Understanding Different Types of Computer Memory: Cache, Primary (Main), and Secondary, Study notes of Computer Science

Download Understanding Different Types of Computer Memory: Cache, Primary (Main), and Secondary and more Study notes Computer Science in PDF only on Docsity! 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