Different Types of Computer Memory

Computer memory refers to either of two types of Computer storage. Volatile memory refers to RAM that needs to be constantly refreshed to be retained. Static memory is permanent storage that is retained even after the Computer is turned off.

Different Types of Computer Memory

Different Types of Computer Memory

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Different Types of Computer Memory

Different Types of Computer Memory

RAM or Random Access Memory is volatile memory that is erased when the power goes off. Program instructions and data held in RAM can be accessed and saved much more quickly than that held in permanent storage. Therefore, files needed to run a program and data that is being processed are held in RAM while they are in use. The amount of RAM you need depends at least partly on the operating system( a program that directs all the basic functions of a Computer such as accepting commands from a keyboard, displaying input on a monitor screen, and controlling disk drives and some other peripheral devices) you select as well as the type of programs you intend to run.

When you boot up the computer, in other words turn it on, the operating system or part of it is loaded into the RAM along with a variety of utilities required for normal operation. Therefore, programs and data are loaded into what's left. As little as 2MB(megabytes) total will suffice for most DOS( disk operating system-a proprietary program that controls all the basic functions of a computer) programs. In a Windows 3.x environMent, 4MB is the recomMended minimum, but 8MB runs far better.

Beyond operating system demands, the amount of RAM required depends on the applications to be run. For example, heavy graphics, real time video, and such need more RAM to keep things from slowing to a crawl or stop. Generally, off-the-rack machines come with 8 to 16MB, more than enough for a general purpose computer.

With improved handling of memory, reduced access times, and lower cost have conspired to make larger amounts of RAM practical. Which in turn has given programmers free rein to add more bells and whistles. This also helps programmers to become more creative in writing programs that require more RAM. There is reason to believe that this trend will continue.

As for static memory, you don't have to be very old to remember buying a computer without a hard drive, then later installing a 20MB hard drive, unable to imagine ever needing more storage than that. Today, a 250MB hard drive is popular; however, most new computers are in the 500 to 1000MB( 1 gigabyte) range. And you may need all of that MB and then some.

Computer Memory fact #1: For the faint of heart, when programs or data files are called up from permanent storage, they are not moved, they are merely copied. If the power goes off during processing, programs generally are safe. The only loss will be data that was changed since the last save.

Computer Memory fact #2: If you decided to get a MAC computer, don't worry. The MAC computer comes loaded with a proprietary operating system and the proper amount of RAM to run it.

Different Types of Computer Memory

Different Types of Human Memory

The process whereby memories are forged into the Mental system is a remarkable one that is often misunderstood. But by studying the nature of memory, we gain a higher insight in to the intricate workings of this most vital aspect of the human brain. Some compare the human memory to a tape recorder-yet it is not so simple. While memory can serve as a retainer for key data that we want to "re-play" over and over again, it is a more dynamic and complex mechanism. In addition to storing information, it also allows us to recall feelings, sensations, images, as well as carry out basic functions such as talking.

Different Types of Human Memory

Different Types of Human Memory

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Different Types of Human Memory

Different Types of Human Memory

Since human memory is such a complex system, it cannot be nailed down to an exact science. In fact, cognitive psychologists working in thefield of memory often have disagreeMents. What has been established is that there are three main types of human memory -sensory, short term and long term-plus a fourth related faculty called the working memory.

When we speak of "sensory memory," we are referring to the few split seconds that follows the initial perception of an object. If you are able to briefly look at something and immediately memorize its details, then that is an instance of sensory memory. Usually, in these cases, when you are only able to see something for a few split seconds, you might feel like you saw a lot more than you are able to describe.

Some of the data that is perceived in a sensory memory will subsequently be transferred to a short term> memory. We call short term memory the ability to recall something from several seconds to a minute ago.

There is also a type of memory that is referred to as working memory. It can be viewed as a form of short term memory, in that it refers to the limited store that is needed in order for certain Mental tasks to be performed. Whereas short term memory is rooted in duration, working memory is defined by purpose. Baddeley's Model of Working Memory defines three components to this type of memory -the verbal store, the visuo-spatial sketchpad, and the central executive, which determines control and rehearsal.

Finally, there is long term memory. Unlike short term and sensory memories, which disappear in abrief amount of time, long term refers to memories that can be stored for a period of up to several years. Psychologists disagree on how long term memory works. Some argue that a long term memory remains in the brain forever, but this is impossible to prove, as there has never been a human being who has lived forever!

While it was once thought that there was no real determining factor between what made in short term memory and long term one, research has since established that the brain contains numerous systems of memory and that information is constantly being transferred among these various systems. Hence, the ongoing research in to the mysterious nature of how memory works.

Different Types of Human Memory