What is RAM?
Random Access Memory (RAM)
- Used for the operating system, applications, that are being run on the computer and any data in use.
- It holds data that we are currently working on
Advantages and Disadvantages of RAM?
Adv:
- Data loaded onto RAM makes quicker for CPU to access it. Means computer will run quicker
- More RAM, More Data it can hold, So CPU can access data quicker, faster computer will run.
Disadv:
- Files you are working on saved on RAM, until save button clicked. Means you could lose the data, as they are in volatile storage. Once save button is clicked data is stored on HDD, then the data will not be lost when power off.
What is ROM?
Read only memory (ROM)
- Computers will have ROM chip, it stores data the manufacturer has put on there.
- Data tells computer how to boot up when it is off
- ROM is read only so it cannot be changed. Also it is non volatile memory.
What is Cache?
- Often built into the CPU
- Data stored on the cache is very quick for the CPU to access.
How does Cache work?
- The data the CPU processes is taken from the RAM and put onto the cache.
- A computer will only have a small amount of cache but the more it has, quicker the CPU can process data. Also, quicker your computer is.
What is power supplies?
Computers have the large volt supply that comes with the connector cables for the majority of computer components. It has a fan because of the heat generated and a plug socket.
