Memory
Temporary instructions and data that are needed for that session
RAM - aka main memory or primary memory We will cover 5 types of computer memory: RAM, Virtual Memory, Registers Cache. YOUR TASK ..........................
To help you learn and understand about memory, I would like you to create a mind map or annotated drawing\diagram. You could do this using online software such as Canva which has a range of brilliant templates to help make your notes really visual. Or you could do using any software you have or use pen and paper and send me a photo. You'll be adding to this throughout this page so don't submit it until the end of the page. |
In computing terms, volatile means that data
is erased when the power goes off. |
Virtual memoryVirtual memory is part of your hard drive. Study the picture --------------->
WHEN WOULD IT BE USED?
WHAT IS THE EFFECT OF HAVING TO USE VIRTUAL MEMORY?
WHY WOULD RAM BE FULL?
WHAT'S THE SOLUTION? In the short-term:
In the long-term:
TASKRead the text above, watch the very short video and then add some information to your diagram or mind map about virtual memory.
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Inside the CPU are a number of memory locations called REGISTERS.
These are extremely fast to access because of their closeness to the CPU. You have probably heard of 32 bit and 64 bit computers or operating systems. A 64-bit processor can hold more data because it has more registers. Find out whether you have a 32 or 64 bit system:
Make up a mnemonic or acronymMnemonics (pronounced NEMONIX) and acronyms are memory techniques to help you remember lists of items.
For example, MRS GREN is often used in Biology to help students remember the 7 life processes. Richard Of York Gave Battle In Vain is used to help remember the colours of the rainbow and the order that they appear in. Cache (pronounced cash)The cache is expensive super-fast memory within the CPU itself. The RAM and the CPU communicate with each other at different speeds. The cache makes up for the difference. It generally holds frequently used data so the CPU isn't slowed down by having to wait for data from RAM.
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Special functionsSome registers have special functions. You can see them marked on the diagram below:
ACC - this is the accumulator. It holds the results of calculations. MDR - Memory Data Register. Holds data to be processed MAR - Memory Address Register. Stores the memory address from which data will be fetched , or the address to which data will be sent and stored. CIR- Current Instruction Register. Holds the instruction currently being processed. PC- Program Counter. Holds the memory address (in RAM) of the next instruction to be fetched. Cache memory is super fast but extremely expensive.
Add some notes or drawings to your mind map/annotated diagram to help you remember what cache and registers are. |
ROM stands for read-only memory.
It is non- volatile meaning it keeps its contents even when the power is turned off. ROM is programmed by the manufacturers. ROM contains the start up instructions for the computer, commonly called the BIOS (Basic Input Output System). We've now covered 5 types of computer memory.
Make sure your mind map or diagram covers all 5. Don't send it yet. Do the revision section below first as you might want to add more detail to your work. Remember: this work you are creating can be used for revision ahead of your GCSEs. |