Types of Main Memory

RAM (Random Access Memory)

ROM (Read Only Memory)
RAM:
RAM stand for Random Access Memory . It is the primary storage device. It is used to store data and instructions
temporarily.
RAM :
CPU can perform Tow types of operation on RAM
Read Operation:
CPU read data from RAM. The data read from RAM is copied in a CPU register.
Write Operation:
CPU writes data into RAM. The data from a CPU register is copied to the specific location of memory.
Characteristic of RAM
 RAM is a Volatile memory. Its contents are lost when the electricity supply is cut-off.
 RAM is read/write memory. CPU can write and read data to and from RAM
 RAM is random access memory. It means that any part of RAM can be accessed directly or randomly
Types of RAM
DRAM(Dynamic Random Access Memory)
SRAM(Static Random Access Memory)
DRAM
 DRAM is the most commonly used technology to build RAM chips.
 In order to maintain data in DRAM, it is refreshed with electric charge again and again.
 During refreshing process, CPU cannot write and read data to and from the DRAM.
 That is why it is slow.
SRAM
 It is faster and more reliable than DRAM. The SRAM chip does not have to be refreshed with electric
charge frequently.
 So CPU does not have to wait to access data from SRAM. SRAM chip is more expensive than DRAM chip.
 SRAM technology is used to build very fast memory known as t he cache memory. Cache is used
between CPU and main memory.
 It is used to increase the performance of a computer.
ROM (Read Only Memory)
 The data and programs stored in ROM can only be read. This is why it is called read only memory
 The data and instructions are written into the ROM at the time of its manufacturing.
 This data and instructions cannot be modified or deleted afterword. ROM store data permanently
Types of ROM
1. PROM
2. EPROM
3. EEPROM
PROM
 PROM stands for Programmable Read Only Memory. It is initially blank.
 Once the program is written in PROM chip, it cannot change or altered
EPROM
 EPROM stand for Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory. It is also initially blank.
 The program can be erased by using Ultraviolet rays.
EEPROM
 EEPROM stand for Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory.
 This kind or ROM can b written or changed with the help of electrical devices.
 So data stored in this type if ROM chip can be easily modified.
 Balance of Power

Introduction
Balance of power is a theory related to state behaviour. . The presence of states with varying degrees of
power makes it necessary to study the pattern of relationship among the states. Power and its
distribution is one of the major determinants of international relations . the traditional relations among
the states have often been explained in terms of balance of power. BOP is an effective instrument for
halting aggression . that is why many theorists have described the theory of ‘ Balance of Power ‘ as a
basic principle of international relations and a fundamental law of politics.
Meaning of Balance of power
Balance of power in the ordinary sense means that there is a equilibrium of power among various
nations . To achieve this various nations forms groups so that no single or group of nations become
strong enough to dominate others . In international relations it refers to the equilibrium among states to
prevent any other state from becoming too strong and thus gaining the ability to enforce its will upon
the rest.
According to Morgenthau,
‘Balance of power can be achieved by either diminishing the heavier scale or increasing the lighter
scale’.

Defining balance of power

It has been noted that the topic of ‘Balance of Power’ in international relations has multiple
interpretations. It can be defined as ‘’ the mechanism which the states adopt in order to maintain a
certain level of equilibrium in their relative powers’’. Balance of power in international relations can also
be defined as a system in which states enjoy relatively equal power , states form alliances or make
policies to counteract the acquisition of power by other states and no one state is able to dominate the
international system.
Pre requisites of Balance of power
1. Multiple nation states
2. International anarchy
3. Varying degrees of power distributed among the states.
Balance of Power and Realism:
Concept of balance of power is related with realist school of thought. According to realist school of
thought international system is anarchic. Due to anarchic international system there is lack of trust in
international environment. This anarchic international system leads to security dilemma and self help
system in international arena. To overcome this situation states enhance their powers and thus a power
race starts. In this situation weaker states start to make alliances with powerful states to balance their
power
Types of Balance of power
There are mainly two types of balance of power, explained below in brief
1. Simple balance
2. Complex balance
3. Regional balance of power
4. Flexible balance of power
1. Simple Balance
Simple balance is that the power is concentrated in between the states in which power distribution is
equal .In post world war 2 after 1950’s scholars believes that the USA and USSR were in balance of
power.
2. Complex Balance
In matrix balance there are number of states or group of states that have almost equilibrium in power .
e.g. NATO vs Warsaw pact.
 3. Regional balance of power:
In this type states aim to balance power in a particular geographical and political region.
4. Flexible balance of power
In flexible balance of power member of states change their alliances and seek fresh alliances due to changed
circumstances.

Following are some methods to achieve balance of power.

1. Divide and rule
2. Compensation
3. Armaments
4. Alliances
5. Intervention
6. Buffer state
Main Memory

Memory Unit:

The unit of computer system that is used to store data and programs in called Memory Unit (Computer
storage) .

Types

I. Main Memory
II. II. Secondary Memory

Main Memory
I. Main memory is the internal part of computer. It is used to store data and instructions that are
currently in use.
II. It is a temporary storage. It is directly accessible by the CPU,
III. It is Volatile. Its contents are lost when computer is switched off. So data and programs cannot be
stored permanently into it. For example RAM
Secondary Memory:
I. The secondary storage or memory is used to store information permanently for later use.
It is an external part of the computer.
II. A large amount of data and programs can be stored into it. Its storage capacity is up to gigabytes (GB)
for personal computers.
III. For example hard disk, floppy dist, CD-Rom etc.