Volatile memory is the temporary random access memory (RAM) in a computer. This type of memory holds the program and operating system files that a user has active, but it does not keep its contents when the user shuts off the computer. RAM is considerably faster than the permanent storage devices a computer has, so it works well for its purpose. The temporary nature of volatile memory is a disadvantage, however, because a user will lose any unsaved data if his or her computer loses power unexpectedly or if the computer crashes. Show All computers and many other devices use volatile memory, because it is useful for quickly storing and accessing operating system and program files and holds the information in the memory as long as the computer has power. When a user opens a program and starts to type a document, the program and its data run in the computer's RAM until the user saves the file to the hard drive, CD or floppy disk for permanent storage. This describes non-volatile memory. This includes hard drives, flash memory and read-only memory. Volatile and non-volatile memory work together to play a critical part in a computer's data storage and transfers. A program and its data run in the computer's RAM until the user saves the file to a storage device, such as a floppy disk.Volatile memory comes in various speeds and form factors that are used for both desktop and laptop computers. The larger memory sticks are used in desktop computers while more compact memory is reserved for laptop computers and for some all-in-one models. Double data rate (DDR) memory is relatively fast, is supported by most newer motherboards, and is available in form factors that fit both laptops and desktops. Some systems take advantage of dual-channel technology that noticeably improves the computer's speed and performance. In this type of configuration, a set of two sticks of the same kind of DDR memory is installed so both RAM sticks can work together effectively. There are some downsides to temporary memory, but its benefits outweigh the negative aspects. A major concern is the data loss that can occur if there's a power outage, unexpected system reboot or power supply failure, but there are uninterruptible power supplies that can be used to lessen this threat. Another way to prevent data loss when one works on a document is to save the document as often as possible or to use a program that automatically saves changes to the hard drive. A user can lose unsaved data when a computer loses power or crashes due to the temporary nature of volatile memory.Types of MemoryRandom Access Memory (RAM) is one of the two types of main memory found in computers. General purpose computers usually contain a large amount of RAM. The features of RAM are:
Read Only Memory (ROM) is another type of main memory found in computers. It comes on a small, factory made chip in the motherboard. Features of ROM include:
Flash MemoryFlash memory is usually based on a technology called Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM). EEPROM can be used to create many flash memory devices:
Properties of Flash Memory Flash memory is a type of memory technology that can be used to create primary or secondary storage. It is commonly used to make Read-Only Memory (ROM), and Solid State Drives (SSDs).
Virtual MemoryVirtual Memory is a technique where we use secondary storage as if it were RAM.
How Virtual Memory Works Virtual Memory allows us to access more memory than we have by setting aside some secondary storage space to act as extra memory.
Join Seneca to get 250+ free exam board specfic A Level, GCSE, KS3 & KS2 online courses. What happens to volatile memory when a computer shuts down?The operating system (OS) loads the volatile memory. The system stores its data and computer programs that the CPU may need in real-time within the volatile memory, and the data is automatically deleted as soon as the system shuts down.
When a computer is turned off does it lose its contents?Volatile memory loses its contents when the power is turned off.
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