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Computer Assignment 3

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Computer Assignment 3

Uploaded by

hudanasir183
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Huda Nasir

FA23-BSEN-0016

Assignment #1
Computer Concepts and Applications

Q1. Explain in detail about main(primary) memory and secondary memory with
examples along with the differences b/w these two.

Primary Memory:

Primary memory is also known as main memory or may also refer to “Internal memory”
and primary storage. All those types of computer memory that are directly accessed by
the processor using a data bus are called primary memory. The use of memories is
therefore mandatory in all systems using a microprocessor, including computers.

Examples: RAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM etc.

Secondary Memory:

Secondary memory is also known as secondary storage. The secondary memory is


accessed indirectly via input/output operations. This memory is also called permanent,
external, stable or persistent memory. Secondary memory devices are not only
convenient for storing backup files, but they also allow computer users to expand their
ability to transfer large amounts of data to other Secondary memory devices.

Examples: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Magnetic Tapes, DVDs, SSD etc.
Differences Between Primary and Secondary Storage

S.N Primary Memory Secondary Memory


1. It is a temporary memory. It is a permanent memory.
2. Data can be directly accessed Data cannot be directly accessed
by the CPU. by the CPU.
3. It is volatile in nature. It is non-volatile in nature.
4. It is expensive. It is inexpensive.
5. It has limited storage capacity. It has vast storage capacity.
6. It contains that data which is It contains that data which is not
currently used by the CPU. currently used by the CPU.
7. Data transfer between CPU and Data transfer between secondary
primary memory is managed by memory and primary memory is
the cache memory. managed by the 1/0 processor.
8. Primary memories are Secondary memories are
semiconductor memories. Magnetic memories.

Q2. What is RAM, ROM and Cache memory? on what conditions do we use these
memories in a Computer?

RAM (Random Access Memory):


 RAM is a type of volatile memory that provides temporary storage for data that
the CPU (Central Processing Unit) can quickly access.
 It is used for running programs and storing data that is actively being processed
by the computer.
 RAM is faster than storage devices like hard drives or SSDs, but it is volatile,
meaning that its contents are lost when the computer is powered off or restarted.
 The more RAM a computer has, the more programs and data it can work with
simultaneously, improving overall system performance.
ROM (Read-Only Memory):
 ROM is a type of non-volatile memory that stores data that cannot be easily
modified or overwritten.
 Common types of ROM include BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) in a computer
and firmware in devices like game consoles and mobile phones.
 Users typically cannot write to or modify the contents of ROM; it remains fixed
and read-only.

Cache Memory:
 Cache memory is a small, high-speed type of volatile memory that serves as a
buffer between the CPU and slower, larger memory such as RAM or storage
devices.
 Its primary purpose is to store frequently used data and instructions to accelerate
access to that data by the CPU, improving overall system performance.
 Cache memory is managed automatically by the CPU and is transparent to the
user.

Conditions for Using These Memories:


 RAM is used for actively running applications and storing data that the CPU is
currently working with. The amount of RAM required depends on the tasks being
performed, and more RAM is beneficial for multitasking and handling large
datasets or complex software.
 ROM is used to store firmware and software that is essential for booting and
initializing the hardware of a computer or electronic device. It is not typically
modified by the user.
 Cache memory is used automatically by the CPU to improve system
performance. It stores frequently accessed data to reduce the time it takes for the
CPU to retrieve information. The management of cache memory is handled by
the CPU and hardware, and users don't interact with it directly.
These memory types play crucial roles in a computer system, each serving a specific
purpose to ensure efficient data processing and system functionality.

Q2. What are SSD and HDD? Can we categorize them on the basis of devices?

SSD (Solid-State Drive) and HDD (Hard Disk Drive) are two common types of storage
devices used in computers and other electronic devices. They differ in how they store
and retrieve data. While SSDs and HDDs are most commonly found in laptops and
desktop computers, they can also be categorized based on the devices in which they
are used.

SSD Categorization based on devices::

a) Laptops and Desktop Computers: SSDs are commonly used to replace or


complement traditional HDDs in laptops and desktops to enhance system
performance.
b) Mobile Devices: SSDs are used in smartphones and tablets to provide fast and
reliable storage.
c) Servers and Data Centers: SSDs are used in servers and data centres to
improve data access speed and reduce latency.
d) Gaming Consoles: Some gaming consoles offer SSD options to reduce loading
times and enhance gaming experiences.
e) Embedded Systems: SSDs are used in various embedded systems, such as
medical devices, industrial automation, and automotive applications.

HDD Categorization based on devices:


a) Traditional Laptops and Desktop Computers: Many older laptops and
desktops come with HDDs as the primary storage device
b) External Hard Drives: Portable HDDs are popular for backup and additional
storage needs.
c) Network Attached Storage (NAS): HDDs are often used in NAS devices for
home or small office data storage.
d) Video Surveillance Systems: HDDs are used for storing video footage in
surveillance systems.
e) Some Gaming Consoles: Some gaming consoles use HDDs for storage.

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