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Computer System Part 2 Notes

The document outlines the types of memory systems, distinguishing between primary (volatile) and secondary (non-volatile) memory, including RAM, cache, HDD, SSD, and optical storage. It discusses memory management concepts such as virtual memory, paging, and garbage collection, as well as RAM specifications like capacity, speed, and latency. Additionally, it highlights the impact of memory performance on system responsiveness and program management.

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Mildred Clarke
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11 views2 pages

Computer System Part 2 Notes

The document outlines the types of memory systems, distinguishing between primary (volatile) and secondary (non-volatile) memory, including RAM, cache, HDD, SSD, and optical storage. It discusses memory management concepts such as virtual memory, paging, and garbage collection, as well as RAM specifications like capacity, speed, and latency. Additionally, it highlights the impact of memory performance on system responsiveness and program management.

Uploaded by

Mildred Clarke
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Part 2: Memory Systems

Types of Memory

Primary Memory (Volatile)

 RAM (Random Access Memory): Main working memory, loses data when power is off

o DRAM: Dynamic RAM, needs constant refreshing, used for main memory

o SRAM: Static RAM, faster but more expensive, used for cache

 Cache Memory: Extremely fast memory close to CPU

 Registers: Fastest memory locations within the CPU

Secondary Memory (Non-volatile)

 Hard Disk Drives (HDD): Magnetic storage, high capacity, slower access

 Solid State Drives (SSD): Flash memory, faster than HDD, more expensive per GB

 Optical Storage: CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs

 Flash Storage: USB drives, memory cards

Memory Hierarchy

From fastest to slowest: Registers → L1 Cache → L2 Cache → L3 Cache → RAM → Storage


Devices

Memory Management Concepts

 Virtual Memory: Uses hard drive space as extended RAM when physical memory is full

 Paging: Divides memory into fixed-size blocks for efficient management

 Memory Allocation: How programs request and use memory space

 Garbage Collection: Automatic memory cleanup in some programming languages

RAM Specifications

 Capacity: Amount of data that can be stored (measured in GB)

 Speed: Data transfer rate (measured in MHz/MT/s)

 Latency: Delay between request and data delivery (measured in nanoseconds)

 Form Factor: Physical size and connector type (DIMM, SO-DIMM)


Memory Performance Impact

 More RAM allows running more programs simultaneously

 Faster RAM improves overall system responsiveness

 Insufficient RAM leads to increased virtual memory usage and slower performance

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