Chapter 3-1

Chapter 3-1

Understanding Computer Storage​

• explain the need for storage devices for computers

• distinguish between memory and storage

• distinguish between storage devices and media​

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Objectives

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​Computer Storage Devices

• storage devices - the computer's hardware components that retain data even after the power is turned off

• without storage devices, you would have to re-create all of your work every time you wanted to use it

• file - a collection of related information which has been given a unique name

• Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) - a set of programs that tells the computer equipment how to start up​

Memory and Storage

• memory - a set of chips that acts as a temporary workspace in the computer

• Random Access Memory (RAM)

  • temporary storage

  • if the computer loses power, RAM's contents are lost

  • holds data and programs while they are being used

• Read Only Memory (ROM)

  • permanent storage​

  • stores its contents, even when the computer is off

  • stores instructions that are needed only by the computer

Memory and Storage

​Storage versus Memory

• the two work differently

  • RAM uses chips to temporarily store information

  • ​Storage uses different methods to store data permanently

• A PC has more storage capacity than memory​

Storage Media & Devices

Storage Media

• an object that physically holds data or program instructions

• examples: floppy disks, magnetic tapes, compact disks,

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Storage​ Devices

• a piece of hardware that holds the storage media, sends data to the media, and retrieves data from the media

• examples: floppy disk drives, hard drives, CD-ROM/DVD drives​

Multiple Choice

stores its contents permanently, even when the computer is turned off

• Random Access Memory (RAM)

• Read Only Memory (ROM)

Multiple Choice

if the computer loses power, its contents are lost

• Random Access Memory (RAM)

• Read Only Memory (ROM)

Multiple Choice

holds data and programs while they are being used

• Random Access Memory (RAM)

• Read Only Memory (ROM)

Multiple Choice

stores instructions that are only needed by the computer

• Random Access Memory (RAM)

• Read Only Memory (ROM)

Multiple Choice

an object that physically holds data or program instructions

• storage media

• storage device

Multiple Choice

examples include floppy disks, magnetic tapes, and compact disks

• storage media

• storage device

Multiple Choice

hardware that holds the storage media

• storage media

• storage device

Multiple Choice

examples include floppy disk drive, hard drive, CD/DVD drive

• storage media

• storage device