1.2.1 Flashcards
What does volatile mean ?
Give an example
Volatile storage is temporary - data is lost when the device is turned off.
E.g. RAM - short-term
What does non-volatile mean ?
Give an example
Non-volatile storage saves the data even when the device is turned off. Data can be stored long-term and accessed when the device is switched on.
E.g. ROM - long-term
What is primary storage ?
A low-capacity, internal storage that can be directly accessed by the CPU
What are 3 characteristics of primary storage ?
- Very quick
- Typically smaller in size
- Includes RAM and ROM
Why Is primary storage quick, why ?
Because it is directly accessed by the CPU
What are 4 characteristics of primary storage ?
- Slower
- Typically Larger in storage size
- Used for long-term storage of data and files
- Includes magnetic, optical and solid state storage
Why Is secondary storage slow, why ?
Because it is not directly accessed by the CPU
Why Is secondary storage used for long-term storage of data and files ?
Because it is non-volatile (keeps Its contents even when it is powered off)
What is RAM ?
Volatile storage that stores all the programs that are currently running.
What is ROM, and what does it store ?
Non-volatile storage that can’t be change. ROM contains the program to load the operating system when the computer is switched on.
What does the computer do when there is insufficient space in RAM for all the programs ?
Is this virtual memory ?
Computers can use the hard disk drive as an extension of RAM - this is called virtual memory
What happens if new data needs to be stored in RAM ?
Unused data in RAM is moved to the hard drive so the new data can be transferred into RAM.
What happens if original data is required again ?
The original data can be moved back from virtual memory into RAM.
Why is virtual memory beneficial ?
More programs can be run at the same time with less system slow down
