STORAGE, MEMORY AND PROCESSING
Module 1.3
Memory and Storage
What is Memory and Storage?
Memory
Holds the data and instructions that the computer is using whilst it is on and working
Memory is electronic
Memory is fast to access
Needs power to keep its contents (volatile)
Storage
Holds programs and data far more permanently
Magnetic (hard drive), optical (CD, DVD) or electronic (flash drives and SSD)
Slow because its works mechanically
Keeps contents even when computer is switched off (non-volatile)
Advertisements
Where the advert refers to RAM it indicates memory
Terms such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive) and DVD writer refer to the
storage on the computer
Online Storage
Disk space that is allocated to you on a server on the internet
Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud etc
Advantages
Accessible from anywhere on any device with internet access.
Saves space on the user’s computer.
Changes all in one place – all devices always the latest version
Backup and security managed by storage provider
Easy to share files with other people
Data is still accessible even if your computer ‘crashes’ or is stolen
Module 1.3
Memory and Storage
What is Memory and Storage?
Memory
Holds the data and instructions that the computer is using whilst it is on and working
Memory is electronic
Memory is fast to access
Needs power to keep its contents (volatile)
Storage
Holds programs and data far more permanently
Magnetic (hard drive), optical (CD, DVD) or electronic (flash drives and SSD)
Slow because its works mechanically
Keeps contents even when computer is switched off (non-volatile)
Advertisements
Where the advert refers to RAM it indicates memory
Terms such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive) and DVD writer refer to the
storage on the computer
Online Storage
Disk space that is allocated to you on a server on the internet
Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud etc
Advantages
Accessible from anywhere on any device with internet access.
Saves space on the user’s computer.
Changes all in one place – all devices always the latest version
Backup and security managed by storage provider
Easy to share files with other people
Data is still accessible even if your computer ‘crashes’ or is stolen
