM. It's
used in devices requiring frequent updates, like flash
drives.
RAM(RANDOM ACCESS
MEMORY)

RAM stores the data which the user currently uses or as we say it stores the data
temporary in it. RAM needs power or electricity to work, when the computer power is
turned off then all the data in it will be erased automatically.
Random Access Memory
(RAM) and its Types
DRAM (Dynamic RAM) SRAM (Static RAM)
A faster and more expensive
The most common type of type of RAM that holds data
RAM, it's volatile and requires without refreshing. It's used in
periodic refresh to retain data. situations requiring high speed
It's used in most computers and low latency, like CPU
due to its cost-effectiveness. caches.

DDR (Double Data Rate)


A type of DRAM that transfers data twice per clock cycle, increasing
data transfer rates. There are several DDR generations, each with
increasing speed and capacity.
Cache Memory
CPU Cache
A small, fast memory located directly within the CPU. It stores
frequently accessed data and instructions, improving performance.

L1 Cache
The smallest and fastest level of cache, it's directly integrated with
the CPU core.

L2 Cache
Larger and slower than L1 cache, it's usually shared by multiple CPU cores.

L3 Cache
The largest and slowest level of cache, it's shared by all CPU cores
on the same processor.
 A memory unit is a collection of storage cells/words together with
associated circuits need to transfer data/information in and out of
storage.

 MEMORY HEIRARCHY

Memory hierarchy refers to a structured
 arrangement of different types of
 memory storage in a computer system,
 organized by their speed, cost, and size.
 The hierarchy is designed to balance
 Performance and cost by using various
 types of memory, each optimized for specific roles.
Memory Hierarchy
Level Speed Capacity Cost

Registers Fastest Smallest Most Expensive

L1 Cache Fast Small Expensive

L2 Cache Moderate Medium Moderate

L3 Cache Slower Larger Less Expensive

Main Memory Slowest Largest Least Expensive


(RAM)

Secondary Very Slow Very Large Least Expensive


Storage
Volatile and Non-Volatile
Memory

Volatile Memory Non-Volatile Memory


Data is lost when the power is Data persists even when the
turned off. Examples include power is off. Examples
RAM and cache memory. include ROM, hard drives,
SSDs, and flash drives.
Memory Addressing and
Access
1 Physical Address
The actual address assigned to a memory location on the
physical memory chip.

2 Logical Address
The address used by the CPU to access memory. It's
translated to a physical address by the memory
management unit.

3 Memory Access
The process of reading or writing data to a specific
memory location. It involves specifying the address and
the data to be accessed.
Memory Management Techniques

Segmentation Paging
Dividing memory into logical segments, each with a Dividing memory into fixed-size blocks called pages.
unique address space. It allows for better It allows for efficient memory allocation and prevents
organization and protection of memory. fragmentation.
Conclusion and Key
Takeaways
Computer memory plays a critical role in computer
performance. Understanding the different types of memory
and their characteristics is essential for effective system
design and optimization.
THANK YOU

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