Memory And Storage Flashcards
What is the difference between primary and secondary storage?
Primary storage (e.g., RAM, ROM) is fast, directly accessible by the CPU, and volatile (RAM). Secondary storage (e.g., HDD, SSD) is non-volatile and used for long-term data storage.
What is the purpose of RAM?
RAM (Random Access Memory) temporarily stores data and instructions that are in use. It is volatile, meaning data is lost when the power is turned off.
What is ROM and what is stored in it?
ROM (Read Only Memory) is non-volatile memory that stores the BIOS and startup instructions needed to boot the computer.
What is virtual memory and when is it used?
Virtual memory is part of the hard drive used as if it were RAM when physical RAM is full. It slows performance but prevents crashes.
What are the characteristics used to compare types of storage?
Capacity: Amount of data that can be stored
Speed: How fast data can be accessed
Portability: How easily it can be moved
Durability: Resistance to damage
Reliability: Consistency over time
Cost: Price per GB
What are the three main types of secondary storage?
- Magnetic (e.g., HDDs)
- Optical (e.g., CDs, DVDs)
- Solid State (e.g., SSDs, USB sticks)
What are the advantages and disadvantages of magnetic storage?
Advantages: Large capacity, low cost per GB
Disadvantages: Slower than SSDs, easily damaged if dropped
What are the advantages and disadvantages of optical storage?
Advantages: Cheap, portable, good for distribution
Disadvantages: Limited capacity, slower access, easily scratched
What are the advantages and disadvantages of solid-state storage?
Advantages: Fast access speed, no moving parts, durable
Disadvantages: More expensive per GB than magnetic
What is cloud storage?
Cloud storage saves data on remote servers accessed via the internet, managed by third-party providers.
What are the pros and cons of cloud storage?
Pros: Accessible anywhere, automatic backups, scalable
Cons: Needs internet, less control over security, ongoing costs
What is a storage device?
A hardware device used to store data, such as HDDs, SSDs, USB sticks, CDs, or cloud servers.
