10 Differences Between Primary Memory and Secondary Memory
The memory of the computer is simply the brain of the computer where data, as well as information, are stored for easy retrieval. Memory is the storage space of the computer that is capable of storing data or programs temporarily or permanently.
The memory of the computer is basically divided into two parts –the primary and secondary memory. The basic difference between the two parts is that the primary memory is directly accessible by CPU whereas, the secondary memory is not directly accessible to CPU.
Primary memory is the main memory of the computer which can be directly accessed by the central processing unit, whereas secondary memory refers to the external storage device which can be used to store data or information permanently.
Primary Memory
The primary memory performs all key storage tasks. And that’s why it is known as primary memory. It is generally volatile in nature and directly connected with the processor. It is directly operated by CPU.
There are three main types of primary storage: read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, and cache memory. The RAM and ROM are usually paired to form the main memory. Primary memory is directly controlled by CPU. This is the reason behind ROM is kept in primary memory. Even ROM isn’t a volatile memory while primary memory is volatile in nature.
The principle technology used for primary memory is the semiconductor chips. These chips are very volatile in nature which accounts for the temporal nature of the primary memory. As a result, data is intact as long as the computer is running and the moment it’s off, data is lost.
Characteristic of Primary Memory
- The computer can’t run without primary memory
- It is known as the main memory.
- You can lose data in case power is switched off
- Also known as volatile memory
- It is a working memory of the computer.
- It is faster when compared to secondary memory.
- Examples: RAM, ROM, Cache memory, PROM, EPROM, Registers, etc
Secondary Memory
Secondary storage is best for storing data permanently. Especially, because it is non-volatile and not directly accessed by a central processing unit. Secondary storage is also known as “auxiliary storage” (or external memory) because it functions as an assistant to the primary memory.
Although it is slower than primary storage, it is one of the most valuable forms of storing data because of its long-term storage capabilities and impressive capacity. While 10GB of RAM is somewhat impressive, the latest computers have secondary storage (hard drives) with a terabyte of space.
Characteristic Secondary Memory
- These are magnetic and optical memories
- It is a non-volatile type of memory
- Data is stored permanently even when the power of the computer is switched off
- It helps store data in a computer
- The computer can run without secondary memory
- Slower than primary memory
- Examples: Magnetic Tapes, Optical Disc, Floppy Disks, Flash memory [USB drives], Paper Tape, Punched cards etc.
Notable Distinctions Between Primary and Secondary Memory
1. The primary memory is directly accessible by the Processor/CPU while the external memory doesn’t have direct access.
2. The computer can’t run without primary memory.
3. The primary memory is categorized as volatile and nonvolatile memories while the Secondary memory is non- volatile.
4. Instructions or data to be currently executed are copied to main memory while information to be kept permanently is stored in the secondary memory.
5. The computer’s primary memory is relatively smaller when compared to secondary memory.
6. Purchasing the primary memory is costlier than secondary memory.
7. Primary memories are made of semiconductors while secondary memories are made of magnetic and optical material.
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CSN Team.
