Chapter 5

Storage Devices

Storage Media & Devices

The device that actually holds the data is known as the
storage medium (‘media’ is the plural).
The device that saves data onto the storage medium,
or reads data from it, is known as the storage device.
Storage Device: The machine which stores data on
storage medium.

Storage Media: The physical material in which a devices stores data.

A computer holds programs and data in three sorts of device:
1. Primary — main memory, stores data and instructions to be directly
accessed by processor. It has a limited-capacity but rapid-access
during processing
2. Secondary — main storage, stores all data and programs. It has
larger-capacity but slower-access. They remain inside computer.
3. Off-line — back-up storage, portable, they are removed after
read/write data. stores data/programs for future use.
All data and programs are stored in secondary storage. They are loaded n primary storage so as
processor can read it. The results of processing is firstly stored by processor in memory and then
saved in secondary storage.

Primary memory
Primary memory is also known as ‘primary storage’ or ‘memory’.
Data stored in primary memory can be accessed quickly and directly by the computer’s processor.
Primary storage is a computer’s internal storage. It is in this storage where data is held ready for
processing.
Its capacity of primary memory is quite small.
Primary storage is separated into Random Access Memory (RAM) and Read Only Memory (ROM).
Primary memory consists of:
• Non-volatile, read-only memory (ROM) to hold a small program to start up computer, BIOS,
firmware, permanent
• volatile, read-write, random access memory (RAM) to hold the programs and data currently
being processed, user memory, temporary
Differences between RAM and ROM
RAM ROM
Applications  Part of Operating system  A program used to start the
What they contain?  Currently in use data computer called the ‘Start-up
programs. routine’ or BIOS.
 Factory setting such as remote
control frequencies
 stores the set of routines; for
example, how the buttons
embedded system work
Can the contents be Yes. No.
changed? (Is it The contents of the RAM are The contents of ROM cannot normally
volatile?) changed all the time while the be changed.
computer is running.
It is temporary. It is permanent.
Who can store data User Manufacturer
Volatile or Non- It is volatile, i.e. it needs It is non-volatile i.e. it can retain data
volatile continuous power supply to even when there is no power supply.
retain data.
ROM
ROM stands for Read Only Memory. The memory from which we can only read but cannot write
on it. This type of memory is non-volatile. The information is stored permanently in such
memories during manufacture. A ROM stores such instructions that are required to start a
computer. This operation is referred to as bootstrap. ROM chips are not only used in the
computer but also in embedded systems like washing machine and microwave oven.
Types of ROM
Here are the various types of ROMs and their characteristics.
ROM: Read Only Memory
PROM: Programmable ROM
EPROM: Erasable Programmable ROM
EEPROM: Electrically Erasable PROM
ROM (or Masked ROM)
The very first ROMs were hard-wired devices that contained a pre-programmed set of data or
instructions.
PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory)
PROM is read-only memory that can be modified only once by a user. The user buys a blank
PROM. It can be programmed only once and is not erasable.
EPROM (Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory)
EPROM is a Programmable Read Only Memory. It can be programmed and erased several times
by exposing it to ultra-violet light.
EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory)
EEPROM is programmed and erased electrically. It can be erased and reprogrammed a
numerous times.
Advantages of ROM
The advantages of ROM are as follows −
 Non-volatile in nature
 Cannot be accidentally changed
 Cheaper than RAMs
 Easy to test
 More reliable than RAMs
 Static and do not require refreshing
RAM
RAM Stands for Random Access Memory. It is the essential part of every computer.
It is Random because its contents can be accessed randomly.
It is Access memory because user can load contents in it, can modify its contents and can erase.
It is volatile, it loses all its contents when computer is switched off.
RAM is the only volatile memory in a computer system. It is directly accessible by processor. It is
user’s memory as user can store data and instructions in it, can modify its contents and can also
erase contents of RAM.
RAM stores part of Operating System and currently in use data and programs. In an embedded
system, user’s settings are also stored in RAM.
All data and programs are saved in secondary storage. On executing the program is loaded in RAM,
where it is accessible for processor. It is contents are then fetched in CPU’s registers and decoded
and executed by CU and ALU.
RAM plays an important role in the efficiency of computer system. Access speed of RAM is faster
than secondary storage and slower than registers. Larger the computer memory, faster the
execution.
But if too many programs are loaded in RAM, the contents of RAM are increased, it becomes slower,
and sometime it shows an out of memory alert message. In this situation virtual memory is used to
compensate this shortage of memory.
There are two different types of RAM, Static & Dynamic
SRAM DRAM
SRAM consists of a number of complex DRAM consists of
circuits (NAND or NOR). Each circuit stores  capacitors to hold bit of data (0 or 1)
one bit of data (0 or 1).  and transistors to change capacitors’
value like a switch.
NAND and NOR gates never leaks charge Capacitors leaks charge with passage of
so SRAM does not need to be refreshed time so DRAM requires data to be refreshed
again and again. periodically in order to retain the data.
requires less power consumption requires higher power consumption which is
significant when used in battery-powered
devices
used predominantly in cache memory of Commonly used in RAM
processors where speed is important
Has lesser storage capacity has higher storage capacity
More expensive less expensive
Contents of RAM

