Memory Size Equation:
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The memory size calculation determines the total addressable memory space based on the number of address bits and the size of each memory unit. This is fundamental in computer architecture and digital design.
The calculator uses the memory size equation:
Where:
Explanation: Each additional address bit doubles the addressable space. The total memory size is this address space multiplied by the size of each memory unit.
Details: Accurate memory size calculation is crucial for system design, memory allocation, and understanding hardware limitations in computing systems.
Tips: Enter the number of address bits (typically between 8-64 for modern systems) and the unit size or count. Both values must be positive integers.
Q1: What's the relationship between address bits and memory size?
A: Each additional address bit doubles the addressable memory space (exponential growth).
Q2: How many address bits are needed for 1GB memory?
A: For byte-addressable memory, 30 bits (2³⁰ = 1,073,741,824 bytes = 1GB).
Q3: What does the 'Number' represent?
A: It represents the size of each memory unit (e.g., 1 for byte-addressable, 4 for word-addressable with 4-byte words).
Q4: What's the maximum memory with 64-bit addressing?
A: 2⁶⁴ = 16 exabytes (with byte addressing), though practical systems use less.
Q5: How does this relate to physical memory limits?
A: This calculates theoretical maximum addressable space; physical memory may be less due to hardware constraints.