1.2.1 - Computer Memory

ROM stands for...

• Read Optical Memory
• Random Only Memory
• Read Only Memory
• Random Optical Memory

RAM stands for ...

• Read Access Memory
• Random Application Memory
• Read Application Memory
• Random Access Memory

A computer has 1024 megabytes of RAM. That is the same as ...

• 1 Gb
• 1000 Gb
• 1 Kb
• 1 Tb

The characteristics of RAM are it is .....

• Permanent, non-volatile, not expandable and you can't write to it
• Temporary, volatile, expandable and you can write to it.

This memory stores the data of the operating system and programs that are currently running, for access by the CPU.

• RAM
• ROM
• Cache memory
• Flash memory

Why is ROM need in a computer system?

• It stores the 'bootstrap loader' which is needed to load the operating system.Without it, the computer wouldn't turn on.
• It stores the data of the operating system and programs that are currently running, for access by the CPU.

This is a method of making a computer appear to have more primary memory than it has really has physically. For instance a PC might have 2Gb of RAM as primary memory, but ___ of 4Gb.  If a computer relies on this memory it will be slow.

• Virtual Memory
• Random Access Memory
• Read Only Memory
• Cache Memory

Why is Virtual Memory needed in a computer system?

• It is used as a fast type of memory for programs currently in use to speed up the performance of a computer.
• When several programs run at the same time, the RAM can be full. Instead of closing programs the Operating system uses virtual memory to store some data.

Where is data stored when it is Virtual Memory?

• It is stored on a area of a secondary storage device e.g. hard disk drive.
• It is stored in the RAM.
• It is stored in the ROM.
• It is stored in an optical drive e.g. CD.

What is a disadvantage of Virtual Memory?

• Read/Write speed of a hard disk drive is slower than RAM. If the computer has to rely on this, the system is much slower.
• Read/Write speeds of a hard drive are faster than RAM, meaning the system is much faster.