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RAM
RAM stands for Random-Access Memory. It saves data and
instructions that the CPU uses to complete various operations.
RAM is a read-write memory. Data can be written to and read

from RAM at rapid speed.
RAM is volatile memory. It only stores information for as long as the computer is turned

on. The information saved in RAM is lost when the computer is turned off.
Size of RAM in modern computers ranges from 4 GB to 256 GB. Some common types

of RAM are SRAM, DRAM, SDRAM, DDR RAM, and GDDR RAM.

Try This Computational Skills

Fill in the blanks with the correct answer to relate the sizes of computer memory.
• 1 Byte = ________ bits • 1 PB = ________ TB

• 1024 GB = ________ TB • 1 YB = 1024 ________

Secondary Memory

RAM cannot be used to store important data for extended periods of time. As a result,

you’ll need a device to store data permanently, from which it can be accessed when
needed. Such devices are called Secondary memory or Storage devices. Secondary
Memory is also known as Auxiliary Memory or External Memory.

Secondary memory is non-volatile and is not directly accessible by the CPU. The capacity
of secondary memory is large, and is usually measured in gigabytes or terabytes.

SECONDARY STORAGE DEVICES
Secondary storage devices are used to store information that is accessed frequently by

the CPU. These devices store data using magnetic, optical, or flash technology.

Hard Disk

A Hard Disk is a computer’s main storage
device. It is installed within the CPU box. It is
made up of one or more round, thin metallic

disks that have been coated with magnetic
material and are housed in a metallic box. The
storage capacity of hard disks ranges from 500

GB to 20 TB. Hard disk Portable hard disk
A portable hard disk can be connected externally to a computer and carried anywhere.

Portable hard disks typically come in storage capacities ranging from 500 GB to 5 TB.

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