Virtual Memory
Virtual memory is a feature of an operating system that enables a computer to be able to
compensate shortages of physical memory by transferring pages of data from random access
memory to disk storage. This process is done temporarily and is
designed to work as a combination of RAM and space on the hard disk.
This means that when RAM runs low, virtual memory can move data from
it to a space called a paging file. This process allows for RAM to be freed
up so that a computer can complete the task.
Occasionally a user might be shown a message that says the virtual
memory is running low, this means that either more RAM needs to be
added, or the size of the paging file needs to be increased.
Secondary Storage
The main storage of computer where all data and programs are saved in the secondary storage.
Secondary storage devices are non-volatile. They can retain data even when computer is switched
off.
Their storage capacity is much larger than primary memory RAM while access speed is slower.
Secondary storage includes:
• Hard disks drive (HDD)
• Solid-state drive (SSD)
Hard Drives
HARD DISK DRIVES (HDD) are probably still the most
common method used to store data on a computer.
Data is stored in a digital format on the magnetic surfaces of
the disks (or platters, as they are frequently called).
 The hard disk drive has a number of platters which can spin at about 7000 times a second. A
number of read–write heads can access all of the surfaces in the disk drive.
 Each platter has two surfaces which can be used to store the data.
 These read–write heads can move very quickly –
typically they can move from the centre of the disk
to the edge of the disk (and back again) 50 times a
second.
 Data is stored on the surface in sectors and tracks.
 A sector on a given track will contain a fixed number
of bytes.
 Each byte consists of 8 tiny magnetic fields i.e. 1
magnetic field for 1 bit.
 ‘O’ bit is represented by ‘SN’ Magnetic field, while ‘1’ is represented by ‘NS’.
Unfortunately, hard disk drives have very slow data access when compared to, for example, RAM.
Many applications require the read–write heads to constantly seek for the correct blocks of data;
this means a large number of head movements.
LATENCY
Latency is defined as the time it takes for a specific block of data on a data track to rotate
around to the read–write head.
Users will sometimes notice the effect of latency when they see messages such as ‘please wait’ or,
at its worst, ‘not responding’. Fixed hard disk drives are available on all computers and are the
main method used for data storage.

