3.3

Memory and storage

9 flashcards to master Memory and storage

Smart Spaced Repetition

Rate each card Hard, Okay, or Easy after flipping. Your progress is saved and cards are scheduled for optimal review intervals.

Definition Flip

Define RAM and explain its role in a computer system.

Answer Flip

RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile primary storage used to hold data and instructions that the CPU is currently using. It allows for fast access and modification of data, unlike ROM which is read-only.

Example: storing the program and data when a game is running.
Key Concept Flip

Explain the difference between volatile and non-volatile memory, providing an example of each.

Answer Flip

Volatile memory requires power to maintain stored information, like RAM (data lost when power is off). Non-volatile memory retains information even when power is off, like a hard disk drive (HDD) or solid state drive (SSD).

Key Concept Flip

Describe the key differences between primary and secondary storage.

Answer Flip

Primary storage (RAM, ROM) is directly accessible by the CPU and is faster but more expensive and has lower capacity. Secondary storage (HDD, SSD) is used for long-term storage, is slower and less expensive, but offers higher capacity.

Key Concept Flip

State two advantages and two disadvantages of using a Solid State Drive (SSD) compared to a Hard Disk Drive (HDD).

Answer Flip

Advantages of SSD: faster access times, more durable. Disadvantages of SSD: generally more expensive per GB, potentially limited write cycles. HDD's are cheaper and have high capacity.

Definition Flip

Explain the purpose of ROM (Read-Only Memory) in a computer system.

Answer Flip

ROM stores essential boot-up instructions (BIOS) that the computer needs to start. The data in ROM cannot be easily modified or erased, ensuring the computer can reliably initialize its hardware components.

Key Concept Flip

Describe how magnetic storage devices, such as Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), store data.

Answer Flip

HDDs store data by magnetizing areas on a spinning disk. A read/write head moves across the disk to access and modify the magnetic orientation of these areas, representing bits of data.

Definition Flip

What are optical storage devices? Give two examples

Answer Flip

Optical storage devices use lasers to read and write data to a reflective surface. Examples include CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.

Definition Flip

Explain how flash memory is used in storage devices and give two examples of where it is used.

Answer Flip

Flash memory is a type of non-volatile memory that can be electrically erased and reprogrammed. Examples include USB drives, SSDs, and memory cards used in digital cameras and smartphones.

Key Concept Flip

Describe the advantages and disadvantages of using cloud storage compared to local storage.

Answer Flip

Advantages of Cloud Storage: Accessibility from anywhere, data backup and recovery. Disadvantages: Requires internet connection, security and privacy concerns, potential cost over time.

Review the material

Read revision notes with definitions, equations, and exam tips.

Read Notes

Test yourself

Practice with MCQ questions to check your understanding.

Take Quiz
3.2 Input and output devices 3.4 Logic gates

Key Questions: Memory and storage

Define RAM and explain its role in a computer system.

RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile primary storage used to hold data and instructions that the CPU is currently using. It allows for fast access and modification of data, unlike ROM which is read-only.

Example: storing the program and data when a game is running.
Explain the purpose of ROM (Read-Only Memory) in a computer system.

ROM stores essential boot-up instructions (BIOS) that the computer needs to start. The data in ROM cannot be easily modified or erased, ensuring the computer can reliably initialize its hardware components.

What are optical storage devices? Give two examples

Optical storage devices use lasers to read and write data to a reflective surface. Examples include CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.

Explain how flash memory is used in storage devices and give two examples of where it is used.

Flash memory is a type of non-volatile memory that can be electrically erased and reprogrammed. Examples include USB drives, SSDs, and memory cards used in digital cameras and smartphones.

About Memory and storage (3.3)

These 9 flashcards cover everything you need to know about Memory and storage for your Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478) exam. Each card is designed based on the official syllabus requirements.

What You'll Learn

How to Study Effectively

Use the Study Mode button above to test yourself one card at a time. Try to answer each question before flipping the card. Review cards you find difficult more frequently.

Continue Learning

After mastering Memory and storage, explore these related topics: