# cache on a stick

> module containing SRAM used as an L2 cache in mid-1990s computers

**Wikidata**: [Q1025027](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1025027)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cache_on_a_stick)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cache-on-a-stick

## Summary
Cache on a stick (COASt) is a memory module containing Static Random-Access Memory (SRAM) that was used as an L2 cache in computers during the mid-1990s. It is a discrete printed circuit board designed to reduce the cost of memory access by providing local, dynamically managed memory that mirrors main memory.

## Key Facts
- Cache on a stick is used as an L2 cache.
- It contains Static Random-Access Memory (SRAM).
- It was primarily utilized in computers during the mid-1990s.
- Aliases for cache on a stick include COASt, card edge low profile, CELP, and COAST-Modul.
- Motorola is referenced as its founder.
- It is an instance of a technical standard.
- Cache on a stick is a subclass of a memory module.
- It is related to CPU cache.

## FAQs
### Q: What is a cache on a stick?
A: A cache on a stick is a memory module containing SRAM, specifically designed to function as an L2 cache in computers from the mid-1990s. It is a discrete printed circuit board on which memory chips are mounted.

### Q: What was the primary use of cache on a stick?
A: Its primary use was as an L2 cache, which is a type of dynamically managed local memory that mirrors main memory in a microprocessor. This was intended to reduce the cost of memory access in mid-1990s computers.

### Q: What does SRAM stand for in this context?
A: SRAM stands for Static Random-Access Memory. Cache on a stick modules contain SRAM chips as their core component for fast data storage.

### Q: Who is associated with the founding of cache on a stick?
A: Motorola is referenced as the founder of cache on a stick.

### Q: What are some alternative names for cache on a stick?
A: It is also known by aliases such as COASt, card edge low profile, CELP, and COAST-Modul.

## Why It Matters
Cache on a stick played a significant role in computer architecture during the mid-1990s by providing an external L2 cache solution. As microprocessors became faster, the speed difference between the CPU and main memory grew, creating a performance bottleneck. Cache on a stick modules, by containing fast SRAM, offered a crucial intermediary layer of memory (L2 cache) that could store frequently accessed data closer to the CPU. This reduced the need for the CPU to constantly access slower main memory, thereby improving overall system performance and responsiveness. Its standardized form factor as a "memory module" and "technical standard" allowed for its widespread adoption and integration into various computer systems of the era, making it an important component in the evolution of PC memory hierarchies. It exemplified an approach to enhance performance by strategically placing faster, albeit more expensive, memory where it could have the most impact on reducing memory access costs.

## Notable For
- Its specific form factor as a "stick" module, distinguishing it from integrated or soldered cache solutions.
- Its dedicated role as an L2 cache, utilizing Static Random-Access Memory (SRAM) for high-speed data access.
- Being an instance of a technical standard, facilitating its use across different computer systems.
- Its association with Motorola as a referenced founder.

## Body

### Definition and Purpose
Cache on a stick is a memory module containing Static Random-Access Memory (SRAM). It functions as an L2 cache in computers. This module was primarily used in mid-1990s computers. Its purpose was to provide dynamically managed local memory that mirrors main memory in a microprocessor, thereby reducing the cost of memory access.

### Components
The module contains SRAM chips. These chips are mounted on a discrete printed circuit board. It is considered to have parts such as static random-access memory and L2 cache.

### Classification and Standards
Cache on a stick is an instance of a technical standard. It is classified as a subclass of a memory module. It is also related to CPU cache, which is a broader class of local memory designed to reduce access costs.

### Aliases
The entity is known by several aliases, including COASt, card edge low profile, CELP, and COAST-Modul.

### Origin
Motorola is referenced as the founder of cache on a stick.