CS - 1.2 Memory and Storage

What does RAM stand for, and what does it do?

Random Access Memory. Stores open computer application instruction.

What does ROM stand for, and what does it do?

Read Only memory. Stores start up instruction such as Bias and Bootstrap.

Which of the following is volatile and which is non-volatile?

RAM is Volatile, because it loses data when the computer shuts off.

ROM is Non-Volatile, because it retains its data when the computer is turned off.

What’s Virtual Memory? What are the advantage and disadvantage?

Virtual memory sections of an area of secondary storage to be used as extra memory for RAM (when it’s full).

The advantage is that it offers extra memory. The disadvantage is that it’s very slower than RAM

How does Virtual Memory work? [6 Marks]

Firstly the user opens various applications on their computer, which makes RAM full (✔). a section of secondary storage is then sectioned to act as RAM (✔). Secondly, any least user application are transferred from RAM to Virtual Memory (✔). Virtual memory offers extra memory, this means the user can open more applications (✔). Finally, the application are transferred back from Virtual memory to RAM when needed again. (✔)

What’s Secondary Storage? Name 3 main secondary storage devices.

Secondary Storage is non-volatile storage that stores data permanently.

Types:

• Optical

• Solid State

• Magnetic Hard drive

What is Lossy Compression and Lossless Compression.

Lossy compression reduces the file size by removing data permanently. Data is not restorable.

Lossless compression reduces file size whilst all data is kept. Data is restorable