Computer memory is a device that is responsible for storing information. It can be of different types and perform various functions. It depends on what purpose the memory will be used for. The memory device, in addition to storage, provides the transfer of the necessary information.
Kinds
As for the typology, the PC memory can be internal and external. Internal, respectively, is located inside the technical device and is designed to record various information, programs, etc. External is needed for long-term data storage. It does not depend on the state of the computer, as well as on what parameters its internal memory has. The memory device has a complex structure and its own typology.
Inner memory
This type directly depends on the processor and is used to store data and programs that are directly involved in the operation of a technical device. The appeal to this type of memory is very fast. But it has limited capacity. Internal memory devices are divided into subtypes: permanent and random access memory.
The first type is responsible for storing and issuing data. The contents of read-only memory are determined during the manufacture of a technical device. It cannot be changed under normal conditions. Permanent memory stores frequently used data, operating system programs, as well as software that is responsible for testing equipment.
As for the operational type, it occupies most of the internal memory and is responsible for the reception, storage and timely delivery of the necessary information. The RAM device is so fast that the processor practically does not wait for it to read or write.
RAM features
This type plays a big role in the computer, since the processor can execute the program only after it has been loaded into RAM. Such a device, however, has a significant minus. It lies in the fact that as soon as its power is turned off, the RAM is immediately erased. And all data that has not been saved will be lost. Which programs can be run on a PC depends on the amount of RAM. If it is not enough on the computer, then the application will either not start at all, or it will work very slowly.
Other species
In addition to constant and operational, there are other types of memory:
- Cache memory. He is responsible for quick access to RAM and stores copies of certain areas of the operational type that are most often used. This allows you to get the fastest access to the necessary information.
- CMOS-RAM is the part of memory that is responsible for storing PC configuration parameters. This type does not change after disconnecting the device from the power supply.
- Video memory is used to store the image that is displayed on the monitor.
External memory
An external memory device exists in various forms. Their functions and structures are constantly changing and improving. The main external memory device is a hard drive. It is designed for long-term storage of all information that is on a PC. Here is the operating system, almost all software and most user documents.
The main parameters of the hard disk include the following:
- Capacity.
- Disk rotation speed, which determines the speed of access to information and the speed of reading data.
- Cache size, etc.
Hard disk structure and functions
As for the main components of the hard drive, there are four of them:
- Disks.
- The electronic part of the device.
- Spindle.
- Heads for reading and writing.
During recording, the computer sends information to the hard disk in the form of binary bits, each of which is recorded by magnetization as positive or negative.
If the technical device requests information that was previously recorded, the hard drives rotate, and the heads, which are intended for reading or writing, advance to those areas where specific data were recorded. The heads immediately identify the signals as positive or negative and send this data back to the computer. Despite the fact that different parts of the information are located on different parts of the disk, the heads get access to any area they need without problems. This allows you to significantly speed up access to data in comparison with similar functions of the magnetic tape.
What other devices provide memory
A memory device also exists in other variations:
- Floppy disks. They were quite common in the past, but are practically absent today. Provide storage of information of a small volume by modern standards - 1.44-2.88 Mb. The floppy disk itself is placed in a plastic case, which is inserted into a special computer drive. This type of memory storage device is required to be formatted before use, and also kept away from exposure to magnetic fields.
- CD-ROM and CD-RW - a cheap and common option for storing information, which is used today. The volume for recording data here is much larger, and it is more convenient to use them.
- DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD + RW , etc. Multifunctional drives that can record data of various formats: audio, video, documents, etc. They have a fairly large amount of memory - about 4.7-17 GB, which allows you to store such an amount of information that would require several CD-ROMs.
Modern external storage media
Despite the prevalence, CDs and DVDs are increasingly being squeezed out by other technical means that store information.
The device of this typology is represented mainly by flash memory, which exists in various forms:
- Cards that differ in volume and data rate. The memory card device allows you to use it in a wide variety of options, from a personal computer, most often a laptop, and a mobile phone to digital cameras, cameras and other equipment.
- USB flash drive, known as a “flash drive". This device uses a serial interface with a bandwidth of up to 480 Mbps. The keeper himself is inserted into a compact case, which can have any color, shape and material. The advantage of this technical device is also that it can not only be used in the specified quality, but also run music, videos, read and correct documents directly from it, etc.
Computer memory is a complex concept. It consists of several parts - external and internal. Internal refers to permanent, operational, and other types of memory. The external one is represented by a hard disk, as well as portable devices of various formats, sizes, types, data transfer and recording speeds. The characteristics of memory devices can be very different, which is determined by the scope and purpose of their use. The issue of personal computer memory and its capabilities is extremely relevant. Every year there are changes and improvements in this area.