Primary memory

This is a basic concept in computer science

The primary memory stores the program instructions and the data in binary machine code. The Control Unit deals with the instructions and the Arithmetic and Logic unit handles calculations and comparisons with the data. Data and instructions are moved by buses.

There are two types of memory in primary memory (also known as the Immediate Access Store ) of the computer, RAM and ROM:

• RAM is Random Access Memory which loses its contents when the computer is switched off (it is volatile ). This memory can be written to, instructions and data can be loaded into it.

• ROM , or Read Only Memory is non-volatile and is used to store programs permanently (the start-up or " boot " instructions, for example), the computer cannot store anything in this type of memory.

When the programs and data files (known as the software ) are not in RAM, they are stored on secondary memory (also known as backing store ) such as tapes or discs. The tape or disc drives and any input and output devices connected to the CPU are known collectively as peripherals .

RAM – Random Access Memory

• The RAM is where programs, instructions, values are stored at runtime
• The RAM can be accessed a lot faster than the hard disk
• All information is lost when the power is turned off
• Allows storage and random access of the data
• Each program instruction & piece of data in the RAM has a unique address

ROM – Read Only Memory

• Can not be written to easily or at all (often times once only, then never again)
• In modern PCs usually used for firmware in CPU, Graphics card, hard disks, etc.
• Many ROM modules are replaced with Flash modules nowadays (ex. BIOS, firmware modules) to allow easier updating
• In devices like keyboards, etc. which aren’t designed for firmware updates ROM might still be used
• Stores code for interrupter

Other resources

• This is an excellent PDF by the Dartford Grammar School Computer Science Department
• A excellent resource by the BBC to understand volatile and non-volatile storage

Do you understand this topic?

• Identify the need for persistent storage

Do you have an advanced understanding about this topic?

• Is a disk-based swap file the same thing as persistent storage?

Provide an answer from a number of possibilities. Recognize and state briefly a distinguishing fact or feature.