Computer Systems - Memory

Question 1

Memory

Answer 1

Memory is a storage space for saved files.

Any form of electronic storage.

Question 2

Why use memory?

Answer 2

It is used most often to identify fast, temporary form of storage
Not used to describe permanent storage devices e.g. USB, Hard Drives

Without memory, data will need to be accessed from The Cloud which will take more time because it is downloaded off the internet.

Question 3

RAM

Answer 3

(random access memory)
the place in a computing device where the OS, application programs and data in current use are kept so they can be quickly reached by the device’s processor.
(volatile)
Storage Capacity: 4GB-16GB

Question 4

NVRAM

Answer 4

(Non-volatile random-access memory)
retains its information when power is turned off (non-volatile).
Similar to RAM
Storage Capacity: 4GB-16GB

Question 5

ROM

Answer 5

(read-only memory) 
Used to store the firmware. 
Modern computers use flash-based ROM. 
Memory cannot be edited, it’s read-only, 
programmed to do a certain job.
Storage Capacity:

Question 6

Cache

Answer 6

Used to store program instructions that are frequently re-referenced by software during operation.
Fast access to these instructions increases the overall speed of the software program.
Close to the processor.
Storage Capacity: 512MB

Question 7

Flash

Answer 7

Electrical (solid state) memory.
No moving parts (more reliable)
You don’t need constant power source
Large capacity.

Question 8

Registers

Answer 8

Very fast storage area close to the CPU. Small storage capacity.
Storage Capacity: 1bit-8bit