Page 45 - Computer_Science_F5

Computer Science Questions:

1. Based on the scenario you have read, what is the importance of signs and
labels in the library? Explain by relating this to how memory is organised
FOR ONLINE READING ONLY
and accessed in a computer.
2. Explain how useful is the idea of using shelves in the library. Analyse
how this idea relates to the organisation and management of computer
memory.

The Meaning of Computer Memory You return to the shelves, find a suitable

Computer memory is the internal storage book, and arrange them on the desk.
of a computer system that holds data, With this selection, you are likely to find
instructions, and processed results during what you need without constant trips to
data processing. It is crucial for the proper the shelves. This mirrors the principle of
functioning of a computer, enabling the locality, where frequently accessed data
system to temporarily store and process is stored closer for quicker retrieval.
data as needed. The memory hierarchy Computer programs do not access all
includes fast memories like cache, registers, data at once, which helps them run faster
and RAM for temporary data storage, and and use resources better. The principle
slower secondary memory devices like of locality states that programs access a
relatively small portion of their data and
magnetic disks for permanent data storage. instructions at any instant of time, just
This organisation aims to balance high as you access a very small portion of the
performance with minimal cost. library’s collection. There are two main
types of locality:
Computer Memory Design

Principles (a) The principle of temporal locality
The design of a computer memory is which states that a program is likely
based on two main principles: locality to reuse recently accessed data or
and cost-performance ratio. instructions soon again.
This principle is like highlighting
Principle of locality key points in your textbook and then
referring back to them a couple of times
As you sit at the library desk, gathering to understand a concept. Similarly, a
books for your assignment on computer computer program might use a piece of
architecture classification, you realise data once for a calculation, then need
that while most topics are covered, it again right away for another step.
there is nothing on Flynn’s taxonomy. So, the program keeps that data easily

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for Advanced Secondary Schools

Computer Science Form 5.indd 36 23/07/2024 12:32