Jan 26 2006
Cache - Definition
Cache
* A memory area where frequently accessed data can be stored for rapid access.
* A fast storage buffer in the central processing unit of a computer. Also called cache memory.
* Caching is a technology based on the memory subsystem of your computer. The main purpose of a cache is to accelerate your computer while keeping the price of the computer low. Caching allows you to do your computer tasks more rapidly.
Important facts about caching:
* Cache technology is the use of a faster but smaller memory type to accelerate a slower but larger memory type.
* When using a cache, you must check the cache to see if an item is in there. If it is there, it’s called a cache hit. If not, it is called a cache miss and the computer must wait for a round trip from the larger, slower memory area.
* A cache has some maximum size that is much smaller than the larger storage area.