1.2 – Memory and storage Flashcards
what is RAM
directly access any memory location in random order.
Stores the data which is currently being used. Stores the parts of the program that are running to be used by the CPU.
What is ROM
provides the necessary instructions for communication between various hardware components. Stores the BIOS.
What is primary storage
refers to the memory areas that the CPU can access very quickly. Primary storage is mostly volatile
what is secondary storage
is non-volatile, it’s where all data is stored when not in use. Secondary storage is much slower than primary.
what is volitile
looses data when the computer is switched off
Primary storage examples
Registers
Cache
RAM
ROM
Secondary storage examples:
Hard disks
USB
SD cards
what is virtual memory
enables data that is in RAM and not currently being used to be transferred to the hard disk. This frees up room in RAM for other programs and data.
what are the advantages of virtual memory
allows more programs to be opened even when there’s no space left in RAM
Disadvantages of virtual memory:
Takes time to write the code to the virtual memory
Cause disk thrashing
VM is slower to access than RAM direct (because it has to go back to RAM first)
why is secondary storage needed
To access it again later
To use software
To interact with the computer
what is optical storage
uses a laser to read and write data from a disc. Such as CDs
what is magnetic storage
uses magnetic metal platters. A read/write head reads the disk much like a record. Such as a hard disk.
what is solid state storage
offers fast access as there are no moving parts. Such as a memory stick.
advantages and disadvantages of SSD
they are fast and extremely durable due to no moving parts
