Processors_Memory_Storage_Flashcards

Question 1

What is RAM used for in a computer system?

Answer 1

• RAM stores data and programs currently in use.
• It is volatile, meaning data is lost when the computer is powered off.

Question 2

What is ROM and how is it different from RAM?

Answer 2

ROM stores permanent instructions (e.g., for booting). It is non-volatile and cannot be modified easily.

Question 3

What is cache memory and why is it important?

Answer 3

Cache is high-speed memory near the CPU that stores frequently accessed data, speeding up processing by reducing RAM access.

Question 4

What are registers in the CPU?

Answer 4

Registers are very fast, small memory locations inside the CPU used to store current instructions, data, or memory addresses.

Question 5

What is virtual memory?

Answer 5

Virtual memory is part of the hard drive used as temporary RAM when physical RAM is full. It’s slower than real RAM.

Question 6

What are two modern uses for a GPU besides rendering graphics?

Answer 6

Machine learning model training and scientific simulations, due to GPU’s parallel processing capabilities.

Question 7

What do input and output devices do in a computer system?

Answer 7

Input devices send data into the system; output devices present data to the user. Their communication is managed by the OS and drivers.