Primary Storage

Primary Storage

• Primary storage is also known as internal or main memory.
• It is stored in memory chips that can be directly accessed by the computer's processor.
• The CPU continuously reads instructions stored there and executes them as required.

Types of Primary Storage

• Read Only Memory (ROM)

  • Non-volatile memory, meaning its contents cannot be changed by the user.
  • Contents are not lost when the computer is switched off.
  • Used to store the instructions to start up the computer.

• Random Access Memory (RAM)

  • Volatile memory, meaning it loses its contents when the computer is switched off.
  • Used to store programs and files currently being used by the processor.

Comparison with Secondary Storage

• Primary storage is directly accessible by the CPU.
• Secondary storage is not directly accessible by the CPU.
• Computer uses input/output channels to access secondary storage.
• Accessing primary storage is faster than accessing secondary storage.