Main Memory:
Core of
Computing Power
A Detailed Look into Computer
Organization and Architecture
Presented by:
1. K.Veera Babu-237Z1A6653
2. K.Archana -237Z1A6654
3. K.Adithya -237Z1A6655
Understanding
Main Memory’s
Role
Foundation of Speed and Efficiency in
Computing
Definition: Main memory stores data and
instructions required by the CPU for processing.
Importance: Directly impacts data access speed
and system performance. Topics Covered:
Types, characteristics, access methods,
technological advancements.
Types of Main
Memory
Exploring RAM, ROM, and Their Unique Roles
Primary Memory: Includes RAM (Random Access
Memory) and ROM (Read-Only Memory), directly
accessible by the CPU. Secondary Memory:
Devices like hard drives and SSDs, for long-term
storage.
Essential Characteristics
of Main Memory
Direct Access, Volatility, and
Performance Factors Direct Access: CPU
can directly retrieve data from main memory,
unlike slower secondary storage. Volatility:
RAM is volatile (data is lost when power is
off), while ROM is non-volatile (data is
retained). Speed and Cost: RAM is fast and
costly, whereas secondary memory is slower
but more economical.
RAM – The
Workhorse of Main
Memory
Exploring Dynamic vs. Static
RAM Definition: RAM temporarily
stores data for quick CPU access.
Types: DRAM (Dynamic RAM):
Needs regular refreshing, used in
main system memory. SRAM
(Static RAM): Faster and used for
cache, doesn’t require refreshing.
Applications: Essential for
multitasking, fast responses in apps,
and operating system operations.
ROM – Permanent
Data Storage
Types and Applications in
System
SetupContent:Definition: ROM
stores essential boot-up and system
setup instructions.
Types:
PROM: Programmable once.
EPROM: Erasable and
reprogrammable using UV light.
EEPROM: Electrically erasable,
often used in BIOS.
Applications: Found in firmware,
embedded systems, and device
configurations.
Memory Hierarchy –
Balancing Speed and
Storage
Optimizing Data Access Definition:
Organizes storage for speed, cost, and
capacity balance. Structure: Levels include
CPU registers, cache, main memory, and
secondary storage. Purpose: Keeps frequently
accessed data in faster memory, and less
accessed data in slower storage.
Cache Memory – Boosting
Processing Speed
Enhancing CPU Performance with
Quick Access Storage Definition: Small,
fast memory near the CPU for frequently
accessed data. Purpose: Reduces data
retrieval time, enhancing system speed.
Levels: L1: Closest to CPU, extremely fast.
L2: Larger but slightly slower. L3: Shared
across CPU cores, balancing size and speed.
Methods of
Memory Access
Sequential, Direct, Random,
and Associative Techniques
Sequential Access: Data accessed
in a specific order, as in tape
storage. Direct Access: Specific
data accessed directly, as in hard
drives. Random Access: Direct
access to any data point, typical of
RAM. Associative Access: Data
retrieved by content, commonly
used in cache
Advanced Memory
Management
Techniques
Paging, Segmentation, and
Virtual Memory Explained
Paging: Divides memory into fixed-
size pages to reduce fragmentation.
Segmentation: Divides memory
into variable-size segments,
matching program structure.
Virtual Memory: Extends main
memory using disk space as
“virtual” RAM for larger programs.
The Future of
Main Memory
Technology
Next-Gen RAM and Emerging
Trend Trends: Focus on faster,
larger, and energy-efficient memory.
Examples: DDR4, DDR5: New RAM
generations with enhanced power
efficiency. LPDDR: Low-power RAM,
especially for mobile devices.
Future Technologies: MRAM
(Magnetoresistive RAM) and PRAM
(Phase-Change RAM) for non-
volatility, speed, and durability.
Concluding
Insights on
Main Memory
Key Takeaways and Future
Perspective Summary: Recap on
memory types, characteristics,
access methods, and technology
advancements. Importance of
Main Memory: Vital for system
efficiency. Future Outlook: Mention
the upcoming breakthroughs in
memory technology.
References and
Further Learning
Books: “Computer Organization and
Architecture” by William Stallings.
Websites: Include reputable tutorial
sites and tech articles. Research
Papers: List any relevant journal
articles.
