The Main Memory Unit | Computer Architecture & Organisation (CAO) - Computer Science Engineering (CSE) PDF Download

The Main Memory Unit:
It is used for storing programs and data. The memory locations of memory unit is uniquely specified by the memory address of the location. M(X) is used to indicate the location of the memory unit M with address X.

The data transfer between memory unit and CPU takes place with the help of data register DR. When CPU wants to read some information from memory unit, the information first brings to DR, and after that it goes to appropriate position.Similarly, data to be stored to memory must put into DR first, and then it is stored to appropriate location in the memory unit.

The address of the memory location that is used during memory read and memory write operations are stored in the memory register AR.

The information fetched from the memory is a operand of an instruction, then it is moved from DR to data processing unit (either to AC or MQ). If it is an operand, then it is moved to program control unit (either to IR or IBR).

Two additional registers for the temporary storage of operands and results are included in data processing units: the accumulator AC and the multiplier-quotient register MQ.

Two instructions are fetch simultaneously from M and transferred to the program control unit. The instruction that is not to be executed immediately is placed in the instruction buffer register IBR. The opcode of the other instruction is placed in the instruction register IR where it is decoded.

In the decoding phase, the control circuits generate the required control signals to perform the specified operation in the instruction.

The program counter PC is used to store the address of the next instruction to be fetched from memory.

Input Output Device :
Input devies are used to put the information into computer. With the help of input devices we can store information in memory so that CPU can use it. Program or data is read into main memory from input device or secondary storage under the control of CPU input instruction.

Output devices are used to output the information from computer. If some results are evaluated by computer and it is stored in computer, then with the help of output devices, we can present it to the user. Output data from the main memory go to output device under the control of CPU output instruction.

The document The Main Memory Unit | Computer Architecture & Organisation (CAO) - Computer Science Engineering (CSE) is a part of the Computer Science Engineering (CSE) Course Computer Architecture & Organisation (CAO).
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FAQs on The Main Memory Unit - Computer Architecture & Organisation (CAO) - Computer Science Engineering (CSE)

1. What is the main function of the Main Memory Unit in a computer?
Ans. The main function of the Main Memory Unit in a computer is to store data and instructions that are currently being executed by the CPU. It provides fast and temporary storage for both the operating system and the applications running on the computer.
2. How is the Main Memory Unit different from secondary storage devices?
Ans. The Main Memory Unit, also known as RAM (Random Access Memory), is different from secondary storage devices like hard drives or solid-state drives in terms of speed and volatility. The Main Memory Unit is much faster as it allows quick access to data, but it is volatile, meaning that its contents are lost when the computer is turned off. On the other hand, secondary storage devices are slower but offer non-volatile storage, retaining data even when the computer is powered off.
3. What happens when the Main Memory Unit is full?
Ans. When the Main Memory Unit is full and there is no more space to store new data or instructions, the computer may experience performance issues. It may slow down, freeze, or crash as it struggles to manage the limited memory resources. To overcome this, the operating system utilizes techniques like virtual memory or swapping, where data that is not actively being used is temporarily moved to secondary storage to free up space in the Main Memory Unit.
4. How does the Main Memory Unit interact with the CPU?
Ans. The Main Memory Unit interacts with the CPU through the memory bus. The CPU sends memory requests to the Main Memory Unit, specifying the address of the data or instructions it needs. The Main Memory Unit retrieves the requested data from its storage cells and sends it back to the CPU through the memory bus. This interaction happens constantly as the CPU fetches and stores data during program execution.
5. Can the Main Memory Unit be upgraded or expanded?
Ans. Yes, the Main Memory Unit can be upgraded or expanded in most computers. This is typically done by adding more RAM modules to the computer's motherboard. Upgrading the Main Memory Unit can improve the overall performance of the computer by allowing it to handle more data and instructions simultaneously. However, it is important to ensure compatibility between the new RAM modules and the computer's motherboard specifications.
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