Peripheral Devices



Peripheral Devices

Background

A peripheral device is defined as the device that is connected to the host system of computer but is not an essential part of the system and is more or less dependent on the host. They are may be input or put out devices depending upon their function and their work (Flores, 1973). They are designed especially to expand the capabilities of the host but are not an essential element of or the core element of computer architecture.

The peripherals devices can be of many different types.

Input

Output

Storage

An Output peripheral can be defined as the external device that performs the function of both, input and output for the computer system. RAM is the best example of the peripheral output device (Flores, 1973).

Introduction

RAM is one of the widely used Peripheral devices of the computer. Random-Accessed Memory, abbreviated as RAM, is a type to device that is used for storing computer data. In this modern world of technology where everything has modified to its best, RAM has also changed its shape. It has now been converted into integrated circuits that are responsible for handling the stored data in any order followed by the difficult case performance of constant time (Flores, 1973). RAM is usually connected to the volatile types of memories, for example, DRAM memory modules, that are responsible for the sto0rasge of the data and information if there is a fluctuation or the loss of power supply. The first module of the RAM device was available in the year of 1951.

Discussion

Many other memory devices, either internal or external, can access the stored data in a pre programmed order due to the limitation that are enforced due to mechanical design limitations. Examples are CDs and DVDs, magnetic tapes, floppy etc.

Static RAM (SRAM) and Dynamic RAM (DRAM)

RAM can be categorized into basic two types

Static RAM (SRAM)

Dynamic RAM (DRAM)

The Static RAM is followed by a bit of data storage. SRAM is usually expensive regarding the process but can is more efficient, faster and generally faster, efficient and needs less amount of power as compare to DRAM. It is often used as the cache memory for the CPU. Whereas in DRAM, a bit of data is stored that is used under the transistor and capacitor pair, that combines together to form a memory cell. A High or Low charge is present in the capacitor, (1 or 0, respectively), and the function of the ...