Memory - Answers
Q1. RAM stands for Random Access Memory.
Q2. ROM stands for Read Only Memory.
Q3. Other names for RAM include the memory unit, memory, primary memory and Immediate Access Store.
Q4. The difference between a volatile and a non-volatile device is that volatile devices lose their contents on power-down whereas non-volatile devices don't.
Q5. Volatile = cache, RAM. Non-volatile = hard disk, ROM.
Q6. 'Rebooting' your computer means powering it down then switching it back on.
Q7. The three types of software or data you might find in RAM in a running computer = OS, the applications you are currently using and the files you are currently working on.
Q8. A POST checks for all of the necessary hardware that the computer needs e.g. RAM, keyboard.
Q9. You would expect to find the BIOS program in ROM.
Q10. Switching your computer off then on again usually clears a problem with your computer because sometimes, programs become disorganised and interfere with each other. Clearing out the RAM and then reloading programs again often reorganises the software to how they should be organised.
Q11. Cache is used for storing frequently needed instructions and data.
Q12. The unit of data storage is the byte.
Q13. Registers help the CPU carry out the FETCH - DECODE - EXECUTE cycle.
Q14. ROM is read only.
Q15. Increasing the amount of RAM or cache should improve performance. An advanced answer might include flashing the ROM to ensure you have the latest BIOS.
Extension task
Apart from increasing RAM and cache and flashing the ROM to the latest BIOS version, getting a hard disk that spins faster might help. Replacing the CPU to a faster, better one, perhaps with more cores. You have to check the motherboard to see what can be upgraded. Replacing e.g. the graphics card moves some processes which take a lot of the CPU's time over to the card, so the CPU can concentrate on other jobs.