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== Definition ==
 
== Definition ==
   
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A '''buffer''' is
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]].<ref>[[U.S. Department of Justice]], [[National Institute of Justice]], [[Electronic Crime Scene Investigation: A Guide for First Responders]] 50 (2d ed. Apr. 2008) ([http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/219941.pdf full-text]).</ref>}}
 
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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>[[U.S. Department of Justice]], [[National Institute of Justice]], [[Electronic Crime Scene Investigation: A Guide for First Responders]] 50 (2d ed. Apr. 2008) ([http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/219941.pdf full-text]).</ref>}}
   
 
== Overview ==
 
== Overview ==

Revision as of 23:38, 2 January 2011

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.

References