Computer Storage Hierarchy and Characteristics

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Questions and Answers

In a sequential access storage system, what is the process of data retrieval?

Data is retrieved in a sequence, searching through prior data

Which of the following storage devices uses sequential access?

Magnetic tape

What is a characteristic of direct access storage?

Each storage position has a unique address

What is an advantage of direct access storage over sequential access storage?

Data can be accessed in a shorter amount of time Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between sequential access and direct access storage?

The method of data retrieval Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a direct access storage device?

Semiconductor memory chips Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the cost per byte as the number of bytes increases in secondary storage?

It becomes less expensive Signup and view all the answers

How does the CPU access secondary storage?

Through input/output channels and primary storage Signup and view all the answers

What is the access time of a given byte of information stored on a HDD?

Milliseconds Signup and view all the answers

How do hard disks compare to primary memory (RAM) in terms of access time?

They are about a million times slower Signup and view all the answers

What is the access time of a given byte of information stored in RAM?

Nanoseconds Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary advantage of off-line storage in terms of information security?

It is physically inaccessible from a computer. Signup and view all the answers

What is a disadvantage of using Magnetic Tapes for off-line storage?

They are prone to physical damage. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of off-line storage when used for archival purposes?

It is less expensive than tertiary storage. Signup and view all the answers

What is a type of storage device that is often used for off-line storage?

Magnetic Tapes Signup and view all the answers

What are the two components that make up the access time of secondary storage?

Seek time and rotational latency Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of Sequential Access Storage?

It requires sequential access to data. Signup and view all the answers

What is an advantage of using Solid State Devices (SSD) over other storage devices?

They are faster and more scalable. Signup and view all the answers

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