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Computer Memory Worksheet

The document is a student workbook focused on computer memory, including definitions of key terms such as RAM, ROM, volatile and non-volatile memory, and virtual memory. It explains the functions of these memory types, their characteristics, and their impact on computer performance. Additionally, it includes exercises and questions to reinforce understanding of the material.

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18 views

Computer Memory Worksheet

The document is a student workbook focused on computer memory, including definitions of key terms such as RAM, ROM, volatile and non-volatile memory, and virtual memory. It explains the functions of these memory types, their characteristics, and their impact on computer performance. Additionally, it includes exercises and questions to reinforce understanding of the material.

Uploaded by

williamraghunanan
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Student Workbook: Memory

Glossary
Main memory The part of a computer that stores data.

Gigabyte Gigabyte (GB) - a measurement of file size or storage


capacity, 1,024 megabytes, or 1 billion bytes.

Volatile memory The memory used to store computer program data


while it is being executed. RAM is the main type of
volatile memory. It is volatile because when power is
switched off it no longer retains any data.

Non volatile
A form of computer memory that stores data even when
not powered.
Virtual memory
A section of a computer storage drive which is
temporarily used as RAM.
Disk thrashing Disk Thrashing is a problem that may occur when
virtual memory is being used.
Read-write The content containing can be read and written on.

Read only The content containing the data can be read only.

BIOS Basic input output system - the basic firmware that is


embedded in the computer ROM chip used to start a
computer.

1. For programs to be accessed by the CPU the operating system loads them into
ram

2a. A typical personal computer might have around 4 GB of RAM installed

2b. A computer where processing heavy applications are run may have up to 64 GB of RAM
installed

3. RAM is: VOLATILE NON VOLATILE

4. James is writing an essay. He has it on his screen but hasn’t saved it to the hard disk. The
electricity goes off for a few seconds. When the computer reboots, there is no sign of James’
essay. Explain why.

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James’ essay was being used by the ram, ram is volatile so when the power cut the data was
erased.

5a. Virtual memory is found on the hard disk

5b. Virtual memory is VOLATILE NON VOLATILE

6. Briefly explain how virtual memory works

Virtual memory works by using secondary storage from the hard disk as temporary memory
when the computer is in need of extra memory.

7. Explain why adding additional RAM might help improve the computer’s performance

Ram stores what is currently happening on a computer. If there is more ram then more
processes can be done simultaneously on the computer, this helps for programs that require
heavy memory usage (increasing its performance).

8. ROM is READ ONLY READ / WRITE

9. What was traditionally stored in ROM?

BIOS (basic input/output systems)

10. Name one other thing that ROM can be used to store

The MAC address on a network card

11. In the table below, compare RAM and ROM

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RAM ROM
Volatile Non-volatile

Read/write
Read only
Holds data and instructions currently in use Holds basic computer settings

12. Flash memory is READ ONLY READ / WRITE

13. Flash memory is often used to store the BIOS instructions TRUE FALSE

14. A disadvantage of flash memory is that

It is susceptible to data corruption.

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Tick if you understand the following:

The term ‘memory’

The purpose of RAM

The terms ‘volatile’ and ‘non volatile’

Why virtual memory is used

The purpose of ROM

Why flash memory is used rather than ROM

If there is anything in this list that you have not ticked, go back and re-read that section

The score I got in my quiz was ………………….

Write down one question that you still have about this topic.

Look up the answer and write it down here

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