Cache - A Computer Memory of Its Own

A cache isn't really a computer memory, per say, but rather a temporary storage area where a collection of data duplicated from another area on the computer and is used to expedite access times in cases where the actual information would be inefficient to retrieve. It's simply a faster method for a CPU to locate and use information stored in the main memory that is used frequently. This can be extremely useful in having an application run without having to wait each time it is refreshed or revisited in quick succession.

The CPU is not the only thing on your computer that utilizes the convenience of a cache. Web browsers and web servers also find this aspect of storage useful.
Information held within the cache is said to receive hits when a cache client-which is simply the device or web browser using the cache-tries to search a cache for a tagged piece of datum and finds the necessary tag for what it wants. Instead of continuing to the main memory, the client uses the datum from the cache instead without having to retrieve and compute information found in the main memory. Since the data inside the cache is an exact copy of the original data held in the main memory, the data retrieved from the cache responds exactly as the original would.
By the token of definition above, a cache miss is when the cache client cannot find the desired tag for datum that it is trying to locate. In this occurrence, the client would proceed to the main memory to retrieve and compute the necessary datum required by the commands entered.

In order for datum to be in the cache, it is also in the back store. Sometimes, the cache and back store are written at the same time, but not always. It depends upon the commands for the back store and the write commands for the function of the cache. A write-through is a synchronized operation in which both places are written at once. A write-back occurs when the datum is written to the back store after it is written to the cache; and a no-write allocation occurs when only the processor will be accessing the cache, creating a situation in which no rewriting of the back store or the cache is necessary.

There are several types of caches that a client will use while a computer is in operation. Disk caches and BIND caches are two of the more commonly known in the world of caches.

Caches, it is important to note, are not buffers. The functions of both of these computer operations and storage systems are often combined, but the intent for each is different. A buffer is a temporary memory format and is used when the CPU cannot access addressable information directly for a number of reasons. The use of a buffer for these situations increase transfer speed.

Transfer speed is also improved through the use of a cache, but the speed increase comes from the probability that the same datum will be read multiple times from the cache. This is due to the intent of the cache, which is to reduce access to the underlying forms of slower storage such as the main memory. Also important to note is that the cache is usually invisible to neighboring layers since it is often designed as an abstraction layer with that intent in mind.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant for computer memory, PC supplies, and computer games. When shopping, we recommend the best online stores for PC supplies, computer accessories, computer memory, Caches.
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Computer Memory and Disk Space - What's the Difference?

Almost everyone has heard of Computer Memory and Disk Space. Many computer users mistakenly use the two terms interchangeably, as if they had the same meaning. However, while they are related, the differences between them are vast enough that they cannot be used as one term. Think of it as the difference between your short term memory and your long term memory. You meet Mary today. By tomorrow, you may forget her name. But, next week, you may be able to pull up all the details of the meeting if asked to do so. Memory and Disk Space are similar in relationship to this example.
Memory or RAM is short for Random Access Memory and is known as a volatile or temporary memory type. It can be lost and often is. It can be used to hold new information, just as your short term memory does. When something new demands your attention, your short term memory transfers the previous information to the long term memory vault.

In computers, this is the equivalent of saving a document before closing it. When you save a document, its contents are transferred from RAM (temporary memory of the computer) into the hard disk (long term memory of the computer). If the process is interrupted by power failure, cancellation by user, or a number of any other such scenarios, then the contents of the document are "lost".

It is similar to what happens as we sort out important, save-worthy information from our short term to long term memories. We won't remember that we counted six dots on the back of the fourth ladybug caught in a jar that day, but we will remember that today we are supposed to go shopping for groceries if we want to eat tonight.
Disk Space is space on the hard drive, the place where the applications you use on your computer are stored. When you open or run a program, the program is first loaded from the disk into your computer's RAM, and the program instructions are then executed from RAM. The computer can only process instructions that are in RAM. Therefore, for any program to be executed, it has to first be loaded from the disk into your computer's memory. RAM is also used when we create documents and image or other files.

However, RAM is volatile memory - the contents of RAM get "wiped out" when we switch off the computer or if there is a power failure. If information is "deleted" in RAM, it is simply not saved and the computer has no record of the existence of that information. This is why it's so easy to lose open documents during a computer runtime error commonly known as a "crash". Documents currently in RAM that aren't saved during a sudden loss of power, or while turning the computer off, are also lost.

Whenever you type a new document, whatever you type is initially stored in RAM. But, since RAM is volatile or temporary, if you want to preserve what you have typed, you will need to save your document. When you issue the Save command in your application, the information you have type which is in RAM gets transferred to the hard drive and is stored in a file.

As you can see, the memory (or RAM) and disk space are related. They are inter-dependent on each other for your computer to operate correctly. As you use your computer, it transfers applications and data from the disk to RAM when needed. This data is then manipulated in RAM. The contents of the RAM have to be saved to return any changes back to the hard disk. If not, anything in RAM that isn't saved will be lost.

