Cache memory uses more buffer space, so access time is faster, right?

Answer 1

You're right in saying access time is faster, but not necessarily because of more buffer space. The data stored in a cache is retrieved more quickly than data stored in main memory, simply because of physcial location. The access time to a cache is much less than to main memory. Therefore, frequently accessed data is normally stored in a cache. I could explain in far more detail, but I think the concept of a cache will become far more clear if you take a look at the below website. It offers an excellent explanation of the purpose and operation of a cache.

Answer 2

In reference to hard disk cache (or disk buffer)....

YES

....because it is controlled by the micro controller in the disk drive which uses it to temporarily store an index of the sectors where frequently accessed data is located .... it does NOT cache the data itself. This is why it is not larger than 16MB.... even if the hard disk is 500GB.

regards,
Philip T

Answer 3

WRONG!!! :)