Chapter 7 ICT

Chapter 7 ICT

1. Storage of the operating system

   • Most personal computers store the operating system (OS) on a hard disk or flash memory. Hard disks are the most common because they have a huge storage capacity and very fast access times so that all the software can be loaded quickly. Flash memory is used in small computer systems like netbooks or smart phones because it requires less power, takes up less physical space and is less likely to be physically damaged by movement. However, although prices are coming down, flash memory can be very expensive when large capacities are needed.
   • The device that the PC starts from can be altered by changing the setting in the BIOS so that the PC can start from devices such as an optical drive or another hard disk. This is useful for installing or updating operating systems.
   • Once the operating system has fully loaded and carried out its checks and made any necessary connections, it is ready for use. It is best to allow the OS to do all this before starting to use the PC as interrupting it can prevent it working properly or loading all its required software components.