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Computer Memory


Computer memory is a term that people usually use to refer to RAM (Random Access Memory). However, there are many types of memory that your computer uses. The computer uses this memory in a specific order from fasted to slowest.

  1. Cache
  2. RAM
  3. Virtual Memory
  4. Storage Devices

This allows the computer to operate at its fastest speeds. We'll take a look at each of these to find out how they work and what they do.


Cache

CPU Cache

If you have been looking at CPU's lately, or even computer systems, you may have seen the terms Cache, Level 2 cache, or L2 cache being used when describing the CPU. There are actually many forms of caching including hardware caching, software caching and more. Caching is a way of temporarily storing data for quick access. We'll take a look here at what caching does and how it works so that you can understand its importance in determining the speed of your processor.


Computer Cache Details

 

Computer RAM

RAM is short for Random Access Memory. Random, because the memory can be accessed in any order, meaning that anytime the RAM is accessed, it doesn't matter where the information is, it will come back in the same amount of time. This is the opposite of other computer memory types such as static memory, that need to be accessed in a specific order. This article will take a look at the different types of RAM and how to determine how much and what kind you will need to meet your computer memory needs.

Computer RAM Details

 

Virtual Memory

As the amount of computer RAM continues to increase on the average computer, virtual memory gets used less and less. However, for the foreseeable future, it will continue to be used. Virtual memory is what is created and used when you run out of RAM. Most computers today have around 1GB of RAM, which may seem like a lot, but it can fill up quickly when you have multiple applications open. So, rather than your computer telling you to close an application when it runs out of RAM, it will simply start using virtual memory. This article will take a look at how virtual memory works, and how to optimize it on your computer.


Virtual Memory Detail

 

Flash Memory

Flash memory comes in a variety of different types. Flash memory is used for easy, fast information storage in all types of devices.
  • Cameras
  • Video Game Consoles
  • USB Flash Memory
  • Compact Flash Memory Card

Flash memory is more like a hard drive than it is like RAM. It allows permanent storage of data in a solid state device. Solid state meaning that there are no moving parts, it's all electronic. We'll take a look here at how flash memory works, and what it's all used for.


Flash Memory Details

 

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