| A | B |
|---|
| Memory | temporary storage for instructions and data |
| RAM | random access memory |
| Random access memory | temporary storage for data and instructions which can be accessed in random order |
| SDRAM | ram that is synchronized the the processor to allow faster access |
| Volatile memory | memory that is constantly changing while the computer is on and is cleared when the computer is turned off or the electricity goes off |
| Memory capacity | the amount of data that the computer can handle at any one time |
| Cache memory | a special, high-speed memory chip on the motherboard what stores frequently or recently accessed data |
| Virtual memory | space on the computer's hard drive that simulates additional RAM |
| ROM | read-only memory |
| Read-only memory | a chip on the motherboard that has been prerecorded with data to check the system components and activate essential software |
| BIOS | basic input/output system which tells the computer to initialize the motherboard and how to recognize the devices connected to the computer and to start the boot process |
| Boot process | the events that take place between the moment the computer is turned on until the computer is ready to use |
| Nonvolatile memory | memory that remains even when the computer is turned off |
| CMOS memory | a chip on the motherboard which tells the processor where essential software is stored |
