Questions and Answers
What is the main purpose of main memory (RAM)?
To temporarily store data for processing, instructions to process data, and information to be sent to an output device or secondary storage device.
Main memory is considered non-volatile memory.
False
What happens to the information stored in main memory when the computer is turned off?
It is erased.
What are secondary storage devices primarily used for?
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What is an example of a secondary storage device?
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How does the capacity of secondary storage devices compare to main memory?
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It is faster for the CPU to access data stored in auxiliary storage than in memory.
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How does the CPU access data stored in secondary storage?
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What happens to data and results after the CPU processes them?
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Study Notes
Main Memory (RAM)
- Temporarily holds data for processing, instructions for data processing, and processed information for output devices or secondary storage.
- Volatile memory: all stored information is erased when the computer is turned off, leading to loss of any unsaved data.
Auxiliary Store (Backing Store/Secondary Storage)
- Contains programs and data not immediately in use, providing a larger capacity for storage compared to main memory.
- Secondary storage is slower than RAM, making it less ideal for immediate data processing.
- Typically utilizes mass storage devices, such as magnetic disks, for permanent data storage.
Data Access and Processing
- CPU access speeds to data in memory are significantly quicker than to data on auxiliary storage devices.
- To work with data, the CPU first retrieves information from secondary storage and transfers it to main memory (RAM).
- The retrieval process from auxiliary storage to main memory is indirect and requires additional time compared to accessing data stored in RAM.
- After processing the data, the CPU saves both the original data and the results back onto auxiliary storage for long-term storage and safekeeping.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the types of computer memory including main memory (RAM) and auxiliary storage. Understand the differences between volatile and non-volatile memory and their purposes in data processing and storage.
