Chapter 4: Understanding Memory

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Memory Defined

Memory is where the computer temporarily stores electronic instructions and data. Computing systems have different types of memory, which produce different results. For example, when a processor needs to store and retrieve information quickly in order to carry out a specified function or calculation, it stores and retrieves data from cache memory that is internal to the processor. If access to information isn't needed as quickly, the data or instructions may be stored in RAM (main memory).

There are many different types of physical and logical memory to suit specific operational needs. The memory types addressed in this chapter are those you need to be familiar with to successfully prepare for the CompTIA A+ exams.

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