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Problem Set On Memory Interfacing Part 2

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4 views

Problem Set On Memory Interfacing Part 2

Uploaded by

2223923
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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1.

Memory in Microcomputers
(a) Why is RAM much larger than ROM in a microcomputer?

RAM is larger because it is used for storing data and programs that are actively being
used by the CPU. This memory needs to be large to accommodate the operating system,
applications, and current processes. ROM, on the other hand, contains firmware and is
generally small as it only needs to store the essential boot and diagnostic routines.

(b) Is it possible for a microcomputer to have only ROM?

No, a microcomputer cannot operate with only ROM because ROM is read-only and
cannot be used to store dynamic data that changes during operation. The CPU needs
RAM to perform computations and temporarily store data.

(c) Is it possible for a microcomputer to have only RAM?

No, a microcomputer cannot function with only RAM because RAM is volatile; it loses its
data when the power is turned off. ROM is essential for storing the firmware required to
boot the system.

2. Memory Classifications
(a) Read-only memory vs. Read-write memory

Read-only memory (ROM) is non-volatile and can only be read; data is written during
manufacturing or programming but not modified. Read-write memory (RAM) is volatile
and can be read and written during operation.

(b) Volatile memory vs. Non-volatile memory


Volatile memory loses its data when power is turned off (e.g., RAM). Non-volatile memory
retains data without power (e.g., ROM, flash memory).

(c) Random-access memory vs. Sequential access memory

Random-access memory (RAM) allows data to be read or written in any order quickly.
Sequential access memory (e.g., magnetic tape) reads and writes data in a specific order,
which is slower.

(d) Main memory vs. Secondary memory vs. Archival memory

Main memory (RAM) is fast and used for active processes. Secondary memory (e.g., hard
drives, SSDs) is slower but used for storing large amounts of data. Archival memory (e.g.,
tape drives) is used for long-term storage and backup.

3. Storing Data in SRAM and DRAM


SRAM (Static RAM): Data is stored using flip-flops, which hold a '1' or '0' as long as power
is supplied, providing fast access times.

DRAM (Dynamic RAM): Data is stored in capacitors that must be periodically refreshed.
Each capacitor represents a bit ('1' or '0') based on its charge.

4. Storing/Programming Data in ROM Types


(a) Fusible-link PROM: Data is programmed by blowing fuses, permanently creating a
pattern of '1's and '0's.

(b) UV-EPROM: Data is written electrically and can be erased by exposing the chip to UV
light, allowing reprogramming.
(c) Mask programmable ROM: Data is written during the manufacturing process through
a photomask, making it permanent.

(d) EEPROM: Data is written and erased electrically, allowing for multiple reprogramming
cycles.

5. Calculating Minimum Access Time


Given:

Memory chip access time: 150 ns


Address buffer propagation delay: 25 ns
Data bus buffer propagation delay: 30 ns
Minimum Access Time = Memory access time + Address buffer delay + Data bus buffer
delay

Minimum Access Time=150 ns+25 ns+30 ns=205 ns

The microprocessor must operate within this time to avoid WAIT states.

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