RAM vs ROM RAM and ROM are both different types of memories used in any computer to make it fast

and to enable it to access information stored in the computer. Every computer comes with a certain amount of physical memory which is actually chips that hold data. This memory is referred to as Random Access Memory or RAM. RAM is a part of hardware that stores operating systems application programs and currently running processes that can be accessed randomly, i.e. in any order that the user desires. Data in RAM stays for only as long as the computer is running, and gets deleted as soon as computer is switched off. RAM usually comes in the form of microchips of different sizes such as 256MB, 512MB, 1GB, 2GB etc. Computers are so designed that this RAM can be increased up to a certain capacity. ROM, on the other hand refers to Read Only Memory. Every computer comes fitted with this memory that holds instructions for starting up the computer. This is a memory that has data written permanently on it and is not reusable. However, there are certain kinds of read only memory that can be rewritten but they are called Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory, or EPROM. These are generally in the form of CD-ROM or Floppy Disk that can load the OS to the RAM. Similarities between RAM and ROM end up with both being types of memories. There are glaring differences between the RAM and the ROM. Difference between RAM and ROM RAM is Random Access Memory, while ROM stands for Read Only Memory.

RAM is volatile and is erased when the computer is switched off. ROM is non-volatile and generally cannot be written to. RAM is used for both read and write while ROM is used only for reading. RAM needs electricity to flow to retain information while ROM is permanent.

RAM is analogous to a blackboard on which information can be written with a chalk and erased any number of times, while ROM is permanent and can only be read. One example is BIOS (basic input output system) that runs when computer is switched on and it prepares disk drives and processor to load OS from disk. Random Access Memory is a form of memory that can be read without having to begin at the first address, then the second address, then the third, and so on. This is a carryover from when most memory was Serial Access, such as magnetic tape, paper tape, or punched cards. The on-board memory computers use for temporary storage is Random Access Memory, but on chips, instead of a hard disc drive.

Read Only Memory is exactly what the name implies, it can only be read, not written to. A CD-ROM is a form of memory, as is a chip on the motherboard which is used to store instructions for the Central

Processor Unit. RAM is your computer's temporary storage space. RAM is really the computer's shortterm memory. As such, it remembers everything that the computer needs to process the data into information, such as data that has been entered and software instructions, but only when the computer is on. This means that RAM is an example of volatile storage. When the power is off, the data stored in RAM is cleared out. This is why, in addition to RAM, systems always include nonvolatile storage devices for permanent storage of instructions and data when the computer is powered off. Hard disks provide the greatest nonvolatile storage capacity in the computer system.

importance of operating system 1. It moderates the relationship between the computer and its peripherals 2. It helps in the management of files,- copying, deleting, moving of files from one storage location to the other. 3. It encourages the memory for its efficient usage and thus adding the speed of the computer. 4. It manages the activities of the processor in terms of job execution according to the priority of arrival ,of jobs 5. It informs the user of nay hardware or software error 6. It makes communication between the computer and the user or the operator possible.