CPU Speed Vs. Memory Speed
The CPU performs various operations with the aid of memory. Data is stored in memory then accessed by the CPU as it executes instructions toward an operation. The speed at which the CPU and memory function affect overall computer performance.
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Central Processing Unit (CPU) Speed
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A 3 GHz processor has a clock rate (frequency) of three-billion hertz. The ultimate speed of a processor is determined by how many instructions it can perform within a clock cycle, which is affected by memory, the presence of multiple cores and the use of multi-threading.
Multi-Core and Multi-Threading Processors
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A multi-core CPU contains multiple processors to perform more operations at once without sacrificing performance. A dual-core CPU can perform two simultaneous operations with each core allotted its own memory cache. A core can then take advantage of multi-threading to divide its memory cache toward handling even more instructions at once.
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Random Access Memory
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The random access memory (RAM) of a computer provides the CPU temporary space in which to store data. The “random” part of RAM comes from its function of providing data in any order. Static RAM can store data as long as power is provided to the computer.
Dynamic RAM
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Dynamic RAM (DRAM) is a type of RAM where the stored information must periodically refresh to maintain fidelity. The structure of DRAM incorporates one transistor and two capacitors for each byte of data stored where static RAM uses six transistors per byte. While DRAM is slower than static RAM because it must refresh, the DRAM design allows for greater storage capacity.
Cache Memory
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Cache memory is located near the CPU and contains the most frequently requested data. By providing the CPU with common information, the rate at which instructions are executed is increased.
Memory Speed
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Memory speed is determined by how quickly it can deliver on a data request. Slower memory will take longer to fulfill the CPU's call for specific data. No matter how fast the CPU operates, it is limited by memory speed. However, lack of memory increases the CPU's workload.
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