Memory Flashcards
Information on cache
Cache is a small amount of memory which is part of the CPU. It is used to temporarily hold instructions and data that the CPU will likely reuse. Cache is closer to the CPU compared to the RAM which is why the CPU automatically checks the cache first before going to the RAM to see if there are any instructions or data which can be reused within it’s current process rather than fetching them again from the RAM because that is a slower process.
Information on RAM
RAM shortened from random access memory is a piece of hardware that allows information to be stored and retrieved on the computer. Information can be accessed randomly on the computer which is why it is very fast. RAM is volatile which means its contents are wiped when the computer has no power. RAM is primary memory.
Information on ROM
Read-only memory is data that is written and cannot be edited or removed but read. Unlike main memory (RAM) ROM is non-volatile which means it retains its contents when the computer has no power. ROM stores the instructions for the computer to start up the next time it’s used. The BIOS (basic input/output system) is a type of ROM.
What is cache?
Cache is a small amount of memory which part of the CPU.
What does cache?
It is used to temporarily hold instructions and data that the CPU will likely reuse.
What is RAM?
RAM is a piece of hardware that allows information to be stored and retrieved on the computer.
Why is RAM used?
Information can be accessed randomly on the computer which is why it is very fast.
Is RAM primary or secondary storage?
Primary storage
Give one disadvantage of RAM.
RAM is volatile which means its contents are wiped when the computer has no power.
What is ROM?
Read-only memory is data that is written and cannot be edited or removed but read.
One advantage of ROM.
ROM is non-volatile which means it retains its contents when the computer has no power.
Give one example of ROM.
The BIOS (basic input/output system) is a type of ROM.
What is ROM used for?
ROM stores the instructions for the computer to start up the next time it’s used.
