Static RAM
Static Random Access Memory is a high speed memory. Static RAM is a type of RAM that keeps the data that's inputted, without it having to be inputted over and over again. Static ram is also used for specific applications within the PC, where their strengths outweigh their weaknesses compared to Dynamic Random Access Memory. The disadvantage of static ram is the cost to buy it and also the fact it requires more power then dynamic RAM.
Dynamic RAM Dynamic ram is a type of physical memory used in most personal computers. The term dynamic indicates that the memory must be constantly be refreshed or it will lose its content. Static RAM is faster and less volatile than dynamic RAM, but it requires more power and is more expensive. Dynamic RAM works by using each bit of information and stores it by using a single capacitor, representing data with 1’s and 0’s.
ROM
The ROM chip contains and stores critical programs such as the program that boots the computer. In addition, ROMs are used extensively in calculators and peripheral devices such as laser printers, whose fonts are often stored in ROMs. The BIOS (basic input /output system) is the built –in software that runs an operating system. It can also run the operating system without accessing the programme from the disk drive. The BIOS contains the code which is required to control a number of functions such as the keyboard and hard drive. The BIOS is usually located in the ROM chip this is so the BIOS is away from danger and can’t be damaged by disc failure. When the computer is booted the bios performs the Power-On Self-Test (POST) refers to routines which run immediately after many digital electronic devices are powered on.
Source: Samuel Russell – P1 – Unit 2 – computer systems- South Staffordshire College
LEVEL 1 CACHE
Level 1 cache is also known as the CPU cache. Level 1 cache is based in the CPU its job is to reduce the time taken to access memory. The cache is smaller than RAM it allows copies of data from the most frequently used main memory locations to be stored. If main memory locations are cached it reduces the time to access the data and is always stored in the CPU until cleared.
LEVEL 2 CACHE
Level 2 cache is found on the processor chip rather than in the CPU. This is the main difference between the two levels of cache. Level 2 cache is slower then level 1, when performing instructions level 2 cache is the second place the instruction will come to making it slower then level 1. What makes cache so quick to access is it works on synchronous timing which is based in the computers ALU. Other forms of memory use asynchronous timings which is based on the tick of clock within the computer.
HDD
The function of a hard disk drive is to store and retrieve digital information which is mainly computer data. Almost all computer systems hold a hard drive as this is what your operating systems and other computer systems run off. The OS would retrieve its instructions from the hard drive then perform the action. The
