What is Computer Memory in Computer?

The data and instructions that are entered into the computer using input devices are to be stored inside the Computer Memory.

Like we humans have a brain to store data and information,

In the same way, computer has memory to store data and information.

Here is the chart that will show the classification of different types of computer memory.

Computer memory can be mainly divided into two parts –

A) Primary Memory

B) Secondary Memory

What is Computer Memory in Computer?

A) Primary Memory:

1. Primary memory is the internal memory of the computer. 
2. It is also called as the main memory of the computer. 
3. It is the built-in memory designed to store data and instructions while the computer is working.  
4. The data stored in internal memory is erased when the computer is turned OFF. 

Primary memory is of two types: 

RAM and ROM 

a) RAM:  

• The full form of RAM is Random Access Memory.  
• It stores data and instructions only when the computer is turned on.  
• RAM is only a temporary memory.  
• The information stored in RAM is lost when the computer is switched off.  So, it is also known as volatile memory. 

Two types of RAM are: 

SRAM and DRAM 

1. SRAM  

• SRAM stands for Static Random Access Memory. 
• It requires a constant power supply, which means this type of memory which consumes more power. 

2. DRAM  

• DRAM stands for Dynamic Random Access Memory. 
• It offers reduced power consumption because the information is stored in the capacitor. 

What is Computer Memory in Computer?

Second Type of Primary memory is – 

b) ROM  

• ROM stands for Read Only Memory.  
• Neither the stored information can be changed nor any fresh information can be written in the ROM.  
• The information (data) cannot be lost or deleted when we switch OFF the computer.  
• ROM holds data permanently. So, it is known as non-volatile memory. 

Three types of ROM are:  

1.  PROM  
2. EPROM  
3. EEPROM  

Let’s have a look one by one. 

1. PROM 

• PROM stands for Programmable read-only memory.  
• It can be programmed by user. Once the program or data is written in PROM chip, it cannot be changed. 

Second type of ROM is 

2. EPROM  

• EPROM stands for Erasable Programmable read only memory. 
• It can be reprogrammed. The data written in EPROM chip can be erased by using special devices and ultraviolet rays. 

Third  type of ROM is 

 3. EEPROM  

• EEPROM stands for Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory.  
• This kind of ROM can be written or changed with the help of electrical devices. So data stored in this type of ROM chip can be easily modified. 

What is Computer Memory in Computer?

2. Secondary Memory:

Sometimes there is so much information that it cannot be saved in the primary storage devices. In that case, data can be saved in secondary storage devices. This is called secondary memory, also called auxiliary memory or external memory. A few examples of secondary storage devices are floppy disks, CDs, DVDs, pen drives and hard disks. These are also known as storage devices. 

i) Hard Disk:

Hard Disk is installed inside the CPU cabinet. It has a large storage capacity. It is a magnetic disk on which the data can be stored. Inside the hard disk, a circular disk is present which is made up of polished steel. The hard disk is made up of the collection of these disk which are known as platters. The computer starts working for any program after reading the information from the hard disk.

ii) Floppy Disk:

Floppy disk stores very small amount of data. It is used to transfer data from one computer to another. It is also used for storing files or data in safe place.

Floppy is inserted in the floppy drive. Nowadays floppies are not much in use. Instead, it has been replaced by CDs and DVDs. Floppy disk is available in two size. One is 3.5 inches and the other is 5.25 inches. The storage capacity of 3.5 inch disk is 1.44 MB and 5.25 inch disk can store up to 1.2 MB data.

iii) CD:

• CD stands Compact Disk.
• CD can store more data than floppy disk.
• The storage capacity of CD is up to 720 MB.
• CD stores data permanently.
• CD is inserted from outside the CPU.

The following three types of CDs are available:

1. CD-ROM (Compact Disk-Read Only Memory)
2. CD-R (Compact Disc-Recordable)
3. CD-RW (Compact Disc-Rewritable)

iv) DVD:

DVD stands for Digital Versatile Disc. DVD is similar to CD. The difference is in their storage capacities. DVD can store more data than CD. The storage capacity of DVD is up to 4.7 GB. DVD stores the data permanently. You can store movies, songs, games, etc. inside the DVD. The basic type of DVD is 12 cm in diameter and single-sided.

v) Pen Drive:

Pen Drive is also known as flash drive. This is a small device used for transferring data or file from one computer to another. The most important feature of pen drive is that we can carry our data and important files in it anywhere.

It comes in various capacities ranging from 512 MB to 32 GB.

vi) Memory Card:

SD/MMC means Secure Digital and Multimedia Card. Storage capacity of these memory cards ranges from 8 MB to 32 GB. These are also used in digital cameras and mobile phones.

What is Computer Memory in Computer?

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