memory library

 

Memory refers to the amount of storage you have in your computer. We'll explore topics like RAM, caching and virtual memory.

Featured Article:  How RAM Works

Random access memory is the most well-known form of computer memory. It's as important to your computer's operation as the CPU, because it determines how quickly and efficiently your computer can perform your requested tasks. See more »

Does adding more RAM to your computer make it faster?

Does adding more RAM to your computer make it faster?

Up to a point, adding RAM (random access memory) will cause your computer to feel faster on certain types of operations. RAM is important because of an operating system component called the virtual memory manager (VMM).

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How BIOS Works

How BIOS Works

One of the most common uses of Flash memory is for the basic input/output system of your computer, commonly known as the BIOS. On virtually every system available, the BIOS makes sure all the other chips, hard drives, ports and CPU function together.

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How Caching Works

How Caching Works

Caching increases the speed at which your computer pulls data from memory. Do you know how it speeds things up? How can a little cache go a really, really long way?

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How Computer Memory Works

How Computer Memory Works

Like our brains, computers use both short-term and long-term memory to store data. But the similarities end there. There are several types of computer memory that are arranged based on both technical and financial concerns.

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How Holographic Memory Will Work

How Holographic Memory Will Work

We're talking Star Wars-level futuristic here: Holographic memory could potentially store terabytes of data in a 1-centimeter cube. Learn how tomorrow's ultra-high-capacity computer memory will work!

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How RAM Works

How RAM Works

Random access memory is the most well-known form of computer memory. It's as important to your computer's operation as the CPU, because it determines how quickly and efficiently your computer can perform your requested tasks.

See more »
How Removable Storage Works

How Removable Storage Works

Removable memory has unchained us from our PCs -- we can now carry gigabytes of data wherever we go in a device the size of a matchbox. Learn about the three major digital storage technologies.

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How ROM Works

How ROM Works

Read-only memory is not only essential to your computer, but is also used in everything from video games to microwaves. Learn about the different types of ROM and how they're used.

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How Virtual Memory Works

How Virtual Memory Works

Chances are good that your operating system includes virtual memory. It makes your computer act like it has a lot more RAM than it does. Find out what virtual memory is and how it increases the speed of your PC.

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Tech Talk: Computer Memory Quiz

Tech Talk: Computer Memory Quiz

Without memory, computers wouldn't be able to store data in any way. How much do you know about computer memory?

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Tech Talk: RAM Quiz

Tech Talk: RAM Quiz

You've probably heard about RAM memory when people talk about computers -- how much RAM a computer might need, whether or not more needs to be added. How does RAM store certain types of data? Take the quiz and find out.

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What is the difference between static RAM and dynamic RAM?

What is the difference between static RAM and dynamic RAM?

Your computer probably uses both static RAM and dynamic RAM at the same time, but it uses them for different reasons because of the cost difference between the two types. See what these types of RAM do in your computer.

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What is virtual memory?

What is virtual memory?

Chances are good that your operating system includes virtual memory. It makes your computer act like it has a lot more RAM than actually it does. Find out what virtual memory is and how it increases the speed of your PC.

See more »