RAM stores temporary data that is volatile and lost when system shuts down. SRAM uses bistable latching circuitry for fast but expensive storage. DRAM stores data in separate capacitors, slower but cheaper. ROM stores permanent data that can only be read by user. MROM is first ROM type, PROM allows one-time programming
Memory cell is the fundamental building block of computer memory. Stores one bit of binary information by setting to 1 and resetting to 0. Memory cells enable sequential circuits that depend on past inputs
EEPROM is a non-volatile memory that can be erased and reprogrammed individually. Organized as arrays of floating-gate transistors. Uses special programming signals for in-circuit operations. Modern EEPROMs support multi-byte operations
File systems organize data on storage devices like flash drives. FAT32 is oldest and most widely supported format. FAT32 supports all major operating systems. Maximum file size is 4GB, compared to NTFS and ExFAT's unlimited
SanDisk 64GB flash drives show only 32GB after reformatting or creating recovery disk. Issue affects both FAT32 and NTFS formats
Windows Security can scan and remove viruses from flash drives. Microsoft Safety Scanner is a free alternative for Windows 8.1 and earlier. Shortcut viruses hide files and replace them with identical shortcuts. Command Prompt can remove shortcut viruses by deleting files