The capacity of RAM is stated in terms of the number of bytes it can store. As we learned in this topic , a byte, or eight bits, is roughly equivalent to a character (such as A, 1, &).
Memory capacity for most computers is stated in terms of kilobytes (KB), a convenient designation for 1024 (210) bytes of storage, and in terms of megabytes (MS), which is 1,048.576 (220) bytes. notice that 1 KB is about 1000 and I MB b about 1.000.000, thus the origin of the prefixes kilo (thousand) and mega (million). Memory capacities of modern micros range from 640 KB to 32 MB .
Until recently, all computer RAM capacities could he stated in megabytes (MB), however, some high-end mainframes and supercomputers have more than 1000 MB of RAM . Their RAM capacities arc stated as gigabytes CGB), about one billion bytes. It's only a matter of time before we state RAM in terms of terabytes (TB), about one trillion bytes. GB and TB are frequently used in reference 10 high-capacity secondary storage. Occasionally you will sec memory capacities of individual chips stated in terms of kilobits (Kb) and megabits (Mb).
Now if anyone ever asks you what a 32-bit, 50-MHz, 8-MB micro is, you've got the answer! This describes the processor of what is emerging as the entry-level PC in the work place.
Word length, speed, and RAM capacity are the primary descriptors of processors. However, computers, like people, have their own "personalities." That is, two similarly described computers might possess attributes that give one more capability than the other. For example, one 32-bit, 50-MHz, 8-MB PC might permit the connection of three peripheral devices and another six peripheral devices. Or, one might be configured with an accelerator to speed up processing of numeric data. Just remember when you buy a PC that the basic descriptors tell most. but not the whole, story.
Labels: Computer