COMPONENTS OF A WINDOWS DESKTOP

2.2. Random Access Memory

Random Access Memory, or RAM, usually refers to computer chips that temporarily store dynamic data to enhance computer performance while you are working.

In other words, it is the working place of your computer, where active programs and data are loaded so that any time the processor requires them, it doesn't have to fetch them from the hard disk.

Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor Random Access Memory (CMOS RAM)

The CMOS Battery

Motherboards also include a small separate block of memory made from CMOS RAM chips which are kept alive by a battery (known as a CMOS battery) even when the PC‘s power is off. T CMOS devices require very little power to operate.

The CMOS RAM is used to store basic information about the PC‘s configuration, for instance:

•        Floppy disk and hard disk drive types

•        Information about CPURAM size

•        Date and time

•        Serial and parallel port information

•        Plug and Play information

•        Power Saving settings

Other Important data kept in CMOS memory is the time and date, which are updated by a Real-