The document discusses different types of computer memory. It defines memory as a device that stores binary data for processing. There are two main types: random access memory (RAM), which allows data to be accessed randomly at the same speed; and sequential access memory, where access time varies. RAM is further divided into static, dynamic, read-only (ROM), and read-mostly memory. ROM types include mask programmed, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. Flash memory is a type of EEPROM that uses standard voltages. Memory is essential for storing programs and data not currently needed by the CPU.

1. Digital Logic Circuits, Digital
Component and Data Representation
Course: B.Sc-CS-II
Subject: Computer Organization And
Architecture
Unit-1
1

2. Memory Unit
 A memory unit is a device to which binary information is transferred for
storage and from which information is retrieved when needed for
processing.
A memory unit stores binary information in groups of bits called words.
The internal structure of memory unit is specified by the number of words
it contains and the number of bits in each word.
 The memory unit is an essential component in any digital computer
since it is needed for storing programs and data. Not all accumulated
information is needed by the CPU at the same time.
 Therefore, it is more economical to use low-cost storage devices to serve
as a backup for storing the information that is not currently used by CPU

3. Classification
In general the memory is classified in two types based on their mode of
access of a memory system.
1. Random Access Memory: The world of data reading or writing from
or to the memory requires same time. We can access the data randomly.
Example: hard disk.
2.Sequential Access Memory: The information stored in some
medium is not immediately accessible but is available as
certain intervals of time. The access time is variable.
Example: magnetic tape.

4. Random Access Memory
 RAM can perform both Write and Read operations.The
architecture of memory is such that information can be
selectively retrieved from any of its internal locations.
 The time it takes to transfer information to or from any
desired random location is always the same – hence the name
random access memory.
 Integrated circuit RAM units are available in two operating
modes: static and dynamic.RAMs are categorized into
ROMs,Read Write Memories(RWMs) and Read Mostly
Memories(RMMs).

5. RAM
The write input causes binary data to be transferred
into the memory, and the read input causes binary
data to be transferred out of memory.

6. ROM
• ROM stands for Read Only Memory Read means output data-bits
corresponding to the address bits set at the input. The bits are used by
some processor or device or circuit for further operations.
• Data bits of different addresses store at ROM and all bits remain stored
in the memory even after a power interruption or power switch
OFFROM is randomly accessed.
• An equal time interval is taken for a read of data-bits from each
address. Address bits can be set randomly by an external circuit.ROM
has an address decoder (n to 2n) decoder within it.

7. ROM
ROM is used for storing programs that are PERMENTLY
resident in the computer and for tables of constants that do
not change in value once the production of the computer is
completed.

8. Types Of ROM
1.Masked Programmed ROMs :- These chips are integrated circuits
that physically encode the data to be stored, and thus it is impossible to
change their contents after fabrication.
2. The main advantage of mask ROM is its cost. Per bit, mask ROM is
more compact than any other kind of semiconductor memory. Since the
cost of an integrated circuit strongly depends on its size, mask ROM is
significantly cheaper than any other kind of semiconductor memory.
3. However, the one-time masking cost is high and there is a long turn-
around time from design to product phase. Design errors are costly: if
an error in the data or code is found, the mask ROM is useless and must
be replaced in order to change the code or data.

9. 2.User Programmed PROMs
 Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM) is read-only memory
(ROM) that can be modified once by a user. A typical PROM comes
with all bits reading as "1".
 Burning a fuse bit during programming causes the bit to read as
"0"The difference between a PROM and a ROM (read-only memory) is
that a PROM is manufactured as blank memory, whereas a ROM is
programmed during the manufacturing process.
 To write data onto a PROM chip, you need a special device called a
PROM programmer or PROM burner. The process of programming a
PROM is sometimes called burning the PROM.

10. Types Of RWMs
–Static RAM (SRAM)
–Dynamic RAM (DRAM)

11. Types Of RMMs
 EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) is
programmable read-only memory (programmable ROM) that can be
erased and re-used.
 Once programmed, an EPROM can be erased by exposing it to strong
ultraviolet light source. An EPROM differs from a PROM in that a
PROM can be written to only once and cannot be erased.
 EPROMs are used widely in personal computers because they enable
the manufacturer to change the contents of the PROM.

12. 2.EEPROM
 EEPROM stands for Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read
Only Memory. EEPROM is a type of non-volatile memory used in
computers and other electronic devices to store small amounts of data
that must be saved when power is removed, e.g., calibration tables or
device configuration.
 Unlike EPROM chips, EEPROMs do not need to be removed from the
computer to be modified. It also has a limited life i.e. the number of
times it can be reprogrammed is limited to tens or hundreds of
thousands of times. Applications-storing current date and time, storing
port statuses.

13. Semiconductor Memory Types

14. Flash Memory
 Flash Memory is a special form of EEPROM, which uses normal PC
voltages for erasure and reprogramming. Flash memory is often used to
hold control code such as the basic input/output system (BIOS) in a
personal computer.
 When BIOS needs to be changed (rewritten), the flash memory can be
written to in block (rather than byte) sizes, making it easy to update.
 Examples of flash memory device applications are storing messages in
a mobile phone, storing photographs in a digital camera.

15. References
1. Computer Organization and Architecture,
Designing for performance by William Stallings,
Prentice Hall of India.
2. Modern Computer Architecture, by Morris Mano,
Prentice Hall of India.
3. Computer Architecture and Organization by John P.
Hayes, McGraw Hill Publishing Company.
4. Computer Organization by V. Carl Hamacher,
Zvonko G. Vranesic, Safwat G. Zaky, McGraw Hill
Publishing Company.