Lesson 6 of 10 – Memory of Computer
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Memory of Computer

Computer memory is the part of a computer that stores data, instructions, and information. Some memory is temporary, while some memory is permanent.

Memory helps the computer: store data, run programs, save files, and work quickly.

What is Computer Memory?

Computer memory refers to the storage areas inside a computer system where data and instructions are kept. The CPU uses memory to process information and complete tasks.

Types of Computer Memory

Computer memory is mainly divided into Primary Memory and Secondary Memory. Other important memory types include Cache Memory, Registers, and Virtual Memory.

Primary Memory (Main Memory)

Primary memory is directly accessed by the CPU. It is fast, but its storage capacity is limited. It is used while the computer is working.

  • RAM
  • ROM
Secondary Memory

Secondary memory is used for permanent storage. It stores data even when the power is turned off. It has larger capacity than primary memory.

  • HDD
  • SSD
  • CD/DVD
  • Pen Drive
  • Memory Card
  • Cloud Storage

Primary Memory

RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM is temporary memory. It stores data only when the computer is ON. RAM is volatile, which means the data is lost when the power goes off.

  • Temporary memory
  • Used for running programs
  • Fast memory
Types of RAM
  • SRAM: Faster and more expensive
  • DRAM: Slower and cheaper
ROM (Read Only Memory)

ROM is permanent memory. It stores startup instructions and important system data. ROM is non-volatile, so the data remains saved even after the power is turned off.

  • Permanent memory
  • Stores startup data such as BIOS
  • Non-volatile memory
Types of ROM
  • PROM: Programmable Read Only Memory
  • EPROM: Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
  • EEPROM: Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory

Secondary Memory

Storage Devices

Secondary memory is used to store files, software, pictures, videos, and other information permanently. It has much more capacity than RAM.

  • HDD
  • SSD
  • CD/DVD
  • Pen Drive
  • Memory Card
  • Cloud Storage

Other Types of Memory

Cache Memory

Cache memory is a very fast memory that stores frequently used data. It helps the CPU work faster. Cache memory is small but expensive.

Registers

Registers are the fastest memory inside the CPU. They store temporary data and instructions that the CPU is currently using.

Virtual Memory

Virtual memory uses part of the hard disk as extra RAM. It helps the computer run large programs when RAM is not enough.

💡 Remember
RAM is temporary memory and ROM is permanent memory. Cache and registers make the computer faster, while secondary memory stores data for the long term.

🧠 Quiz

Which memory is volatile?