Internal Operation of Hard Disk Drive

S No Step
1. The hard disk has one or more platters made of aluminium or glass
Each surface of the platter/disk is ferrous-oxide which is capable of being magnetise
2.
d
3. The disks are rotated at high-speed
Each surface of the disk has a read/write head mounted on an arm positioned just ab
4.
ove the surface
5. Electronic circuits control the movement of the arm and hence the heads
6. The surface of the platter/disk is divided into concentric tracks and sectors
7. One track in one sector is the basic unit of storage called a block
8. The data is encoded as a magnetic pattern for each block
When writing to disk, a variation in the current in the head produces a variation in ma
9.
gnetic field on the disk
When reading from disk, a variation in magnetic field produces a variation in current t
10.
hrough the head
Uses
 Fixed hard drives are used to store the operating system and working data.
 They are used for storing applications software that needs fast retrieval and storage of data.
 Real-time systems (e.g. robots, control of a chemical plant) and online systems (e.g. booking
airline tickets, automatic stock control (using EPOS)) used fixed hard drives.
 They are used in file servers for computer networks.
Advantages
 They have a very fast data transfer rate
and fast access times to data.
 They have very large memory capacities.
Disadvantages
 They can be fairly easily damaged (e.g. if
the correct shut-down procedure on a
laptop computer has not been correctly
carried out and the computer is then moved).
 They lack portability unless a portable hard disk drive is used.
Solid State Drive (SSD)
Solid State Devices uses NAND or NOR chips, by movements of electrons.
These are non-volatile memory.
The term ‘solid-state’ essentially means ‘no moving parts’.
Solid-state storage devices are based on electronic circuits with no moving parts (no reels of
tape, no spinning discs, no laser beams, etc.), so the issue of LATENCY is removed. All data is
retrieved at the same rate.
Many of our digital devices (cameras, mobile phones, MP3 players, etc.) require compact, non-
volatile data storage. Flash memory cards provide this and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

How SSD works

SSD uses NAND or NOR flash memory. It stores data in individual memory cells, using memory
transistor. Each transistor composed of:
 a Control Gate, the top layer of transistor.
 A floating gate, the lower segment
The control gate attracts electrons and trapped some of them within floating gate, if electrons are
trapped in floating gate, this state is known as bit value 1, and it remain same even there is no power
supply. To reset a high voltage is applied which removes the electrons from floating gate.
 Attribute NAND Slid state NOR Solid State
Storage capacity High Low
Cost per bit Less expensive More expensive
Allows blocks of data (512 bytes Allows data to be read or erased in single
Access
or more) to be read or erased. bytes at a time.
Write speed Good
Read speed Good
Code execution e.g. EEPROM
File storage e.g. SSD & Flash m
technology.
emory
EEPROM technology is used for some
security gadgets, such as credit card, SIM
card, key-less entry, etc.
Main application

Advantages of SSD over HDD

 they are more reliable (no moving parts to go wrong)
 they are considerably lighter (which makes them suitable for laptops)
 they don’t have to ‘get up to speed’ before they work properly
 they have a lower power consumption
 they run much cooler than HDDs (these last two points again make them very suitable for
laptop computers)
 because they have no moving parts, they are very thin
 data access is considerably faster than HDD.

SSD Endurance
Most solid state storage devices are conservatively rated at only 20 GB write operations per day
over a three-year period – this is known as SSD endurance. For this reason,
SSD technology is not used in servers, for example, where a huge number of write operations take
place every day. However, this issue is being addressed by a number of manufacturers to improve
the durability of these solid-state systems.
Flash Memory
Fujio Masuoka, while working for Toshiba, proposed a new type of floating-gate memory that allowed
entire sections of memory to be erased quickly and easily, by applying a voltage to a single wire
connected to a group of cells. The name "flash" was suggested by Masuoka's colleague, Shōji
Ariizumi, because the erasure process of the memory contents reminded him of the flash of a
camera.

Flash memory is a non-volatile memory chip used for storage and for transferring data between a
personal computer (PC) and digital devices. It has the ability to be electronically reprogrammed and
erased. It is often found in USB flash drives, MP3 players, digital cameras and solid-state drives.

