When it comes to the spelling of "external memory," the key is to break it down into its component sounds. Using IPA phonetic transcription, we can see that "external" is spelled /ɛksˈtɜːrnəl/, with stress on the second syllable. Meanwhile, "memory" is spelled /ˈmeməri/, with stress on the first syllable. Combining these two parts, we get "external memory" /ɛksˈtɜːrnəl ˈmeməri/. This type of memory is an essential component of many electronic devices, including computers and smartphones.
External memory refers to a storage device or medium that is not directly connected to a computer's central processing unit (CPU) but can be accessed for storing and retrieving data. It serves as an additional storage solution that expands a computer's capacity beyond its internal memory.
External memory is typically portable and detachable, allowing users to easily transfer data between different locations or devices. It can take various forms, including external hard drives, solid-state drives (SSDs), USB flash drives, memory cards, optical discs (such as CDs or DVDs), or network-attached storage (NAS) devices.
External memory offers benefits such as increased storage capacity, data backup and recovery options, and the ability to share or transfer files between different computers or devices. It is commonly used to store large files such as documents, photos, videos, or software applications when the internal memory of a device becomes insufficient.
The access speed of external memory may vary depending on the type of storage medium or the interface used for data transfer. For example, solid-state drives generally offer faster read and write speeds compared to traditional hard disk drives. Different devices or operating systems may have specific compatibility requirements or limitations when working with external memory.
Overall, external memory serves as a valuable tool for extending a computer's storage capabilities, providing flexibility, portability, and convenience for managing and accessing data.
The etymology of the word "external memory" can be understood by breaking down the individual terms:
1. External: It comes from the Latin word "externus", meaning "outer" or "pertaining to the outside". The term evolved from the combination of "ex", meaning "out of", and "ternus", meaning "three times". This evolution occurred because "externus" was used to refer to something outward, going beyond the limit of two directions, and therefore, three times.
2. Memory: It originates from the Latin word "memoria", which relates to "the faculty of the mind to store and recall information". The term "memoria" is connected to "memor", meaning "mindful" or "remembering". It is derived from the Indo-European root "mer", which conveys the sense of thinking, awareness, and remembrance.