Primary Storage Flashcards
What is ram?
RAM is used for the temporary storage of currently running programs and data, e.g. the operating system, a text editor program. It consists of a large number
of store locations, each of which is identified by a unique address. The
data in each store location can be changed. RAM is volatile – data is
lost when the power is switched off.
What is rom?
ROM is used for the permanent storage of data. The data in each store location cannot be changed. ROM is permanent – data is not lost when the power is switched off.
Example: ROM can be used for storing programs such as the BIOS. The disadvantage of using ROM to store the BIOS is that it cannot be upgraded. The program on your calculator is held on a ROM chip.
What is flash memory?
Flash memory is used for the permanent storage of data. However, the data stored in flash memory can be changed. Flash memory is permanent – data is not lost when the power is switched off.
Example: Flash memory can be used for storing the programs such as the BIOS, which is advantageous as the BIOS can then be upgraded.
What is ram cache memory
RAM Cache memory
RAM Cache memory is used for the temporary storage of frequently accessed data and instructions. It consists of a small number of store locations that can be accessed very quickly by the CPU; it is quicker than RAM. Cache memory is volatile – this means that data is lost when the power is switched off.
