Non Volatile Memory

Nonvolatile chips holds data even when the computer is unplugged. Putting data permanently into this kind of memory is called burning in the data Usually done at the factory. Data in these chips is only for read. Memory is called Read Only Memory ROM.

Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing

ContinueWhen a computer is turned on, ROM contains a set of start up instructions called basic input-output System (BIOS) for a Computer. In addition to booting the machine, BIOS contains another set of routines, which ensures that system is functioning properly and all expected hardware devices are present. This routine is called the Power On Self Test (POST).
Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing

Types of ROM
PROM chips can not be changed. Found on hard devices. Initially blank, uses on manufacturer can write data on it using specially devices. Data on instruction can be written on it only once. If there is any error in writing the instructions, the error can not be removed from PROM. The chip becomes unusable
Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing

EPROM Stands for Erasable Programmable ROM Initially blank User or manufacturer can write data on it using special devices Data or instructions written on it can be erased with special devices using ultraviolet rays

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EEP-ROM Stands for Electronically Erasable PROM User can erase and write instructions with the help of electrical pulses Errors can be erased electronically Contents can be modified easily

Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing

Difference PROM & EPROM EPROM & EEPROM

Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing

Flash Memory
Type of nonvolatile memory store data in form of blocks not bytes Erased or reprogrammed in units of memory called blocks Flash memory gets its name because a block is erased in a single action or flash More faster than RAM More expansive than RAM

Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing

Advantage
Flash memory chips have begun to replace ROM for system information For example PCs BIOS (basic input output system) The sequence of instructions that PC follows during the boot process including the POST By storing this information in the flash memory BIOS information can be updated as needed Flash memory chips are also used to store programs in portable PCs and mobile devices

Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing

memory chips are small and hold significant amount of data Used as a storage media for portable PCs, cell phones digital cameras,MP3 players and other small devices

Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing

Memory speed
Memory speed is measured in MHz Common speeds are 133 MHz for SDRAM 133 MHz for SRAM 400 MHz for DDR-SDRAM 667 MHz for DDR-2 SDRAM 1,066 MHz for RDRAM

Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing

Memory Addressing
A memory address is a number that indicates a location on the memory chips Memory addresses start at zero and go up to one less than the number of bytes of memory in the computer A computer does not search its entire memory each time it needs to find data CPU uses a memory address to store and retrieve each piece of data When ever a block of data ,instruction ,program or result of a calculation is stored in one or more consecutive addresses depending on its size

Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing

Computer systems automatically set up and maintain directory tables that provide the addresses of first character of all data stored in memory ,along with the number of addresses used , to facilitate the retrieval of data when the computer has finished processing a program or set of data it frees up that memory location to hold other program or data Address of memory location remain same but data or contents of memory location constantly changes

Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing

Expansion slots and cards

PC mother board has two or more empty expansion slots into which expansion cards are inserted Expansion cards also called expansion board, adapter , or just board Extension to the computer s bus that provide a way to add new components to the computers Provide enhancement in functionality when new needs are arrived

Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing

The expansion slots (PCI,AGP) are connected to the appropriate bus on the mother board Expansion slots are not interchangeable ISA (industrial standard architecture) are large than PCI slots AGP (accelerated graphic port) are smaller than PCI (peripheral component interconnect) Each expansion slot is designed to be with its corresponding expansion cards The overall ways these devices are added depends on the type of PC (desktop, portable, or handled)
Engr:Sajida Introduction to computing