15/03/2025
Computer memory is categorized based on speed, volatility, and purpose. The main types include:
1. Primary Memory (Volatile)
RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage for active processes.
DRAM (Dynamic RAM): Needs refreshing, used in main memory.
SRAM (Static RAM): Faster and more expensive, used in cache memory.
Cache Memory: Ultra-fast memory between RAM and CPU for quick access.
Registers: Small, fastest memory inside the CPU.
2. Secondary Memory (Non-Volatile)
HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Magnetic storage, slower but large capacity.
SSD (Solid State Drive): Faster, uses flash memory.
Optical Discs: CD, DVD, Blu-ray for data storage.
Flash Drives (USB, SD cards): Portable non-volatile memory.
3. Tertiary Memory
Magnetic Tapes: Used for backups and archives.
4. Virtual Memory
Uses part of the hard drive as RAM when physical RAM is full.
5. ROM (Read-Only Memory)
Stores firmware and boot instructions.
Types: PROM, EPROM, EEPROM (programmable & erasable ROM).