Computer Science Chapter on Primary Storage

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of read-only memory (ROM) in a computer?

  • To store data and instructions for booting the computer (correct)
  • To increase the speed of data processing
  • To provide temporary storage for running applications
  • To allow users to modify and delete stored data

Which of the following statements about RAM is accurate?

  • RAM can be easily replaced with read-only memory for cost saving.
  • RAM is nonvolatile, retaining data when the power is turned off.
  • RAM is a major factor impacting the final cost of a computer. (correct)
  • RAM storage capacity for professionals in 2019 can only reach up to 4 GB.

What distinguishes erasable programmable ROM (EPROM) from programmable ROM (PROM)?

  • EPROM is inherently slower in data retrieval than PROM.
  • EPROM is used strictly for booting processes, while PROM is used for application storage.
  • EPROM allows data to be deleted and reprogrammed, whereas PROM cannot be modified after its initial programming. (correct)
  • EPROM can only be programmed once, while PROM can be reprogrammed multiple times.

Which of the following best describes secondary storage?

<p>It retains data when the power is turned off and is more permanent than main memory. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following types of storage is classified as secondary storage?

<p>Flash memory (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the control unit (CU) within the CPU?

<p>To manage and coordinate all activities within the CPU (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of memory is classified as volatile and loses its data when the power is turned off?

<p>Random-Access Memory (RAM) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the two main types of memory chips found in primary storage?

<p>Random-Access Memory (RAM) and Read-Only Memory (ROM) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When a computer is turned on, where is the data and instructions that the CPU processes immediately stored?

<p>In primary storage (main memory) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does RAM play in the processing of applications like word processors or spreadsheets?

<p>It holds application programs temporarily while processing (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why must data be loaded into RAM before it can be processed by the CPU?

<p>RAM has a faster access speed compared to secondary storage (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of Read-Only Memory (ROM)?

<p>It retains data permanently even when powered off (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about primary storage is TRUE?

<p>It is directly accessible by the CPU for processing tasks. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

Primary Storage

  • Primary storage is directly accessible to the CPU and holds data and instructions being processed.
  • Also known as main memory or immediate access store (IMAS).
  • Located on the motherboard and consists of RAM and ROM chips.

Random-access memory (RAM)

  • Filled after a computer is turned on and given a task.
  • Holds data and instructions temporarily during processing.
  • Also holds processed data waiting to be output or stored in secondary storage.
  • Known as working memory.
  • Programs and data from secondary storage must be loaded into RAM before processing.
  • Volatile, meaning data is lost when power is turned off or the computer is rebooted.
  • Limited storage capacity, ranging from 4 GB to 32 GB in 2019.
  • Expensive and significantly affects the price of a computer.

Read-only memory (ROM)

  • Stores data and instructions needed for starting up the computer.
  • Commonly used for system level programs like BIOS.
  • May also hold translators for high-level languages and operating systems.
  • Instructions are fixed at manufacture and considered hard-wired.
  • Nonvolatile, data remains even when the power is off.
  • Crucial for initial startup as system memory is empty.
  • Variations include PROM and EPROM, offering some flexibility in data storage.

Secondary Storage

  • Also known as auxiliary or backup storage.
  • Used to store data and instructions when not being processed.
  • More permanent than main memory, data is retained after power off.
  • Cheaper and has unlimited storage capacity compared to primary storage.
  • Common devices include magnetic disks, optical disks, flash memory, USB drives, and magnetic tapes.

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