Data or files on a disk can be deleted, as well. When a user "deletes" a file, be it operational system files or application files from a favorite program such as MS Word, iTunes, or a graphical program used for image editing, the files are not truly erased. Instead, your computer simply marks the space as available and the program or deleted material is inaccessible to the user.

When the computer needs the space that the deleted program or document once claimed, then that space is overwritten with new information. However, if the deleted file's old space is never needed by the computer, the material remains on the hard drive. This realization has given birth to forensic computer science as the material is obtainable if you have the right equipment and can access the hard drive's storage space with specialized programs intended to retrieve deleted files.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant for computer memory, PC supplies, and computer games. When shopping, we recommend the best online stores for computer accessories, RAM vs. ROM.
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How to Upgrade Computer Memory

Computer memory, also known as Random Access Memory (RAM), is just like your short term memory in your brain. Computer memory stores everything you are currently working on and recently worked on. As you can see that makes it a very essential part of your PC because it stores vital information that you are using and need access too immediately. No matter what the data is, pictures, sounds or just text, if you get a good amount of memory your computer will load that data much faster and store it better.

Many people want to do a RAM upgrade there selves, but always run into the problem of figuring out which type of memory to buy and installing it. If you didn’t already know, there are many different types of RAM available on the market, and you need to get the type that corresponds with your motherboard. If you don’t know what a motherboard is, it’s the big circuit board inside of your computer that connects everything together.

First, let’s talk about the two main types of RAM that are in use today, SDRAM and DDR. SDRAM stands for Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory, and is the most common amongst PC’s today. Most likely your desktop computer uses this type of RAM. I use to have SDRAM, and I thought it was okay because it got the job done. I have switched though to DDR RAM, which is replacing SDRAM. The speed of DDR RAM is twice that of SDRAM, so you can imagine the difference. If your motherboard currently only has SDRAM slots, then you have no choice but to get that type of RAM. If you want to change to DDR RAM, then you have to buy a whole new motherboard and install it. To find out what RAM your computer uses just look at the instruction manual that came with it, or if it is custom built, look at the motherboard’s instruction manual.

For all you laptop and PDA owners out there, the type of RAM in your laptop or PDA is called SODIMM. Available at the same memory store you purchase your desktop computer RAM from, just a little more expensive and harder to install.

Now that you know the different types of RAM, you need to know where to buy it from and how to install it. To buy it, I suggest your local computer store because there will be a person there to help you and they will make sure that you buy the correct RAM. Here’s a tip to, bring your computers instruction manual with you to the store and they will definitely know the correct type of memory you need. If you want to buy online, then NewEgg.com and TigerDirect.com are two great online computer stores that will deliver your RAM into your mail box.

And last but not least, you need to install your new RAM. Believe it or not this is the easy part. First shut down and unplug everything from your computer and then remove your computer’s case cover, to gain access to the motherboard inside. Once you can clearly see the motherboard, locate your RAM. You should know what it looks like since you just bought some and you can look at that. When you find it, you will notice a latch connected to the slot that holds it on each end. Push down both of the latches to unhook them, and then gently pull the RAM stick out. It should slide out with ease, but if it doesn’t, then wiggle it a little bit while pulling.

After that you just need to insert your new RAM. First count how many slots you have available for RAM and how many of them currently have RAM in it. Some times you will see 2 slots occupied and 1 open, or all three slots could be used. Either way, you have to insert your new RAM into an open slot, or if all are used then remove the oldest and least amount of RAM to clear a slot. Then gently insert your new RAM and pull the latches back up on both sides, securing your memory into place. After that just screw your case cover back on, hook your computer back up to everything and then power it back on. Your computer will automatically detect the new RAM and no further installation process is needed.

Well that is about it, I hope I have helped you. Just remember to keep your computer clean plus maintain properly, and it will live a long life.
Copyright Michael Cottier
If you need help upgrading other parts of your computer or portable devices, then Michael Cottier can help you. Go to his website at: http://www.computer-customizing-guide.com/
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Why Would A Teacher Allow Students To Play Computer Games?

If you walk into the modern classroom, you will be hard pressed to find one that is not equipped with at least one computer, if not more. The computer is becoming a permanent fixture in the classroom, and some schools are even giving students laptops to use for school purposes. This is not surprising considering how computer driven our society is, but many parents and grandparents are surprised when they learn that computer games are being used in the classroom.

What purpose do computer games in the classroom serve? Are they simply there to fill time in place of board games or outdoor playing, or do they serve an educational purpose? While games are often used to fill those times when students need something entertaining to do, they do serve a very important purpose.

Children enjoy using the computer. In fact, long before most kids have thought about school they have been on a computer. Video games, both computerized and on the television, are also extremely popular with children. Children will play computer games, so why not use them to reinforce educational material while they play?
Computer games in the classroom do not replace the teacher's role. They are used for practice and drill in most situations. Even though some subjects can be taught exclusively on the computer, such as typing, other subjects can be practiced and reinforced by playing computer games. Take spelling as an example. When students need to practice their spelling words, a simple computer game like hangman could be used to help them practice in a fun, relaxed manner.

