Computer Memory
Computer Memory
A computer memory is just like a human brain. It is used to store data and instructions. Computer memory is the storage space in computer where data is to be processed and instructions required for processing are stored. memory is divided into large number of small parts called cells. Each location or cell has a unique address which varies from zero to memory size minus one.
Computer storage can be divided into primary memory, secondary memory and cache memory. Primary memory or main memory in the computer provides fast access memory. The processor can access it directly for data and instructions. Frequently used files and programs are stored in the primary memory. Since primary storage is expensive, only a limited amount can be stored therein. Cache memory is another memory device. CPU can access it much faster than main memory. But it is very expensive. The secondary memory is used for bulk storage of data and instructions. Large files and databases are stored on secondary storage devices. These devices include hard disk, optical disks, magnetic tapes and floppy disks. Data and instructions from secondary storage devices are transferred to main memory and cache memory in small measures for the CPU to access them for processing.
