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Memory Hierarchy

The document discusses different types of computer memory. It describes the memory hierarchy from fastest to slowest as cache, main memory, and auxiliary memory. Main memory is typically RAM and can include both static and dynamic RAM. Read-only memory (ROM) is also used and includes masked ROM, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. Nonvolatile memories like ROM retain data when power is removed unlike volatile RAM. Auxiliary memory provides bulk storage and includes hard disks, floppy disks, CD-ROMs, and USB drives.

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31 views

Memory Hierarchy

The document discusses different types of computer memory. It describes the memory hierarchy from fastest to slowest as cache, main memory, and auxiliary memory. Main memory is typically RAM and can include both static and dynamic RAM. Read-only memory (ROM) is also used and includes masked ROM, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. Nonvolatile memories like ROM retain data when power is removed unlike volatile RAM. Auxiliary memory provides bulk storage and includes hard disks, floppy disks, CD-ROMs, and USB drives.

Uploaded by

sinmayank31
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Topics to be discussed….

 Memory Hierarchy
 Main Memory
 Random-Access Memory (RAM)
 Read only memory(ROM)
 Nonvolatile Memories
 Auxiliary Memory
MEMORY HIERARCHY

1. Memory hierarchy is about arranging different


kinds of storage devices in a computer based on
their size, cost and access speed, and the roles
they play in application processing

2. The memory hierarchy system consists of all


storage devices employed in a computer system
from the slow by high- capacity auxiliary
memory to a relatively faster main memory, to
an even smaller and faster cache memory.
Memory Hierarchy

1. The main memory occupies a central position by being


able to communicate directly with the CPU and with
auxiliary memory devices through an I/O processor.
2. A special very-high-speed memory called cache is
used to increase the speed of processing by making
current programs and data available to the CPU at a
rapid rate

Auxiliary memory I/O processor Main Memory

Cache

CPU
Main Memory
1. Most of the main memory in a general
purpose computer is made up of RAM
integrated circuits chips, but a portion of the
memory may be constructed with ROM
chips.
2. RAM– Random Access memory
 Integrated RAM are available in two possible
operating modes, Static and Dynamic.
3. ROM– Read Only memory
Random-Access Memory (RAM)

> Static RAM (SRAM)


- SRAM (static RAM) is a type of random access memory (RAM) that
retains data bits in its memory as long as power is being supplied.

- Each cell stores bit with a six-transistor circuit.


- Retains value indefinitely, as long as it is kept powered. >
Dynamic RAM (DRAM)
- Each cell stores bit with a capacitor and transistor.
- Value must be refreshed every 10 - 100 ms.
- Slower and cheaper than SRAM.
Read-Only Memory (ROM)

 ROM is used for storing programs that are


PERMENANTLY resident in the computer and
for tables of constants that do not change in
value once the production of the computer is
completed.
 The ROM portion of main memory is needed
for storing an initial program called bootstrap
loader, witch is to start the computer
software operating when power is turned off.
Read-Only Memory (ROM)

 Used by PCs to store the instructions that form


their Basic Input/Output System (BIOS).
 When power is removed from a ROM chip, the
information is not lost, so it is a nonvolatile type
of memory.
 It has a OE (Output Enable) specific control pin.
Both OE and CE must be enabled in order for the
ROM to output data.
 The circuit doesn’t change the content of the
ROM.
ROM Types

 Masked ROM – programmed with its data when the


chip is fabricated.
 PROM – PROM or programmable ROM is a computer
memory chip that can be programmed once after it is created.
Once the PROM is programmed, the information written is
permanent and cannot be erased or deleted.
 EPROM – EPROM is memory that does not lose its data when
the power supply is cut off. The data can be erased and the
chip reprogrammed by shinig the ultraviolet(UV).
 EEPROM – EEPROM is a user - modifiable ROM it can be
erased and reprogrammed repeatedly by applyling an
electrical voltage that id higher than normal.
Nonvolatile Memories
 DRAM and SRAM are volatile memories.
- Lose information if powered off.
 Nonvolatile memories retain value even if powered off.
- Generic name is read-only memory (ROM).
- Misleading because some ROMs can be read and modified.
 Types of ROMs :
- Programmable ROM (PROM)
- Eraseable programmable ROM (EPROM)
- Electrically eraseable PROM (EEPROM)
- Flash memory.
 Firmware
- Program stored in a ROM
> Boot time code, BIOS (basic input/ouput system)
> graphics cards, disk controllers.
Auxiliary Memory

 The main memory construction is costly. Therefore, it has


to be limited in size. The main memory is used to store only
those instructions and data which are to be used
immediately. However, a computer has to store a large
amount of information. The bulk of information is stored in
the auxiliary memory. This is also called backing storageor
secondary storage. They include hard disk, floppy disks,
CD-ROM, USB flash drives, etc.
 When the electricity supply to the computer is off, all data
stored in the primary storage is destroyed. On the other
hand, this is not true for secondary storage. The data
stored in secondary storage can be stored for the desired
time.

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