Computer – Memory
A memory is just like a human brain. It is used to store data and
instructions. Computer memory is the storage space in the
computer, where data is to be processed and instructions required
for processing are stored. The memory is divided into large number
of small parts called cells. Each location or cell has a unique
address.
Memory is primarily of three types −
Cache Memory
Primary Memory/Main Memory
Secondary Memory
Cache Memory
Cache memory is a very high speed semiconductor memory
which can speed up the CPU. It acts as a buffer between the CPU
and the main memory. It is used to hold those parts of data and
program which are most frequently used by the CPU. The parts of
data and programs are transferred from the disk to cache
memory by the operating system, from where the CPU can access
them.
Advantages
The advantages of cache memory are as follows −
Cache memory is faster than main memory.
It consumes less access time as compared to main memory.
It stores the program that can be executed within a short
period of time.
It stores data for temporary use.
Disadvantages
The disadvantages of cache memory are as follows −
Cache memory has limited capacity.
It is very expensive.
Primary Memory (Main Memory)
Primary memory holds only those data and instructions on which
the computer is currently working. It has a limited capacity and
