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Lecture 1.3.3 (Types of Memory)

The document discusses various types of computer memory, categorizing them into primary, secondary, and cache memory. It explains the characteristics and functions of RAM, ROM, and their subtypes, as well as the role of secondary memory devices like hard disks and USB drives. Additionally, it highlights the importance of different memory types in a computer system for efficient data storage and retrieval.

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5 views

Lecture 1.3.3 (Types of Memory)

The document discusses various types of computer memory, categorizing them into primary, secondary, and cache memory. It explains the characteristics and functions of RAM, ROM, and their subtypes, as well as the role of secondary memory devices like hard disks and USB drives. Additionally, it highlights the importance of different memory types in a computer system for efficient data storage and retrieval.

Uploaded by

lovepkaur001
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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University Institute of Engineering

Department of Computer Science & Engineering

COMPUTER ORGANIZATION & ARCHITECTURE


(23CST-204/23ITT-204)

ER. SHIKHA ATWAL


E11186

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

BE-CSE
TYPES OF MEMORY

Memory is major part of computers that categories into several types. Memory is
best storage part to the computer users to save information, programs and etc. The
computer memory offer several kinds of storage media some of them can store data
temporarily and some them can store permanently. Memory consists of instructions
and the data saved into computer through Central Processing Unit (CPU).

1. Primary Memory

Also known as main memory in the computer, it communicates directly with the
CPU, cache and auxiliary memory. It allows immediate access from temporary
memory slots or other storage locations. This type of computer memory keeps data
and programs when the process is active to use them.
When a program or data is activated for execution, the processor loads instructions
from the secondary memory into the main memory and then starts execution. It is a
volatile memory due to which any unsaved data is lost when a power cut occurs.
Primary memory is of two types: RAM and ROM.

1.1 RAM
RAM is hardware that temporarily stores data and programs. It is the faster part of
the main memory which can be directly accessed by the CPU. It reads and writes
programs until the computer is switched on. RAM is of two types: DRAM and
SRAM.
 DRAM (Dynamic Random-Access Memory): It is a type of RAM that is
used for dynamic data storage. Every cell in DRAM consists of one-bit
information. A cell is composed of a transistor and a capacitor. This capacitor
and transistor are extremely small in size. The capacitor needs a continuous
refresh to retain information since it is volatile.
 SRAM (Static Random-Access Memory): This type of RAM stores static
data in memory which remains active until there is a power supply. Same sized
SRAM chip holds less data than DRAM. Unlike DRAM, it does not require a
continuous refresh.
1.2 ROM
Read-Only Memory (ROM) is a permanent storage type. This is a type of
read-only memory that only reads the stored information, but it does not have the
capability to modify or write. Since it is a non-volatile type of memory in
computer, the information stays even after a power cut or when the system has
been shut down.
ROM is of the following five types:
 MROM (Mask Read Only Memory): It is the oldest ROM whose data is
pre- configured via integrated circuit manufacture during the time of
manufacturing. It has become obsolete so it is not used anywhere in today's world.
Due to this pre-configuration, the user cannot change the instruction stored within
the MROM chip. It cannot be modified, reprogrammed, or erased later.
 PROM (Programmable Read Only
Memory): It is a digital ROM which
only once allows writing any
information or program. This is
done using a special PROM
programmer or burner device.

 FlashROM: This type of ROM can


be programmed or written in smaller
units called sectors or block. It is
used for transferring data between
computer and digital devices.
 EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory): In this type of ROM,
data can be erased as well as reprogrammed only once. It can store data for a
minimum of 10-20 years. To erase and reprogram EPROM, the user needs to pass
UV light for 40 minutes. Post this, the data can be recreated.
 EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM): It is an
electrically erasable and programmable ROM. This allows data to be erased using
a high-voltage electrical charge. After this, it can be reprogrammed up to
thousands of times.
2. Secondary Memory
It is a permanent type of memory in computer that holds a large amount of
data. This is an external memory that represents different storage media on which
data and programs can be saved for long term. It is not directly accessible by the
CPU and is available as external devices such as CDs, DVDs and USBs. They are
cheaper than primary memory but slower than primary memory.
 Hard disk: It is a type of permanent computer memory that stores programs, files
and data. It is stored on the motherboard of the computer that does not lose data
even when there is a power outage or when the system has been switched off.
 Compact Disc (CD): It is an optical disk storage device that stores different types
of data, such as audio, video, files, and other information. CD uses light to read
and write data from CDs.
 Pen Drive: This portable device is a type of secondary memory in computer that
is used for permanently storing data. It is also known as a USB flash drive that
stores and transfers.
3. Cache Memory
This small-sized chip-based memory in computer lies between the main memory and
CPU. It is very close to the chip of CPU. The aim of this type of computer memory
is to enhance the performance of the CPU. It is a high-performance and temporary
type of memory that reduces the access time of data from main memory. Every
instruction and data that is often used by the CPU is stored within Cache memory.
Cache memory is of three types: L1, L2, and L3 cache which will discussed in detail
in later chapters.
Importance of Different Types of Memory in Computer

• Different types of computer memory are essential for the computer system
since, without it, the system cannot perform even basic tasks.
• In a computer system, memory stores different types of data, such as audio,
video, documents, images, etc.
• This data can be retrieved as and when required.
• The CPU selects memory cells for reading and writing data based on the task
that the user wants the computer to accomplish.
• There are different memory types in computers to suit the device’s needs.
References

Reference Books:
 J.P. Hayes, “Computer Architecture and Organization”, Third Edition.
 Mano, M., “Computer System Architecture”, Third Edition, Prentice Hall.
 Stallings, W., “Computer Organization and Architecture”, Eighth Edition,
Pearson Education.

Text Books:
 Carpinelli J.D,” Computer systems organization &Architecture”, Fourth
Edition, Addison Wesley.
 Patterson and Hennessy, “Computer Architecture”, Fifth Edition Morgaon
Kauffman.
Other References

 https://www.studytonight.com/computer-architecture/memory-organization
 https://www.ics.p.lodz.pl/~dpuchala/CompArch/Lecture_6.pdf
 https://www.javatpoint.com/rom

Video References

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGAMvn4vV40
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LI7gAVkxjAs

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