Flash memory is a type of electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), but
may also be a standalone memory storage device such as a USB drive. EEPROM is a type of data
memory device using an electronic device to erase or write digital data. Flash memory is a distinct
type of EEPROM, which is programmed and erased in large blocks.

Flash memory incorporates the use of floating-gate transistors to store data. Floating-gate
transistors, which is a transistor used for amplifying or switching electronic signals. Floating-gate
transistors are electrically isolated and use a floating node in direct current (DC). Flash memory is
similar to the standard MOFSET, except the transistor has two gates instead of one.
Off-line Storage
Offline storage refers to any storage medium that must be physically inserted into a system every
time a user wants to access or edit data. Offline storage can be any type of internal or external
storage that can easily be removed from the computer.
Offline storage is also known as removable storage and includes:
• Optical devices like CDs, DVDs
• Solid state USB memory sticks
• External Hard disk
Optical Storage Devices / Media
Optical storage devices save data as patterns of dots that can be read using light. A laser beam
is the usual light source.
The data on the storage medium is read by bouncing the laser beam off the surface of the
medium. If the beam hits a PIT it is reflected back differently to how it would be if there was
LAND. This difference can be detected, so the data can be read.
PITS can be created using the laser beam (for media that is writable such as CD-Rs). The beam
is used in a high-power mode to actually mark the surface of the medium, making a PIT. This
process is known as ‘burning’ data onto a disc.
A CD has digital information stored in the form of laser-created pits on its surface. These in turn
can be read by detecting the laser light scattered from the pit. Large information
Stores data as tiny pits pressed into flat surface by laser.
Internal Working of Optical Disk
S No Step
1. Drive motor is used to spin the disc
2. Tracking mechanism moves the laser assembly
3. A lens focuses the laser onto the disc
4. Laser beam is shone onto disc to read / write
5. Surface of disc has a reflective metal layer / phase change metal alloy
6. Track(s) on the disc have sequence of pits and lands / amorphous and crystalline
state
7. Reflected light in then encoded as a bit pattern
– Optical discs such as CDs and DVDs have smaller capacities than HDDs or tapes and are also
more expensive per gigabyte of storage. They are also direct access media, with rather slower
access than a HDD, and are removable and highly portable. The main types of CD and DVD have
different suffixes, as follows:
– ROM stands for ‘Read-Only Memory’ – these cannot be written to, and are suitable for the
distribution of music, movies, software and encyclopaedias
– R stands for ‘Recordable’ – these can be written to just once and then can only be read from,
making them suitable for storing music or movies or archive copies of documents
– RW stands for ‘ReWritable’ – these can be written to and read multiple times, making them
suitable for making temporary copies of data files for transfer from one computer to another
or regular backup copies
DVD-RAM is a DVD (optical disc) technology for high-capacity data storage for computers. Like
ordinary random access memory (RAM), it can be repeatedly read, written to, and erased.
Intended mostly for removable computer storage, DVD-RAM provides the capabilities of
Rewriteable CD (CD-RW) - users can run programs from the discs, copy files to them and rewrite
or delete them. However, with a storage capacity of up to 9.4 gigabytes (GB) per double-sided
disc, DVD-RAM has many times the capacity of CD-RW.
– Blu-ray discs (BD or BR) have larger storage capacities than other optical storage media and a
higher rate of data transfer. Although disks are expensive, their cost per gigabyte of storage is nearer
to that of a HDD.
Differences between CDs, DVDs, DVD-RAM and Blu-Ray
CD DVD DVD-RAM Blu-Ray
Track Single Spiral Multiple
Single Spiral Track Single Spiral Track
Track Concentric Tracks

