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Order of access

In random access each memory location can be accessed independently of any prior memory access. Main memory, also called random access memory (RAM), floppy disks, hard disks, and CD-ROMs are typical random access media.

In sequential access, access to a memory location depends on prior memory accesses. Typical sequential media are tapes. A memory location on tape can only be accessed after having read the entire tape before the memory location.




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