OCU C)HT C Discussion Lesson 04
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Although read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM) have similar acronyms, they are separate components that store information. The main difference between read-only memory and random access memory is how the information is stored. Read-only memory is non-volatile, meaning that even if the computer’s power shuts down, the information will still be stored. Random access memory, on the other hand, will lose the information when the computer’s power shuts down, especially because it is a temporary storage space.
Another difference is the type of information RAM and ROM store. According to GeeksforGeeks, the information RAM stores is for the CPU to use right away, while the ROM contains information for storing code that operates the hardware on the device (2025, July 11). For example, ROM can include the instructions concerning the computer’s startup, motherboard, and loading of drivers for basic hardware. As a result, its tools are focused on different things. A computer’s RAM can be one of the many memory modules out there, while ROM can be BIOS (basic input/output system)/UEFI (unified extensible firmware interface).
References
GeeksforGeeks. (2025, July 11). Difference between RAM and ROM. https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/computer-science-fundamentals/difference-between-ram-and-rom/ -
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When it comes to RAM (Random Access Memory), think of it like your brains notepad. It temporary stores everything your computer is actively using right now at this second. When you turn off your computer, basically the RAM is erased. Primarily, RAM is used for running programs, opening files browsing the web and so forth. Ultimately, it can be fast, but temporary. An example for this can be as if you open up a game, it loads into RAM so it runs quickly. But when you shut it down the computer, its gone from RAM. Moving on to ROM (Read-Only-Memory), in which is like your brains basic instincts. It stores important instructions that your computer needs to start up, like the BIOS or firmware. You can’t easily change what’s in ROM (at least not without special tools), and it remains there even when you turn the power computer off.
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Hi Carlos~
Your analogy-driven explanation is refreshingly intuitive, especially for folks just diving into computer basics. Comparing RAM to a “brain’s notepad” and ROM to “basic instincts” gives a clear mental image of their roles, making complex concepts feel familiar. It balances clarity and accessibility without overwhelming.
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Read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM) are both essential types of memory in a computer, but they serve very different purposes. ROM is non-volatile, meaning that it retains its data even when the computer is turned off. It’s typically used to store firmware or the computer’s basic startup instructions (like the BIOS). Things in ROM rarely change and are usually written by the manufacturer. On the opposite end, RAM is volatile memory, which means all the data stored in it is lost when the computer shuts down. RAM temporarily holds data that the CPU needs to access quickly while running programs. It’s way faster than ROM and affects the speed and performance of your system. To summarize, ROM is permanent and read-only, as the name suggests, while RAM is temporary, fast, and constantly in use while your computer is on. Both are important, but they function in completely different ways.
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Hi, Caleb. Nice work on your discussion post. I agree that although RAM and ROM are related to the computer’s memory, they are quite different. This becomes especially evident after you analyze how each one works, but they are extremely important for the computer. Without them, the computer would not function properly.
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When reviewing the two crucial types of memory you’ll encounter are Read-Only Memory (ROM) and Random Access Memory (RAM). Although both play vital roles in a computer’s operation, they serve very different purposes and have distinct characteristics.
Read-Only Memory (ROM) is a type of non-volatile storage that retains essential data and instructions even when the computer is turned off. Its primary function is to store permanent information required for basic computer operations, such as firmware and system-level instructions that support the computer’s startup process. A common example of data stored in ROM is the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), which helps initialize hardware components during boot-up.
In contrast, Random Access Memory (RAM) serves as temporary storage for data and instructions actively used by the CPU while the computer is running. RAM is volatile, meaning its contents are lost when the system is powered down or restarted. It offers much faster data access than ROM, supporting efficient execution of active processes and applications. Data in RAM is constantly overwritten as new tasks are performed. Examples include open files, applications, and documents currently in use.
In essence, ROM is the quiet keeper of foundational instructions, while RAM is the dynamic workspace where the magic of computing happens in real-time. -
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Read only memory is what it says, it is a type of non-volatile memory on the motherboard of the computer that can only be read, as what is stored on the ROM is already written from the manufacturer. It houses essential instructions and data even when the PC is off and cannot be overwritten.
RAM, or random-access memory on the other hand is your temporary storage memory which is used by the operating system and various applications so information can be processed via the CPU. It can be written to and overwritten as this memory is not permanently fixed to the motherboard, and unlike ROM, RAM modules are interchangeable and upgradable on the motherboard. There are various RAM modules such as SIMM, DIMM, SODIMM, RIMM, and NIC.
ROM is non-volatile meaning the data is not affected by the removal of power. Although it is slower, it is permanent, providing long-term memory storage even without power. RAM is volatile memory; it is quick and fast but is also temporary and does not retain data storage once powered off.
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The two key types of memory used in your computer are Read-Only Memory (ROM) and Random Access Memory (RAM). You can get an idea of the function of each type of memory by its name. ROM, or Read-Only Memory, is just that, read-only. It is a non-volatile memory, which means that the data is kept even when the computer is powered down. ROM contains important instructions that help the computer start up, such as those found in the BIOS or firmware. ROM is not meant to be changed by the user. RAM, or Random Access Memory, as the name implies, is more like a temporary workspace. It will store the things your computer is using right now, but this memory is volatile, meaning it will be wiped clean when you shut down. In summary, ROM is a permanent memory and helps your computer boot up, whereas RAM is temporary and helps the computer run smoothly. Though they work in different ways, both are equally important.
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