Types of computer memory

Memory is the most essential part of the computer system, Because any instruction must be store before actual process and the Output much be store somewhere before display on computer display. Hence, we can say without storage unit we can't store even a single piece of information. There are Different types of computer memory.

Types of computer memory

1. Primary Memory/ Internal memory/ Main memory

2. Secondary memory/ External memory/ Auxiliary memory

1. Primary Memory

The primary memory of computer stores data temporarily and permanently. Main memory provides space for store the data and instructions, space for storage intermediate result and space for the final results. 

There are two type of primary memory

1. Read only memory (ROM)

2. Random Access Memory ( RAM)

1. RAM ( Random access memory)

RAM is just like a chip made up  from MOS( Metal Oxide semiconductor). It is read/ write memory where information can be write and read from this memory. All the information stored  temporarily i.e. information retain as long as the computer is connected to the power source. All data and information are lost as power supply disconnected or interrupted.

There are two types of RAM

1. S-RAM (Static RAM)

2. D-RAM (Dynamic RAM)

S-RAM

S-RAM is different from the D-RAM. S-RAM is much faster, expensive, consume less power, and retain data and information as long as power source is connected.

D-RAM

D-RAM is different from the S-RAM. D-RAM is less faster, cheaper, consume high power and lost data sometime even the power source is connected to the computer system.

2. ROM ( Read only memory )  

ROM is a permanent type of memory where all data and instruction remains safe even when computer switched off or power source interrupted. The information on this chip are stored at time of manufacturing. ROM is used almost in all type of electronics device like toys, calculator, watch etc..

Types of ROM

1. P-ROM ( Programmable ROM)

2. EP-ROM ( Erasable Programmable ROM)

3. EEP-ROM ( Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM)

4. Flash ROM

P-ROM

Programmable Real Only Memory allow to record information/program by user, but once programmed this memory can't be changed or re-record stored  information.  For instance: 74S287

EP-ROM

Erasable Programmable ROM is other type chip ROM which can be erase and reprogrammed to record different data and information. 

EP-ROM stored data can be erased by exposing the ultraviolet light about 20 minutes. Data remains safe for years if stored information not deleted manually. For instance: Intel 87C257.  

EEP-ROM 

Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory as it name suggest, this memory chip data can be erase with the help of electric signal. However, this is more costly and easy to load the data. 

Flash Memory

A flash memory is basically a storage device which contains flash memory with an integrated USB (Universal Serial Bus). The advancement in flash memory has developed more.

This allow to write bootable files. It comes in various shape and size with various stylish design. It can be use also as portable storage device. It can be access over mobile phone or computer easily.

Now, you have understand the memory and  it's various different types.  In this article we have discussed about only all different types of primary memory. Further in another article we will see the Secondary memory.