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These resources have been reviewed and selected by STEM Learning’s team of education specialists for factual accuracy and relevance to teaching STEM subjects in UK schools.

Memory

The first video explores the purpose of both RAM and ROM in a typical computer system.  The differences between the two memory types are outlined.

The second video considers what happens when a modern multi-tasking operating system runs out of physical RAM.  Does it output a “memory full” message and refuse to open a program or data, or is there another way of handling this situation?  This video explores the concept of virtual memory as a solution at a depth required for GCSE.

Flash memory or “solid state” (which means no moving parts) is quickly replacing traditional hard disk drives.  It is also the storage medium of choice in portable devices.  The third video explores some typical uses of flash memory, the reasons for it and some of the disadvantages at a level suitable for GCSE.

Resources:

https://student.craigndave.org/videos/ocr-gcse-slr1-2-ram-and-rom

https://student.craigndave.org/videos/ocr-gcse-slr1-2-the-need-for-virtual-memory

https://student.craigndave.org/videos/ocr-gcse-slr1-2-flash-memory

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