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+ | == Definition == |
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− | {{stub}} |
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+ | A '''buffer''' is |
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+ | {{Quote|a block of [[memory]] that temporarily holds [[data]] and allows the [[data]] to be read or written in larger chunks to improve a [[computer]]’s performance. The buffer is used for temporary [[storage]] of [[data]] read from or waiting to be sent to a [[device]] such as a [[hard disk]], [[CD-ROM]], [[printer]], or [[tape drive]].<ref>[[Electronic Crime Scene Investigation: A Guide for First Responders]], at 50.</ref>}} |
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+ | == Overview == |
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+ | |||
⚫ | Buffers are used to offset differences between the operating speeds of different devices, such as a [[printer]] and a [[computer]]. Buffers are used for many purposes, such as (a) [[interconnect]]ing two [[digital]] circuits operating at different rates, (b) holding [[data]] for use at a later time, (c) allowing timing corrections to be made on a [[data stream]], (d) [[data collection|collecting]] [[binary data]] [[bit]]s into groups that can then be operated on as a unit, (e) delaying the transit time of a [[signal]] in order to allow other operations to occur. |
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+ | == References == |
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+ | <references /> |
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[[Category:Hardware]] |
[[Category:Hardware]] |
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+ | [[Category:Storage]] |
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+ | [[Category:Computing]] |
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+ | [[Category:Definition]] |
Latest revision as of 17:18, 1 April 2013
Definition[]
A buffer is
“ | a block of memory that temporarily holds data and allows the data to be read or written in larger chunks to improve a computer’s performance. The buffer is used for temporary storage of data read from or waiting to be sent to a device such as a hard disk, CD-ROM, printer, or tape drive.[1] | ” |
Overview[]
Buffers are used to offset differences between the operating speeds of different devices, such as a printer and a computer. Buffers are used for many purposes, such as (a) interconnecting two digital circuits operating at different rates, (b) holding data for use at a later time, (c) allowing timing corrections to be made on a data stream, (d) collecting binary data bits into groups that can then be operated on as a unit, (e) delaying the transit time of a signal in order to allow other operations to occur.