What is RAM and what are its functions
The main memory of the computer is called as Random Access Memory (RAM). The name derives from the fact that data can be stored in and retrieved at random, from anywhere in the electronic main memory chips in approximately the same amount of time, no matter where the data is.
Main memory is in an electronic or volatile state. When the computer is off, main memory is empty, when it is on it is capable of receiving and holding a copy of the software instructions, and data necessary for processing.
Because the main memory is a volatile form of storage that depends on electric power can go off during processing, users save their work frequently on to non volatile secondary storage devices such as diskettes or hard disk.
The main memory is used for the following purposes:
- Storage of the copy of the main software program that controls the general operation of the computer. This copy is loaded on to the main memory when the computer is turned on, and it stays there as long as the computer is on.
- Temporary storage of a copy of application program instruction, to be received by CPU for interpretation and processing or execution.
- Temporary storage of data that has been input from the key board, until instructions call for the data to be transferred in to CPU for processing.
- Temporary storage of data, which is required for further processing or transferred as output to output devices such as screen, a printer, a disk storage device.