RAM & ROM

• What does the central processing unit (CPU) do in a computer system?

  It fetches instructions from memory.
• What are the two main types of memory in a computer system?

  RAM and ROM.
• What is the role of ROM in a computer system?

  • Contains the first instructions for hardware checks
  • Loads the basic input/output system (BIOS)
  • Known as firmware
  • Can sometimes be changed in certain systems
• What is the function of RAM in a computer?

  RAM temporarily stores instructions and data for programs being executed by the processor.
• Why is it necessary to transfer instructions from the hard disk to RAM?

  Because executing instructions directly from the hard disk would be too slow.
• What happens when a computer first turns on?

  • CPU has no instructions initially
  • ROM loads the operating system
  • ROM contains the bootstrap instructions
  • The system performs a Power-On Self-Test (POST)
• What is the Power-On Self-Test (POST)?

  POST is a program that checks the working of connected components and signals the CPU about their existence.
• What does ROM contain that is crucial for booting up a computer?

  ROM contains the bootstrap, a set of initial startup instructions.
• How does ROM differ from RAM in terms of volatility?

  ROM is non-volatile, meaning its instructions remain when power is off, while RAM is volatile and loses its data when power is off.
• What is the role of the bootloader program?

  The bootloader program carries out hardware checks and prepares the system to load the operating system.
• What is the significance of the boot file?

  The boot file contains information necessary for the computer to load the operating system into RAM.
• What are the steps involved in the booting process of a computer?

  1. ROM fetches initial instructions.

  2. POST checks connected components.

  3. Bootloader runs hardware checks.

  4. Boot file is loaded into RAM.

  5. Operating system is loaded and takes control.
• What types of drives can a computer's BIOS be configured to check for the operating system?

  The BIOS can be configured to check USB drives or optical drives in addition to the hard disk.
• What are the different types of ROM and their characteristics?

  • ROM: Read-only, unchangeable after manufacturing.
  • PROM: Programmable, can be coded once.
  • EPROM: Erasable, requires UV light to erase.
  • EEPROM: Electrically erasable, can be rewritten without removal.
• What is the earliest version of ROM called?

  Read-Only Memory (ROM).
• What is the main difference between EEPROM and earlier types of ROM?

  EEPROM can be rewritten without removing it from the device and does not require special equipment for changes.