CBSE Class 9 Computer Applications
Question 3 of 37
Types of Hardware — Question 5
Back to all questions 5
Question Question 5
There are two types of memory, random access memory (RAM) and read only memory (ROM).
(i) Give one use for RAM
(ii) Give one use for ROM
(iii) Describe the differences between RAM and ROM.
(i) RAM stores the required data and information during the processing phase.
(ii) ROM stores a set of start-up instructions that tell the computer what to do when it is powered on.
(iii) The differences between RAM and ROM are as follows:
| Category | RAM | ROM |
|---|---|---|
| Full form | Random Access Memory | Read-only memory |
| Definition | RAM is a form of data storage that can be accessed randomly at any time, in any order by CPU. | ROM is also a form of data storage that generally stores hardwired instructions (instructions stored as form of circuit) for the computer to start initially. |
| Alterations | RAM contents can be changed or altered as and when required. | ROM cannot be easily altered or reprogrammed. |
| Use | RAM allows the computer to read data quickly to run applications. | ROM stores the program required to initially boot the computer or reboot the computer. |
| Operations supported | It allows reading and writing. | It only allows reading. |
| Volatility | RAM is volatile i.e., its contents are lost when the device is powered off. | It is non-volatile i.e., its contents are retained even when the device is powered off. |
| Size | Larger than ROM; can be up to some Giga Bytes (GBs) | Smaller but large enough to hold basic instructions ; is up to some Mega Bytes (MBs) |
| Speed | RAM chips can read data faster than ROM. | ROM is slower as compared to RAM. |