The document discusses computer memory caches. Caches are small amounts of fast memory located either in the processor (L1 cache) or between the processor and main memory (L2 cache). Caches store copies of frequently used portions of main memory that are closer to the processor, allowing faster access than retrieving data from regular memory. Cache size is typically smaller than main memory, such as 256kb or 512kb, and acts as temporary storage.

2. Cache
Main Memory Address
00000000
00000001
00000010
00000011
00000100
00000101
00000110
00000111
00001000
0000100111100011
00110011
00001110
11110000
11110011
11001010
11001100
00000011
00010001
01000000
Cache Memory
10000000
10000001
10000010
10000011
Address
• small amount of fast access memory either:
• built into the processor (L1 cache)
OR
• between the processor and memory (L2 cache)
• physically closer to the processor than RAM so faster

3. Cache
Main Memory Address
00000000
00000001
00000010
00000011
00000100
00000101
00000110
00000111
00001000
0000100111100011
00110011
00001110
11110000
11110011
11001010
11001100
00000011
00010001
01000000
Cache Memory
10000000
10000001
10000010
10000011
Address
• stores a copied portion of main memory which the processor may need
to access
• cache is temporary storage
• cache size is smaller than memory, typically 256kb or 512kb

4. Access Speed
The speed at which data can be accessed depends on the
distance between it and the processor
Registers
Cache memory
RAM
Faster access
Slower access