MEMORY OPERATION OF COMPUTER

Memory is the working space used by the computer to hold the program that is currently running, along with the data it needs and to run programs and process data. It is said to be the most delicate and vital part of computer system and it is basically divided into two:

1. Primary Memory: This is the portion of computer system which handles the system commands; temporary storage of data, booting and coordination of the incoming data etc. it is also divided into two major types viz:

i. Random Access Memory (ROM): Random Access Memory (RAM) is the temporary memory a computer uses to store data and process information. The more RAM a computer has, the more data a computer can manipulate. RAM works only when the computer is on, its contents are cleared when it is turned off.

 

ii. Read Only Memory (ROM): This type of memory can be read from or written to by a computer or other devices. Information stored in RAM is lost when the computer is turned off. It is a permanently inbuilt form of memory that handles all system files, and works with RAM and CPU to enhance the processing of data in the system. Information in the ROM cannot be changed or deleted, but can only be read on the screen.

2. Secondary Memory:This is another memory computer recognizes, it comprises of storage devices that are used to store data permanently. They act as a backup. (Auxiliary)  memory to permanently store data from the computer’s RAM. Examples are:

 

i. Hard Disk: This is an inbuilt storage device that is used to store data permanently. Hard Disk can store a large amount of files, although it is visible but non-removable. It is represented by letter C.

 

ii. Floppy Disk:  This is a storage device that is also very useful in backing up files. It is called Floppy Disk because it is very delicate and fragile. It has a dimension of 3.5 inches; it can accommodate about .44 Mega Bytes of files. Floppy Disk is removable, transferable and visible. A Floppy Disk is represented by letter A.

 

iii. Compact Disk:         This is the new and modern form of storage device although it is not naturally made for storing files like Floppy Disk; rather they contain information already stored for use. They are predominantly used to store software, music and videos. Information in CD cannot be deleted, thus it is called CD-ROM. A CD can store about hundreds of millions of files more than a Floppy Disk; it is represented by letter D. it is sometimes represented by letters E, F etc but it’s always the last letter in a computer and it carries a symbol signifying CD.

 

 

NB:   The above storage devices are normally slotted in a hardware known as DRIVE. That is, for one to make use of them, they must be slotted in their drives except in the case of Hard Disk. Hard Disk is together with its drive, so there’s no need for any additional drive.

 

BOOTING THE SYSTEM

The process of starting or resetting a computer When computer is first turned on; it is called COLD BOOTING or reset/restart, it is referred to as WARM BOOTING. You can press Ctrl + Alt + Del to Warm Boot your computer during the booting, the computer runs the software that loads and starts the computers operating system which prepares it for use.