Definition

1. Noun:
   • (Computer Science) A type of computer memory consisting of an array of magnetic cores: "Core memory" refers to a historical, non-volatile data storage technology that uses tiny magnetizable ferrite rings (cores) to store binary data. It is now obsolete, having been replaced by semiconductor-based memory technologies.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Early mainframe computers relied on core memory for data storage.
  • The programmer had to understand the physical layout of the core memory array.
  • Core memory was prized for its non-volatility, meaning it retained data when power was off.

Advanced Usage

• Technical Context: The term is primarily used in historical or technical discussions about computer architecture.
  • The museum's exhibit on computing history featured a working panel of core memory.

Variants and Related Words

• Core (noun, in this context): The individual magnetizable ring within a core memory system.
  • Each core could store a single bit of information.
• Magnetic-core memory: A fuller, more descriptive term for the same technology.
• Ferrite-core memory: Another synonym emphasizing the material (ferrite) of the cores.

Synonyms

• Magnetic-core storage
• Ferrite-core memory

Notes on Usage

• Obsolete Technology: "Core memory" is almost exclusively used in the past tense or in historical reference. It is not used to describe modern computer components.
• Specificity: The term is highly specific to computer hardware history. It is not a general term for memory or a computer's central processing unit (CPU core).

Noun

1. (computer science) a computer memory consisting of an array of magnetic cores; now superseded by semiconductor memories