Built in Memory vs Main Memory

WAD · 12-31-03, 10:27 AM

Well I was installing stuff on my ppc and I really don't understand what the difference is between Main Memory and Built in Memory and how much I have of each...

is main memory the ROM???

thanks for help

Magicmonger · 12-31-03, 10:31 AM

Built-in memory is the left over ROM memory after the OS was installed. This can be used to store things such as backups and the like. Main memory is actual RAM memory that can be used to store and run programs loaded onto your Axim.

WAD · 12-31-03, 10:33 AM

can i install programs on the ROM and it won't affect my RAM?

b/c im trying to free up as much RAM as possible for more resource driven programs...

Magicmonger · 12-31-03, 10:35 AM

ROM can be used to store programs. The nice thing about your built-in memory is if you ever have to hard reset it never gets deleted unless you delete it on purpose.

WAD · 12-31-03, 10:37 AM

thanks a bunch magicmonger....

any idea on how much ROM there is left over?

12-31-03, 10:53 AM

Main Memory is RAM. If you go to StartSettings>System>Memory you will see that it is divided automatically into two sections - Storage, where programs can be stored and Program where any programs actually running are loaded. On top of that each section will show how much is "in use" and how much is "free".

Wherever programs are stored, they are always run in RAM program memory.

The problem with RAM is that is is volatile. Normally the Axim never completely switches off and there is a power supply maintained to the RAM, so that, even when the Power Off button is pressed the contents of RAM are maintained. However if you lose all battery power (by removing both batteries in a X5 or removing the main battery and allowing the backup battery to run flat in an X3) then all the contents of RAM will be wiped, including any programs which are stored there. The same thing will happen after a hard reset. This is why it is highly advisable to make a backup frequently, using Programs> Data backup.

The Axim also has ROM (tehcnically EEPROM or Flash EPROM) which is not voltile and is not wiped either by battery power loss or a hard reset. For this reason the Operating System (either PPC 2002 or WM 2003) is stored in ROM, but this does not fully occupy the whole of the ROM. The unused space is called Built-in-Storage and is also non volatile. Because of this it is a very good place to put your backups if they will fit. The size of BIS will vary depending on which Model of Axim you have - X3 or X5 and Basic or Advanced. Again use Settings>System>Memory> Storage Card> Built-in-Storage to show you how much BIS you have and how much is in use and free.

I hope that this is reasonably clear. If not please come back with further queries.

I see that Magicmonger has also replied while I was drafting this rather long (too long ?) post.