Computing Revision

Computing Revision

1. Computer Components

   • The purpose of the hard drive is it stores all of the data even when the computer is turned off.
   • The Purpose of the RAM is it speeds up the process of the data currently being used.
   • RAM is volatile, Hard drive is non-volatile
   • The reason why upgrading the RAM will improve the performance because it means that you will be able to have data in use at the same time instead of limited data.

2. Storage devices

   • solid state is used in Ipods or tablets, magnetic is used in hard drives in a PC, optical is used in DVDs or CDs.
   • Advantages
     • solid state: Quicker to transfer data. It has no moving parts so its more likely to not wear out. More chances of surviving if you dropped it.
     • magnetic: Cost effective, if you have loads of files because it's cheaper per GB (Giga Byte).
     • optical: It is the cheapest storage method. It's portable, you are able to play on loads of devices.
   • optical, solid state and magnetic storage
   • Disadvantages
     • optical: Has limited storage space. Can get scratched very easily if not handled with care.
     • magnetic: It has moving parts so it is likely to wear out eventually and is more likely to break if you dropped it. It doesn't transfer data as quick as solid state.
     • solid state: You get less storage space.