RAM, ROM and Virtual Memory

RAM, ROM and Virtual Memory

1. Random Access Memory

   • Read Only Memory
     • ROM stores data continuosly even if the computer is turned off meaning that it isn't volatile.
       • It also stores the boot up instruction (BIOS) which makes your computer starts.
         • You can't write ROM only read whereas with RAM you cant read it but can write it.
           • It takes a lot longer to store data in ROM, but it has a lot more storage and isn't volatile.
             • ROM looks a bit like a rectangular black centipede with a chip in.

2. RAM only works when your computer is on or has a power source going into it.

   • RAM is volatile meaning that it loses all it's memory and data when the computer is turned off.
     • RAM stores all data from running programs and applications as it is close by and is easy to reach.
       • RAM looks like a small rectangular microchip with 8 black blocks, which is located near the CPU.
         • It is faster to store data in RAM however it is only temporary.

3. Virtual memory

   • Can be used as an extra slot of storage on your RAM or other places and it also turns virtual addresses, hence the name, into physical addresses.
     • The 'less used' data from the RAM is transferred into the virtual memory, while data needed by the CPU is put in the RAM.
       • Virtual Memory is just an extension block on the end of the RAM or data store.

4. secondary storage

   • magnetic
     • Cheaper, can hold lots of data however can easily be scratched or destoyed
     • manipulates magnetic fields to read tracks on cd
   • Solid state
     • no moving parts, lots of data
     • Durable and very portable
   • Optical
     • Uses lasers to read tracks on dvds and so on
     • doesn't store much data however its portable

5. Cores

   • These help the cpu complete the fetch decode cycle a lot quicker

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