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Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science

3.3Data storage

Data storage in Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science: what the syllabus expects you to know, the learning objectives and how to practise.
Subtopic50 practice questions3 lessons

Learning objectives

What the syllabus expects you to be able to do.

  1. 3.3.1Explain primary storage, including the roles of RAM and ROM.
  2. 3.3.2Explain secondary storage.
  3. 3.3.3Describe how magnetic, optical and solid-state storage work, with examples.
  4. 3.3.4Describe virtual memory: how it is created and used and why it is needed.
  5. 3.3.5Explain cloud storage.
  6. 3.3.6Compare storing data in the cloud with storing it locally.

Lessons

  • Cloud storage and cloud computing services

    30 min

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  • Primary storage: RAM, ROM and virtual memory

    30 min

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  • Secondary storage: magnetic, optical and solid-state

    35 min

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Sample question

A sample question on this topic. Answer it, check it, then read the worked answer.

Data storage: sample question

1 mark

Why are the start-up instructions (the bootstrap) stored in ROM rather than RAM?

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