week 3 Flashcards
Define computer memory and explain its purpose in a computer system.
Computer memory is used to store data or programs temporarily or permanently for use by the computer. It enables the computer to execute tasks and store results.
What is the smallest unit of memory in a computer, and how is it represented?
he smallest unit is the bit (binary digit), represented as either 0 or 1.
Differentiate between RAM and ROM in terms of volatility, usage, and cost.
RAM: Volatile, faster, more expensive, used for temporary storage of active data.
ROM: Non-volatile, slower, cheaper, used for permanent storage like the boot process.
Name and describe the three main types of cache memory.
L1 Cache: Fastest, small (e.g., 64KB), embedded in CPU cores.
L2 Cache: Larger than L1, slower but still fast.
L3 Cache: Shared among CPU cores, largest but slower compared to L1 and L2.
Explain the memory hierarchy concerning size, cost, and speed. Why is it important for system performance?
The memory hierarchy ranges from registers (fastest, smallest, most expensive) to secondary storage (slowest, largest, cheapest). It ensures cost-effective and efficient performance.
What are the key features of internal memory compared to secondary memory?
Internal Memory: Faster, volatile, includes registers and cache.
Secondary Memory: Non-volatile, larger, cheaper, used for long-term storage.
What are the primary differences between SRAM and DRAM?
SRAM: Faster, uses flip-flops, no refreshing, smaller capacity.
DRAM: Slower, uses capacitors, requires refreshing, larger capacity.
Describe the use of EPROM and EEPROM. How are they different from each other?
EPROM: Data erased with UV light, reprogrammable once.
EEPROM: Data erased electronically, reprogrammable multiple times.
Compare random access, direct access, and sequential access. Give examples of memory types for each.
Random Access: Independent of location (e.g., RAM, cache).
Direct Access: Depends on proximity (e.g., HDD, optical disks).
Sequential Access: Data read sequentially (e.g., magnetic tapes).
What is virtual memory, and how does it enhance multitasking in a computer system?
Virtual memory combines RAM and disk storage, enabling multitasking and preventing “out of memory” errors by using paging or segmentation.
What is a cache miss, and how does the presence of L3 cache help reduce its occurrence?
A cache miss occurs when data isn’t found in cache memory. L3 cache helps by providing a larger storage pool, reducing CPU dependency on slower main memory.
Describe the concept of paging and segmentation in virtual memory management.
Paging: Fixed-size memory blocks.
Segmentation: Variable-size memory blocks.
Mention an example of where FPM and EDO DRAM were used historically.
FPM: Used in older PCs and devices like Sega Genesis.
EDO DRAM: Found in Pentium Series PCs and Nintendo 64.
Provide examples of devices that utilize Flash ROM.
Flash ROM is used in smartphones (e.g., iPhone), USB drives, and laptops.
Explain how RAM is used during the execution of a program.
RAM temporarily stores the operating system, application programs, and active data while executing a program.
Why is secondary memory considered non-volatile, and what are its advantages?
Secondary memory is non-volatile because data persists after power loss. It is cost-effective for large-scale storage.
