Primary Storage (Memory) - Paper 1

Question 1

Why is primary storage important?

Answer 1

Data can be written to and read from primary storage very quickly.
This gives the processor fast access to the data and instructions that the primary memory holds.

Question 2

Define ROM

Answer 2

Read Only Memory is non-volatile primary storage.
It’s contents are usually programmed by the manufacturer and cannot be overwritten.

Question 3

Explain the purpose of ROM.

Answer 3

The BIOS (Basic Input Output System) is stored in the ROM.
It runs as soon as the computer is turned on, checking all hardware is functioning correctly then running the bootstrap loader to load the operating system.

Question 4

Define RAM

Answer 4

Random Access Memory is volatile primary storage.
Data can be stored in a and accessed from any location in the memory.

Question 5

Explain the purpose of RAM.

Answer 5

RAM is used to hold the operating system and any open documents or running programs.

Question 6

Define virtual memory

Answer 6

Virtual memory is the use of secondary storage as additional primary storage.

Question 7

How does virtual memory work?

Answer 7

When new data is required by a full RAM, some existing data is transferred to the hard disk to free up space.
When the data stored in the virtual memory is needed again it is swapped back into RAM.

Question 8

Explain disadvantages of virtual memory.

Answer 8

Swapping data between virtual memory and RAM is extremely slow (compared to using just RAM) as it is located in secondary storage.
Too many interactions with secondary storage can also lead to disk thrashing, with shortens the lifespan its lifespan.