Memory layout on a microcontroller (Flash, SRAM, EEPROM) in Embedded C - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is Flash memory used for in a microcontroller?

Flash memory stores the program code and constants. It is non-volatile, so it keeps data even when power is off.

beginner

What is SRAM and what is it used for?

SRAM is fast, volatile memory used for temporary data storage while the program runs. It loses data when power is off.

beginner

What is EEPROM used for in microcontrollers?

EEPROM stores small amounts of data that must be saved even when power is off, like settings or calibration data.

intermediate

How does Flash memory differ from EEPROM?

Flash memory stores program code and is usually larger. EEPROM stores small data and allows byte-level writing, but is slower.

beginner

Why is SRAM considered volatile memory?

SRAM is volatile because it loses all stored data when the microcontroller loses power.

Which memory type in a microcontroller is used to store the program code?

A Flash memory

B SRAM

C EEPROM

D Cache memory

Flash memory stores the program code and constants in a microcontroller.

What happens to data stored in SRAM when the microcontroller is powered off?

A Data is lost

B Data is saved permanently

C Data is copied to Flash

D Data is backed up to EEPROM

SRAM is volatile memory, so it loses data when power is off.

Which memory type is best for storing user settings that must persist after power off?

A SRAM

B Flash

C EEPROM

D Cache

EEPROM is used to store small data like settings that must be saved without power.

Which memory type allows byte-level writing but is slower than Flash?

A SRAM

B Flash

C ROM

D EEPROM

EEPROM allows writing data byte-by-byte but is slower than Flash memory.

Why is Flash memory considered non-volatile?

A It loses data when power is off

B It keeps data without power

C It is very fast

D It is volatile

Flash memory retains data even when the microcontroller is powered off.

Explain the roles of Flash, SRAM, and EEPROM in a microcontroller's memory layout.

Think about what data needs to stay after power off and what is temporary.

Describe why SRAM is called volatile memory and how it differs from Flash and EEPROM.

Focus on data retention and speed differences.