What is used to store the essential parts of the operating system while the computer is running?

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GCSE

Eduqas

Memory

Primary storage is a key component of a computer system that enables it to function. Primary storage includes random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), cache and flash memory. Each of these have different uses within the computer.

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Computer Science

Understanding Computer Science

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ROM and RAM

An explanation of RAM, ROM and virtual memory

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Read only memory

Read only memory (ROM) is non-volatile primary storage. It keeps its contents when the computer is turned off.

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ROM can be read from but not written to.

ROM can be read from but not written to, hence the term read only. This makes ROM ideal for storing instructions and data that are needed for the computer to run. These instructions and data are usually programmed by the computer's manufacturer and cannot be overwritten.

The BIOS (Basic Input Output System) is an example of a program that is stored in ROM. The BIOS runs as soon as the computer is switched on. It checks that the hardware is functioning correctly then loads the computer's operating system. Because the BIOS is always needed it is stored in ROM.

Random access memory

Random access memory (RAM) is volatile primary storage. Once the computer is switched off the data and instructions held in RAM are lost. RAM is given the term ‘random access’ because data and instructions can be stored and accessed from any location within the memory).

RAM is used to hold data and instructions that are currently in use. In a modern PC, RAM is used to hold the operating system and any open documents and programs that are running.

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RAM can be read from and written to.

The contents of RAM can be changed at any time by overwriting it with other data and instructions. For example, a user might close one document and open another or run a different program.

The more RAM a computer has, the more data and program instructions it can hold simultaneously. RAM can also be upgraded easily, unlike other types of primary storage.

Question

How does ROM differ from RAM?

ROM is read only and non-volatile. RAM can be read from and written to, and is volatile.

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What does the ROM store?

Read-only memory, or ROM, is a type of computer storage containing non-volatile, permanent data that, normally, can only be read, not written to. ROM contains the programming that allows a computer to start up or regenerate each time it is turned on.

Where on a computer is the operating system generally stored?

The operating system is stored on the hard disk, but to speed up the whole process, the OS is copied into RAM on start-up. This is completed by BIOS (Basic Input Output System).

What is the use of ROM in computer?

In modern PCs, "ROM" is used to store the basic bootstrapping firmware for the processor, as well as the various firmware needed to internally control self-contained devices such as graphic cards, hard disk drives, solid state drives, optical disc drives, TFT screens, etc., in the system.

Where is ROM located in a computer?

Read Only Memory (ROM) is found in a microchip within the motherboard, and it cannot be easily altered. This is a type of non-volatile memory that is used to run firmware, or the BIOS, on a personal computer.