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| Computer's main memory |
Main Memory
Commonly known as random-access memory, or RAM, the computer’s main memory is a device that holds information. Specifically, RAM holds the sequences of instructions in the programs that are running and the data those programs are using.
Memory is divided into sections, or cells, that each hold an equal amount of data. Each cell typically contains eight “switches” that may be either on or off. A switch that is in the on position usually represents the number 1, while a switch in the off position usually represents the number 0. The computer stores data by setting the switches in a memory cell to a pattern that represents a piece of information. Each of these switches is known as a bit, which stands for binary digit. Each cell, which is a collection of eight bits, is known as a byte.
Bytes are grouped together to make words. On most computers a word contains four bytes. Each word is assigned a unique number known as an address. The addresses are ordered from lowest to highest. A word is identified by its address in much the same way a post office box is identified by an address. Figure shows a group of memory words with their addresses. In the illustration, sample data is stored in memory. The number 149 is stored in the word with the address 16, and the number 72 is stored at address 23.
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| Computer Memory |
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