Memory concept   
4.1 Memory areas and retentivity 
  CPU 31xC and CPU 31x, Technical Data 
4-2  Manual, 01/2006 Edition, A5E00105475-06 
System memory 
The RAM system memory is integrated in the CPU and cannot be expanded. 
It contains 
•  the address areas for address area memory bits, timers and counters 
•  the process image of the I/Os 
•  local data 
RAM 
The RAM is integrated in the CPU and cannot be extended. It is used to run the code and 
process user program data. Programs only run in RAM and system memory.  
Table 4-1  Retentivity of the RAM 
All CPUs except: CPU 317, CPU 319  RAM is always retentive. 
317  256 KB of RAM can be used 
for retentive data modules. 
319  700 KB of RAM can be used 
for retentive data modules.  
 
 
4.1.2  Retentivity of load memory, system memory and RAM 
Your CPU is equipped with a service-free retentive memory, i.e. its operation does not 
require a buffer battery. Data is kept in retentive memory across POWER OFF and 
restart (warm start).  
Retentive data in load memory 
Your program in load memory is always retentive: It is stored on the SIMATIC Micro Memory 
Card, where it is protected against power failure or CPU memory restart 
Retentive data in system memory 
In your configuration (Properties of CPU, Retentivity tab), specify which part of memory bits, 
timers and counters should be kept retentive and which of them are to be initialized with "0" 
on restart (warm restart). 
The diagnostic buffer, MPI address (and transmission rate) and operating hour counter data 
are generally written to the retentive memory area on the CPU. Retentivity of the MPI 
address and baud rate ensures that your CPU can continue to communicate, even after a 
power loss, memory reset or loss of communication parameters (e.g. due to removal of the 
SIMATIC Micro Memory Card or deletion of communication parameters).