Today we will learn about:, Exams of Computer Fundamentals

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The stored program concept Memory addresses RAM ROM Flash memory Cache CMOS

The Stored Program Concept

John Von Neuman solved the problem of limited programmability by giving the computer instructions as well as data for input. He reasoned that the computer could be fed instructions as binary numbers and stored in memory.

Memory

Consists of one or more chips on motherboard Each byte is stored in unique address

memory chips

on a memory

module

Terminology

The term “memory” typically refers to RAM, also known as main memory. DRAM, SRAM, MRAM, SIMM, DIMM are terms used to describe different types of RAM.

The amount of memory you need depends upon what

programs you intend to run on your computer.

Multi-tasking, loading more than one program at a time

into RAM, also depends upon how much room there

is in memory.

Volatile / Non-volatile

Volatile – lost when power is off, anything stored in volatile memory must be saved before you shut down the computer. Non-volatile – remains even when memory is turned off

ROM

ROM is permanent, cannot be erased or written over. It is hardwired into a chip on the motherboard. (Non-volatile) PROM – Programmable Read Only Memory (Non-volatile) are blank ROM chips that can be written to (programmed) only once. EEPROM – Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory

Flash Memory

Non-volatile chips that can be erased and re-written, for example, to allow the BIOS to be upgraded. Also used on mobile devices like PDAs, phones, cameras, MP3s… Flash memory cards (used in handheld devices) store flash memory on a removable card.

CMOS

used to store information about the computer, such as:  types of peripheral devices  date and time  start-up info

Memory Access Time

What you need to know

Describe the purpose of memory in a computer Explain how memory differs from storage Understand the terms that describe memory sizes (kilo, mega, giga, etc.) Explain the purpose of cache memory Explain the purpose of virtual memory Explain the purpose of ROM and flash memory Explain what the BIOS does Explain what the POST does Explain what the CMOS does Describe which types of memory are volatile/non-volatile? Understand the terms that describe memory access time (milli, micro, nano, etc.)

Homework/Labs

Read pages 38 – 40 on expansion cards and ports Take Quiz #5.