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Memory

What is memory?

Memory, also known as primary storage, is used by a computer to store data and instructions.

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Memory is quick because the CPU can access it directly.

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Memory is important because it allows the computer to multi-task.

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Types of Memory

RAM

RAM (1).png

(Random Access Memory)

  1. RAM is volatile (this means that when power is lost, the data is deleted).
     

  2. Every program that is being run by the computer (such as Google Chrome, Spotify or Microsoft Word) is stored in RAM.
     

  3. RAM is made up of a large number of storage locations, each can be identified by a unique address.

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ROM

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(Read Only Memory)

  1. ROM is non-volatile (this means that data is saved, even when the power is off).  
     

  2. The start-up instructions (for when a computer is turned on) are stored in ROM.

     

  3. ROM is read-only, which means that it cannot be edited or changed.

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Cache Memory

  1. Cache memory is fast to access because it is very close to the CPU. 
     

  2. Cache memory stores data that needs to be accessed very frequently.
     

  3. Cache memory is very expensive, so there is only a small amount in most computers.

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How can you make a computer faster?

If you are trying to run too many programs at the same time, ​there might not be enough space in RAM.

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Try closing applications and processes that you do not need. Persistently slow computers could be helped by increasing the amount of RAM on the motherboard.

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