Of memories and memory and yet more memory

Article Abstract:

Mr K. one day quite unexpectedly found himself possessed of a microcomputer endowed with 40Mbytes of memory, or so he thought. For like many people, K. was completely unaware of the minute technical distinctions that must be made when considering microcomputer memory. Indeed, K. did not even know that a megabyte consists of over a million bytes, while a byte comprises eight bits of binary information. Nor was K. aware that his 40Mbytes refers to the amount of storage memory located on his computer's hard disk drive, not to its main or system memory, also know as RAM (random access memory). K.'s machine in fact has only 1Mbyte of RAM. If storage memory is like a newspaper, RAM is like the page K. is currently reading. His brain is the computer's microprocessor. K. must also consider read-only memory (ROM), which, like the part of his brain that controls his appendages as they turn the page, is kept safely beyond his ken. K. will likewise only get the chance to read about video RAM (VRAM) in a future edition of the paper.

Computer storage devices, Computer memory, Column, Design and construction, RAM, RAM (Random access memory), Disk drives, Hard disk drives, Memory (Computers), Computer Design, Hard Disk Drive, ROM, Auxiliary Memory, VRAM

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Now, where to buy it?

Article Abstract:

After deciding which microcomputer to buy, the next thing to do is to decide where to buy it. Various kinds of stores sell microcomputers: electronics stores, computer superstores, small computer 'boutiques,' chain stores, mail-order outlets and others. Sales outlets in the computer industry are referred to collectively as the 'channel,' and the channel is changing fast. Many kinds of outlets are struggling or disappearing. Superstores and direct-sales companies are the kinds of outlet that are doing well. Direct-sales companies, such as Dell Computer Corp, Compuadd Corp, Gateway 2000 Inc, Zeos International Inc and Northgate Computer Systems Inc accept orders via the telephone. Direct-sales companies are often the best choice: their products tend to cost less and work best, and their support and services are often superior. Some direct-sales companies now offer no-frills bargain microcomputers at the lowest prices.

Buyers Guide, Distribution channels, Purchases, Low Cost, Retail/Reseller Channel

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