Grade 8 IT: Primary Memory (RAM & ROM)

• This lesson is Week 1 of an Information Technology course for Grade 8 students, taking place January 6-10, 2025, and will be taught during two 70-minute periods.
• The topic is Primary Memory, focusing on RAM and ROM

Objectives

• Define RAM, ROM, and their variations like PROM and EPROM
• Compare the characteristics and roles of RAM and ROM in computer storage.
• Explain the importance of RAM and ROM in processing and booting operations

Computer Storage Overview

• Computers require storage to store and retrieve data for processing.
• Primary Storage (Main Memory) and Secondary Storage (external devices like HDD) are the two categories of storage.

Primary Storage - Main Memory

• Data is either temporarily or permanently stored in primary storage for immediate access.
• Includes RAM, ROM, and Hybrid Memory (combining properties of both RAM and ROM).

Introduction to RAM

• RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile or temporary storage for active processes
• The more RAM available, the more data a computer can handle
• RAM holds data sent to devices, e.g. printers
• Adding more RAM can enhance computer performance
• RAM is expensive and impacts computer pricing

Introduction to ROM

• ROM (Read-Only Memory) is non-volatile or permanent storage that is necessary for booting the computer.
• ROM stores Firmware, which guides booting processes.
• ROM's contents are fixed during manufacturing
• PROM and EPROM are variants of ROM

Variations of ROM

• PROM (Programmable ROM) can be written to once after manufacturing.
• EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM) can be rewritten using UV light.
• EEPROM (Electrically Erasable PROM) can be easily rewritten without special equipment.

Key Differences Between RAM and ROM

Hybrid Memory

• Hybrid Memory shares the properties of RAM and ROM
• Can be read and written as needed
• More versatile and faster compared to traditional ROM
• Used in contemporary embedded systems

Importance of RAM and ROM in Storage

• RAM ensures smooth multitasking
• ROM is important so systems startup and any device can function
• RAM and ROM are critical for efficient systems

Booting Up

• ROM stores the bootloader program which is used to initialize the basic hardware components
• The bootloader loads the operating system kernel into the RAM to make the system operational
• RAM acts as temporary space for the operating system to manage resources during startup
• The system cannot start without ROM initializing the bootloader

Saving Data

• When editing a video, the video file is stored temporarily in RAM for quick access and manipulation
• Clicking "Save" will write the changes to a storage device
• Unsaved changes in RAM are lost if the computer shuts down because RAM is volatile
• RAM is needed for its speed and efficiency in real-time editing

Loading Apps

• App code is loaded from storage memory into RAM for execution
• Hybrid memory balances speed and energy efficiency
• LPDDR RAM combined with flash memory are two types of hybrid memory
• System may offload less-used apps or data to the flash memory (acting virtually) to combat needing more RAM that is unavailable
• Hybrid memory helps multitasking and app loading due to it's increased speeds

Quiz Questions:

• Which memory is used for running apps?
• Which memory stores startup instructions?
• Which type of ROM can be erased and reprogrammed?
• “_______ memory is temporary and clears when power is off."
• "The BIOS is stored in _______ memory.”
• “Programs run in _______ memory.”

Homework

• Write a paragraph on the advantages of Hybrid Memory.

Explore primary memory in computers, focusing on RAM and ROM. Understand their roles in data storage, processing, and booting. Learn about the characteristics and importance of each type.