Memory and Storage Devices

With computer use, it requires a storage place. This data can be in the form of numbers, text, videos or pictures. The computer then stores data in two major forms, which include memory and storage devices.

We should know them clearly.

What is memory?

Memory is the area within the computer which stores information as the computer operates.

It helps the computer:

  • Run programs smoothly
  • Quick processing of information.
  • Handle tasks without delay

Memory is at a high speed, but it retains information over a short period of time. The data in memory is cleared when the computer is switched off.

Types of Memory

RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM is the memory that holds the information which the computer is currently using.

Whenever you start a game or write something in a document or another application, the computer stores that data in RAM to be used fast.

Features:

  • Stores data as long as the computer is operational.
  • Helps programmes open and operate quicker.
  • Negative point - There is loss of all information when the computer is switched off.

ROM (Read Only Memory)

  • ROM contains valuable instructions which assist the computer in booting.
  • ROM informs the computer of how to start when you switch on the computer.

Features:

  • Has set guidelines.
  • Assists the computer to boot (start).
  • Does not lose data when it is switched off.

RAM/ROM

What are storage devices?

  • Data are stored in the form of storage devices over a long period.
  • The data is also safe even when the computer is switched off.

Storage devices come in handy in:

  • Saving documents
  • Storing pictures and videos
  • Keeping software and games

Common Storage Devices

Hard Disk

It is the primary storage in a computer.
It has a high storage capacity of data.

Pen Drive

A portable little device that is used to move files between two computers.

External Hard Drive

Storage of additional data not within the computer.

Memory Card

A mini disc that is saved in cell phones and cameras to save photos and videos.

Storage Devices

QUIZ FOR INTRO TO MEMORY AND STORAGE

1. You have a project, and the information is being lost anytime you switch off the computer. What section of your computer does that temporary storage of information belong to as you work?

A) RAM
B) ROM
C) Hard Disk
D) Pen Drive

Answer: A) RAM

2. Once you are done with work on a computer, you switch it off, and information remains secure. What storage device makes sure that your information is still stored even when the computer is switched off?

A) Hard Disk
B) RAM
C) External Hard Drive
D) ROM

Answer: A) Hard Disk

3. You are playing a game on your computer. When you switch off the computer, you have lost your progress. What temporarily stores your progress in your game?

A) Hard Disk
B) ROM
C) RAM
D) Memory Card

Answer: C) RAM

4. What is a portable mini hard disk like device that can be inserted into various computers to transfer any files or store any data?

A) Pen Drive
B) Memory Card
C) External Hard Drive
D) ROM

Answer: A) Pen Drive

5. There are hundreds of photos and videos that you have to save on your phone. What would be your choice of devices that will be used to store this data over a long period of time?

A) RAM
B) External Hard Drive
C) Pen Drive
D) Memory Card

Answer: D) Memory Card

6. Your computer has just booted on, and the first thing it does when booting up is to look into the instructions stored in a special memory. What is the name of this form of memory that enables your computer to start?

A) RAM
B) ROM
C) Hard Disk
D) Pen Drive

Answer: B) ROM

7. You have just transferred all your files to bigger storage, but you have not transferred them directly to the interior of your computer. What is the name of this device?

A) Pen Drive
B) Memory Card
C) External Hard Drive
D) RAM

Answer: C) External Hard Drive

8. You have opened a document on your computer and now you can edit it. On what is this paper being stored while you are working on it?

A) Hard Disk
B) ROM
C) RAM
D) External Hard Drive

Answer: C) RAM

9. Which storage device would you consider to be reliable in storing large volumes of data to be accessed later on should you wish to store your valuable files?

A) Pen Drive
B) Memory Card
C) External Hard Drive
D) RAM

Answer: C) External Hard Drive

10. When you have spent several hours with the computer, you choose to turn it off. What does the information in RAM do?

1) It is stored in the computer.
B) It is saved on the external hard disc.
C) It disappears
D) It is buried in the hard disc.

Answer: C) It disappears