1.1.3 // Input, Output & Storage Flashcards
1.
What do RAM and ROM stand for?
- Random Access Memory
- Read-Only Memory
Describe the properties of ROM and what it may contain.
- Non-Volatile (Will not lose memory when powered off)
Usually contains: - BIOS: Basic Input Output System
- Startup instructions that boot up the computer
- Checks hardware is working through the POST (Power On Self Test)
BIOS, Bootstrapper and POST!
Describe the properties of RAM and what it may contain.
- Volatile (Will lose stored memory on poweroff).
- Can be read from and written to quickly.
Usually contains:
* OS (Operating System) that gets loaded into RAM from the HDD.
* Running programs / Software in use
* Data currently in use by the software.
OS, Programs, and Data in Use!
Remember, there are primary and secondary storage types.
Talk about the HDD, and how it may read/write data.
- Secondary storage type
- Magnetic storage
- It has magnetic platters that spin while data is read/written by drive heads; drive heads only do so if under the right sector (part of the concentric platter).
What is Disk Latency?
The delay between a data r/wr request and the storage device’s response.
What is Seek Delay?
This is a type of Disk Latency.
The time the drive head takes to move across the disk to the appropriate track.
What is Rotational Delay?
This is a type of Disk Latency.
The time the disk takes to move the correct sector underneath the r/wr head.
What is Transfer Time?
This is a type of Disk Latency.
The time taken for the data transfer out of the storage device.
What is Cloud Storage?
Offshore data storage on servers usually using magnetic or SSD methods of storage, ran by subscription-based businesses.
What are some benefits of using Cloud Storage over physical storage?
- Accessibility: Data can be accessed on any device with internet connection.
- Scalability: Data capacity can easily be changed with customer needs.
- Security: Data is frequently backed up, ensuring data security in times of breaches or system failure.
What are some drawbacks of using Cloud Storage over physical storage?
- Dependence on Internet: Accessing data needs a stable internet connection.
- Security Concerns: Breaches or unauthorised accesses may happen, compromising sensitive user data.
- Ongoing Cost: Unlike physical storage, subscription costs may accumulate over time.
Describe the structure of the SSD.
A Solid State Drive contains millions of NAND Flash Memory Cells (organised in pages & blocks) managed by a controller that handles data access.
Describe how the SSD may read/write data.
- When reading, the SSD retrieves data directly from memory cells (no mechanical movement!)
- When writing, contents of a block are first erased (even if writing to one page); slowing down write speeds
What are some benefits of using an SSD over HDDs?
- Speed: r/wr speeds are much faster than traditional HDDs; they have quicker boot times, file transfers and application loading speeds.
- Durability: Reduced impact on data and transfer speeds when physically hit, as an SSD has no moving parts.
- Energy Efficiency: They consume less power than HDDs, extending battery life and reducing energy costs over time.
What are some drawbacks of using an SSD over HDDs?
(I only wrote 2)
- Cost per GB: SSDs are more expensive than HDDs per GB, making high-capacity SSDs less affordable for users on a budget.
- Limited Write Cycles: SSDs have a limited number of wr/erase cycles, causing degradation over time. This is less of an issue for casual users.
