What is the cache and where can it be?

Beginning users at a certain stage of work on the computer raises such a question: "What is the cache?" There is no single answer to this question. In addition, you must specify the subject area, relative to which it is specified. On the one hand, it can be a very fast memory integrated into a semiconductor chip of the processor, or a chip mounted on a CD-ROM drive. On the other hand, it is a place on a drive that uses an Internet browser for its needs. In any case, this is a memory that increases the speed of your personal computer.

On the hard disk

Now let's look at what a cache is for a LMD drive. Physically, it is a memory chip, which in some cases allows a significant increase in productivity. The more data it can store, the better. To date, this value can be equal for a personal computer from 2 to 64 MB with a multiplicity of 2, and for a laptop it's easier - only 2 modifications with 32 and 64 MB. This memory does not allow you to significantly increase the performance, but it is quite possible to receive an additional 15 percent under certain circumstances.

CPU

Next, find out what the cache is for the processor. In this case, we mean a very fast volatile memory, which is integrated into the semiconductor crystal of the CPU. It stores commands and data most commonly used This element of modern PCs. The newest versions of processors are equipped already with three-level such subsystems of memory. This has a positive effect on system performance.

Drive unit

CD-ROM drives also equip their devices with a cache-such a fast and volatile memory. The benefits of this solution are obvious - increase productivity at minimal cost. Therefore, the answer to the question, what is the cache, will be exactly the same as for the hard disk. This is a chip installed on the drive, which increases the speed of data exchange between the drive and other components of the personal computer.

Browser

All previously considered examples were implemented in hardware. The same case with the browser is done programmatically. The same algorithm is implemented in the operating system "Windows" - and here it is called "swap file". But it's easier to consider the operation of such a memory subsystem with the example of a browser. All the same, but much simpler. Physically - this is the temporary information required by this application for work and which is stored on the hard disk. That is, the browser reserves a place in the process of work and stores data there. If the hardware has such a fixed memory size, then in this case it can be varied. Let's look at the example of the Internet browser "Opera" how to install the cache. To do this, press "Ctrl" and, without releasing it, - "F12". In the window that opens, go to the "Advanced" tab. Then choose "History". There will be a drop-down list of possible memory values, which is reserved for the needs of the application.

Conclusion

Cache memory is an important attribute of modern computers. In one case, it is implemented programmatically, in others it is implemented in hardware. The result of its use is an increase in the performance of the computer system. Without it, it is simply impossible to imagine the work of any modern PC.