Cache memory is a high-speed, small-sized type of computer memory that plays a crucial role in improving CPU (Central Processing Unit) performance. It serves as a bridge between the CPU and the slower, larger main memory (RAM). The primary purpose of cache memory is to reduce the time it takes for the CPU to access frequently used and instructions, thereby enhancing overall system performance. Cache memory is static RAM (SRAM) that stores its in flip-flop circuits. A cache hit occurs when the CPU requests a piece of data or instruction, and that data is found in the cache memory. On the other hand, a cache miss occurs when the CPU requests data or instructions that are not present in the cache memory, necessitating fetching the data from a slower memory hierarchy level, typically from the main memory (RAM).
RAM (Random Access Memory) is a type of computer memory that serves as the primary workspace for actively used data and instructions within a computer system. It utilizes dynamic RAM (DRAM), a form of memory that stores data in . RAM is much faster than other storage devices like hard drives and SSDs, providing the CPU with rapid access to data and instructions, enabling quick data retrieval and manipulation. Without RAM, the computer would have to load data directly from the HDD, which has significantly slower speeds, leading to bottlenecks in that could slow down the operation of the computer. When you power on your computer, the computer's BIOS or UEFI firmware initializes hardware components and loads the operating system from non-volatile storage into RAM.
In cases where physical RAM is limited, modern operating systems use a technique called . They allocate a portion of the storage device as virtual RAM, moving less frequently used data to this virtual memory when physical RAM becomes scarce. This process, known as paging or , enables efficient memory management. RAM offers random access, meaning any part of the memory can be accessed quickly with nearly the same speed, which is important for efficient data and manipulation. However, RAM is volatile memory, meaning that it loses its data when the computer is powered off or restarted, making it unsuitable for long-term data storage. Additionally, RAM has limited capacity compared to secondary storage devices, and its cost can become significant when aiming for larger capacities and higher speeds.
Keywords
retrieval | data | swapping | volatile | volatile | virtual memory | capacitors | processing | data |
