Ch 2: Computer Memory Flashcards
(9 cards)
What is Memory?
An electronic chip with a grid of transistors each of which is turned either on or off
0 = off
1 = on
stores data by holding a value of 1 or 0 in each transistor and reporting it when requested to do so
What is the purpose of Read - only memory (ROM)?
store data permanently and are used to store data that never changes, such as motherboard startup instructions
very quick to read from, but not being updated easily limits its functionality
What is Random - Access Memory (RAM) and its purpose?
RAM is the primary type of memory used in computing devices
RAM is used for temporary storage.
RAM functions as a work area and has three main functions.
People referring to a computer’s memory usually mean its RAM
RAM chips can be easily changed as the computer operates
RAM accepts and holds instructions and data.
RAM supplies data to the CPU for processing and temporarily stores the results.
RAM holds process data until it is sent to more permanent storage for the CPU to find what’s stored.
What is a Memory address?
storage on the RAM
Program instructions and data are placed at this location that the operating system can work with directly rather than having to search from beginning to end
Why is a type of memory referred to as Random Access Memory?
The name locations can be found no matter which part of the RAM they are physically stored in
What are the two types of RAM?
- Dynamic RAM (DRAM)
- Static RAM (SRAM)
What is Dynamic RAM (DRAM)?
requires constant supply of electricity
DRAM in a PC has silicon wafers mounted in ceramic chips
What is Static RAM (SRAM), also called non - volatile RAM?
faster and more expensive than DRAM; does not lose power when power is off
SRAM is not the main memory in PCs, but many devices use it for special purposes such as CPU caches
What are Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMMs)?
Circuit boards on which DRAM chips are mounted
Dual indicates both sides of the motherboard contains chips
