Main memory

main memory \main memory\ n. (Computers)
   The memory in a computer that holds programs and data for
   rapid access during execution of a program; it usually hold
   the largest quantity of rapid-access storage in a computer;
   -- also called {RAM} ({random access memory}. It is
   contrasted to {ROM}, {disk data storage}, {cache},
   {registers} and other forms of data storage.
   [PJC]
    

main memory
main store
primary storage

   <storage, architecture> The {storage device} used by a
   {computer} to hold the currently executing {program} and its
   {working data}.  A modern computer's main memory is built from
   {random-access memory} {integrated circuits}.  In the old days
   {ferrite core memory} was one popular form of main memory,
   leading to the use of the term "{core}" for main memory.

   Computers have several other sorts of memory, distinguished by
   their access time, storage capicity, cost, and the typical
   lifetime or rate of change of the data they hold.  {Registers}
   in the {CPU} are fast, few, expensive and typically change
   every few machine instructions.  Other kinds are {cache},
   {PROM}, {magnetic disk} (which may be used for {virtual
   memory}) and {magnetic tape}.

   (1996-11-04)