NoobToProLearner

CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTER SOFTWARE Computer software is written by programmers using a programming language. The programmer writes a set of instructions (program) using a specific programming language. Such programs are known as the source code. Another computer program called a compiler is then used on the source code, to transform the instructions into a language that the computer can understand. The result is an executable computer program, which is another name for software. Examples of computer software include the following: Driver software, which allows a computer to interact with hardware devices such as printers, scanners, and video cards. Educational software, which includes programs and games that help in teaching and providing drills to help memorize facts. Educational software can be used in diverse areas, from teaching computer-related activities like typing to subjects like chemistry. Media players and media development software, which are specifically designed to play ...

Secondary Storage Devices Secondary storage (also known as external memory or auxiliary storage) differs from main memory in that it is not directly accessible by the CPU. The secondary storage devices hold data even when the computer is switched off. An example of such a device is the hard disk. The computer usually uses its input/output channels to access data from the secondary storage devices to transfer the data to an intermediate area in the main memory. Secondary storage devices are non-volatile in nature, cheaper than the primary memory, and thus can be used to store huge amounts of data. While the CPU can read the data stored in the main memory in nanoseconds, the data from the secondary storage devices can be accessed in milliseconds. The secondary storage devices are basically formatted according to a file system that organizes the data into files and directories. The file system also provides additional information to describe the owner of a certain file, the access time, t...

Electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM )  Electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) allows its entire or selected contents to be electrically erased, then rewritten electrically. The process of writing an EEPROM is also known as flashing.

Erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM)  Erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) is a type of ROM that can be erased and re-programmed. The EPROM can be erased by exposing the chip to strong ultraviolet light typically for 10 minutes or longer and then rewritten with a process that again needs higher than usual voltage applied.

Programmable read-only memory (PROM) Programmable read-only memory (PROM) also called one-time programmable ROM can be written to or programmed using a special device called a PROM programmer. The working of a PROM is similar to that of a CD-ROM recorder which enables the users to write programs just once but the recorded data can be read multiple times. Programming a PROM is also called burning.

Read Only Memory (ROM) ROM refers to computer memory chips containing permanent data. Unlike RAM, ROM is non-volatile, that is, the data is retained in it even when the computer is turned Off. Refer Table 1.2 to understand the key differences between RAM and ROM. Differences between RAM and ROM RAM Data can be read as well as written. Data is stored temporarily. Data is stored while the computer is being used by users to hold their data. It is required while the computer is being used by users to run their applications. ROM Data can only be read. Data is stored permanently. Data is stored during the time of fabrication. It is required for starting the computer, and storing Most computers contain a small amount of ROM that stores critical programs which are used to start the computer when it is turned On. Originally, ROM was actually read only. So, in order to update the programs stored in ROM, the ROM chip had to be removed and physically replaced by the ROM chip that has a new version...

Differences between RAM and ROM RAM Data can be read as well as written. Data is stored temporarily. Data is stored while the computer is being used by users to hold their data. It is required while the computer is being used by users to run their applications. ROM Data can only be read. Data is stored permanently. Data is stored during the time of fabrication. It is required for starting the computer, and storing