Properties of Flash Memory
Computer Science: OCR A Level, topic 1.3.13
Properties of Flash Memory
Flash memory is a type of memory technology that can be used to create primary or secondary storage. It is commonly used to make Read-Only Memory (ROM), and Solid State Drives (SSDs).
Non-volatile
- Flash memory is non-volatile. This means that it will keep its contents once power is switched off.
Short lifetime
- Flash memory can only be flashed (re-written) a certain number of times before it starts to degrade.
- We may lose access to the drive once the flash memory has degraded past a point.
- Re-writable devices often include several blocks of flash memory. This means that only one block must be flashed at a time and so the device will last longer.
Fast access
- Flash memory is significantly faster than many other storage media such as Hard Disk Drives (HDDs).
- This is partly because flash memory does not have any moving parts, and so we do not need to wait for parts to move before we can access the drive.
Robust
- Flash memory is not easily damaged by shocks.
- Flash memory is appropriate in scenarios where it might be exposed to lots of vibrations. For example:
- Industrial machinery.
- Vehicles.
Test yourself on Properties of Flash Memory
Is flash memory volatile or non-volatile?