Week 2 - Computer Memory Basics

Questions and Answers

What is the difference between a ROM chip and a RAM chip? (Select all that apply)

A RAM chip is volatile and will wipe its data in the case of a power failure. (correct)

A RAM chip is non-volatile and will keep its data in the case of a power failure.

A RAM chip stores temporary data. (correct)

A ROM chip stores permanent data. (correct)

A RAM chip stores permanent data.

A ROM chip is non-volatile and will keep its data in the case of a power failure. (correct)

A ROM chip stores temporary data.

A ROM chip is volatile and will wipe its data in the case of a power failure.

Which of these functions does the BIOS perform? (Select all that apply)

Initializes hardware (correct)

Checks what devices are connected to the computer (correct)

Installs drivers

POST (correct)

Where are your BIOS settings stored?

CMOS chip

What is the difference between a traditional BIOS and UEFI? (Select all that apply)

<p>UEFI has better compatibility with newer hardware.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

ROM vs. RAM

ROM (Read-Only Memory) is non-volatile, retaining data during power loss, while RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile and loses data when power is off.
ROM is used to store permanent data, whereas RAM is used for temporary data storage.

Functions of BIOS

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) performs the Power-On Self Test (POST) to ensure the system is functioning correctly upon startup.
BIOS checks all connected devices to the computer to confirm their presence and functionality.
It initializes hardware components essential for booting the operating system.

BIOS Settings Storage

BIOS settings are stored in the CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) chip, allowing configurations to persist even when the computer is powered off.

Traditional BIOS vs UEFI

UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) offers better compatibility with modern hardware compared to traditional BIOS.
UEFI is now the default firmware interface for new computer systems.
Traditional BIOS does not provide the same level of compatibility with newer hardware as UEFI does.
UEFI is designed to establish itself as the new standard for BIOS technology moving forward.

Description

Test your knowledge on the differences between ROM and RAM chips with this quiz based on the Week 2 flashcards. Understand the key characteristics of non-volatile and volatile memory and how they affect data storage. Perfect for anyone looking to reinforce their understanding of computer memory concepts.