Educational software can be used in the home as well as the school. You know that your kids love to play on the computer. Imagine giving them a game to play that is fun while at the same time works to strengthen their math skills. Both you and your children's teacher will approve of that type of screen time!

Educational computer games can also help strengthen the thinking skills of students. Games that ask students to solve mysteries are a great way to develop critical thinking skills in a fun, supportive way. These types of games are the ones that kids can play and learn without realizing that they are learning something!

When using computer games in the classroom, it is important to monitor what your students are doing. For example, you may find that a student always plays the basic math game that he knows he can win. He doesn't really need to practice in spelling, so you might encourage him to embark on a history mystery game instead. Whenever possible, computer games should be used to work on skills that a student needs to strengthen.

As with any computer use, playing computer games must be balanced with other learning. Most children would be willing to play games all day long. This, of course, is not a good way to educate students. On the other hand, never allowing a student to play on the computer could be harming him. He will be missing out on valuable practice time and a fun way to approach learning. The balance should allow students to play, while at the same time providing traditional instruction throughout the school day.

So the next time you walk into your child's school and see her on the computer, don't worry. She is being entertained, challenged and learning at the same time! Computer games play a vital role in a well-balanced classroom, so take some time to thank your teacher for allowing your kids some time to play!
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A Basic Guide to How A Computer Works

Over the last 20 years or so, computers have become a pillar of our society. Like other such pillars, most people don’t know how they work despite the fact they are critical to our lives!

Computer is one of those grab all terms that covers a lot of devices. The simplest computers run basic things like clocks. On the other end of the spectrum, we have super computers that perform incredibly complex functions that are difficult to grasp. In this article, we are talking about neither of these. Instead, we are going to focus on your run of the mill personal computer.

A computer is not what most people think at first. At its root base, it is a machine that organizes numbers. The organization is done pursuant to instructions given to it. This back and forth is done through programs such as Windows. For the programs to work, however, there has to be a basic hardware platform. For your average computer, there are four parts – memory, a control unit, input/output devices and an ALU. Let’s take a closer look.

Memory is perhaps the easiest subject for most people to grasp. After all, even novice users know about memory since it is usually included in the marketing material for computers. But what is memory? It is essentially a collection of tiny mailboxes. A program uses memory by placing numbers representing something in various mailboxes. The combination of numbers produces the desired results when the program runs. The program interprets the information for the CPU which cranks out the result.

The control unit is pivotal. It plays the role of reading the instructions issued by programs. As it reads the instructions, it directs different areas of the computer to take corresponding actions. It is hard to visualize, but basically this is the hub of everything going on.

The ALU is a unique area. ALU stands for arithmetic and logic unit. As the name suggests, it performs arithmetic and logic functions. In this case, we are basically talking about crunching numbers or following code commands to do something. ALU is a complex and confusing area, but this is the basic idea.

Input/Output devices are our fourth area. You can probably guess what these devices are. They are external devices that provide and receive information from the computer. They include things such as your mouse, keyboard, hard drive, printer and so on. As computers have become more complex, these devices often are now found to contain their own computers to process and perform functions. In this way, the average home pc is actually a collection of computers.

All of these sections work together to make a computer do what it does. They are connected through buses, the plastic wrapped flat wires you see in the interior of your computer or simple cords on the outside. As computers evolve, many output/input devices are now connected wirelessly.
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The Importance of Technology( for example computer) in Our Daily Lives

Technology is an absolute need we cannot escape from. Let's just say, it has a very big role in most aspects of our lives. In other words, it answers most of Mankind problems. Across centuries technology evolves. The importance of technology is aiming for comfort of use in whichever form it is. It always directs for easiness in life.

Take the mobile technology for example. The faster the world is moving, the more hi-end the features are offered. Laptop gets thinner and smaller. It becomes more compact every year and offers more capabilities and top performance. It should load a lot of stuffs in a more concise shape. That is the need. Period. People should not take time to think of what should be brought over a sales presentation in the southern state since everything is already "filed" in the laptop.

Also for telephone. The need to be able to communicate anytime, anywhere, has inspired scientists to create cellular phone. And it gets smaller and smaller. And then it has more features, more games, more entertainment, and now offered more professional like having a computer in the pocket. And then from costly, it goes cheaper and better and faster and become more reliable.

The fact that the importance of technology in our daily basis is undeniable has inspired scientists to make improvements from time to time through their invented tools and devices for us to use, just to make our lives easier. We always tend to make one step ahead. Technology can help not just with the present but also approximating the future. It can calculate the potential profits and losses. And based on these, we can create plans and a list of pre-cautious steps for the future of our descendants.

Find more articles regarding the importance of technology, visit http://www.objectsoft.net Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Wijaya