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stored-program

stored-program

1 7.2
A computer system that keeps instructions in memory so it can run different programs
  • adjective
  • /stɔrd ˈprɒɡræm/
  • Specialized
: almacenado
  • Modern laptops are examples of stored-program architectures where instructions are kept in memory.

Examples

  • The stored-program design allows for easier updates and modifications in software.

  • Data flow processors are stored-program computers.

    Academic text (2000)
  • Many stored-program computers can run multiple applications simultaneously.

Surface Forms

stored-program positive

Morphology

stored-program = stored + program (transparent) = store + program + ed

The compound straightforwardly combines 'stored' (store + -ed) and 'program' to mean a program kept in memory, matching standard technical usage.

Etymology

Stored-program joins stored ('kept') and program ('a plan or list of steps'). It comes from the idea of keeping a computer's instructions inside its memory so the machine can change what it does by loading a different program, which is why a stored-program computer keeps its software in memory rather than in fixed parts.