Chapter_3(Memory and processor) Flashcards
Memory can be accessed faster than secondary storage.
True
What are three types of memory?
- RAM (Random Access Memory)
- ROM (Read Only Memory)
- Flash Memory
From where processor load the software instructions?
Software instructions are loaded into RAM from a computer’s secondary storage which are fetched by the processor to execute them.
Is RAM volatile or non-volatile and, where it is used?
RAM is volatile, meaning that it cannot store data when it has no power and they are used to store program that are in use.
Why more RAM is better?
When more RAM is available, more programs can run at the same time.
What does operating system do, when there is insufficient space in RAM?
Operating system create virtual memory in an area of secondary storage where it take more time for processor to fetch the instructions and execute the programs resulting a big decrease in system performance.
When do programs are removed from RAM?
Programs are removed from RAM, when they are closed or no longer in use.
Can you add more RAM to the system?
Yes but only up to the maximum amount supported by the computer and operating system.
What is ROM and where are they used?
ROM stores data permanently and they are non-volatile, meaning data is not lose when the power is turned off. They are used in computer system with only one program and to boot the system and load the operating system from secondary storage in computers.
Can you change memory in the ROM after manufacture?
No
What does programmable ROM do?
It provides with ability to be written to once.
What are the types of ROM which contents of them can be updated?
- EPROM (Erasable programmable read only memory)
- EEPROM (Electrically erasable programmable read only memory)
How are data stored in EPROM and EEPROM erased?
Data stored in EPROM is removed by exposing it to strong UV light.
Data stored in EEPROM is removed by applying a voltage to one of the pins on the ROM chip.
What are the difference between RAM and ROM?
- RAM is a volatile memory while ROM is non-volatile
- RAM stores data temporarily and ROM stores data permanently
- RAM can be upgraded but ROM can’t
- RAM can swap instructions in and out while ROM can’t
What is flash memory?
Flash memory is a type of EEPROM which doesn’t have moving parts and has fast access time and low power consumption.
Where do flash memory used?
They are often used as removable storage in USB drives and SD cards and in SSDs that are used in portable devices.
Using SSD as secondary storage is better.
True, since data is swapped to and from the SSD quickly and frequently, but frequent data transfer can potentially slow down its peformance.
Although SSD are great secondary storage, what is its one flaw?
Constant data swapping can greatly reduce the performance of SSD.
What does a processor made up of?
A processor is made up of one or more Central Processing Units.
Each CPU can refer to as _____.
Core
What is processor cycle?
The process of fetching a program instruction from memory, decoding the actions required by the instruction and then executing those actions.
How is the processor speed measured?
It is measured in clock cycles per second.
What is clock cycle per second?
It is used to measure processor speed; the number of times per second the processor can carry out one or more instructions.