Layer Single Double Double Single

polycarbonate polycarbonate polycarbonate polycarbonate
layer layer layer layer
Two sandwiched Two sandwiched
lays causes lays causes
No birefringence Birefringence(light Birefringence(ligh No birefringence
as no sandwiched is refracted into two t is refracted into as no sandwiched
layers separate beams two separate layers
causing reading beams causing
errors) reading errors)
Laser Uses red laser with Uses red laser Uses Blue laser
Uses red laser
wavelength of 650 with wavelength of with wavelength of
with wavelength
nanometres 650 nanometres. 405 nanometres.
of 780
Increases storage Increases storage Increases storage
nanometres
capacity capacity capacity
Read/
Numerous, up to
Write
100,000 times
Cycle
Head Single Head so Single Head so Double Head so Single Head so
Read or Write at Read or Write at a Read and Write Read or Write at a
a time time simultaneously time
The future of optical media
In recent times both the CD and DVD are showing signs of becoming obsolete. Many computer
systems now come with USB connectors only and no DVD or CD drive.
The main method of transferring files between devices has become the flash memory.
Many people now store all their music in the following ways:
• on hard disk drive systems
• in MP3 format on:
• a computer/tablet
• their mobile phone
• a portable music player (such as iPod®)
• using the ‘cloud’ to store all their files so they can access their music from anywhere in the world
• by ‘streaming’ their music from the internet; provided the user has an internet connection, they
can access music.
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Calculating the Storage Requirement of a File
Memory Size Measurement
It should be pointed out here that there is some confusion in the naming of memory sizes.
The unit was established by the International Electro-technical Commission (IEC) in 1998, has
been accepted for use by all major standards organizations, and is part of the International System
of Quantities. The kibibyte was designed to replace the kilobyte in those computer science contexts
in which the term kilobyte is used to mean 1024 bytes. The interpretation of the kilobyte to denote
1024 bytes, conflicting with the SI definition of the prefix kilo (1000), is still common, mostly in
informal computer science contexts.
The IEC convention is now adopted by some organisations. Manufacturers of storage devices often
use the denary system to measure storage size. For example:
0 or 1 = 1 bit
4 bits = 1 nibble
8 bits = 2 niblles = 1 byte
SI Units IEC Units
1 kilo byte = 1000 byte 1 kibi byte (1 KiB) = 1,024 bytes
1 mega byte = 1000,000 bytes 1 mebi byte (1 MiB) = 1,048,576 bytes
(1000 * 1000) (1,024 * 1,024)
1 giga byte = 1,000,000,000 bytes 1 gibi byte (1 GiB) = 1,073,741,824 bytes
(1,000,000 * 1000) (1,048,576 * 1,024)
1 tera byte = 1,000,000,000,000 bytes and so 1 tebi byte (1 TiB) = 1,099,511,627,776 bytes and
on. so on
(1,000,000,000 *1000) (1,073,741,824 * 1,024)

Example Question 1: A company advertises its backup memory device as having 500 GB of
storage. A customer wishes to know how many 8 MB files could be stored on the device. The
company claimed that up to 62 500 files (assuming each file is 8 MB) could be stored. The
customer calculated that 64 000 files could be stored.
Explain the difference between these two storage values. Show any calculations you use in your
explanation. ........................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
.....
Marking Scheme
–company calculation is based on 1 GByte = 1000 Mbyte – so (500 × 1000)/8 = 62 500 files
– customer calculation based on 1 GByte = 1024 Mbyte – so (500 × 1024)/8 = 64000 files
– giving the difference of 1500 files [3]
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Example Question 2: Bytes, Kilobytes and Megabytes are units used for the amount of data
stored in a computer.
(a) State which of these units is most appropriate for the following items of data.
A one page text document: ...............................................................................................................
A ten minute movie clip: ....................................................................................................................
A person’s surname: .................................................................................................................... [3]
(b) A computer has a hard disk of 2 Terabytes.
How much is this in Gigabytes?
You must show your working.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................... [2]
Marking Scheme
a)  A 1-page text document: Kilobyte(s)
 A 10-min movie clip: Megabyte(s)
 A person’s surname: Byte(s)
(b)  Multiply by 1024/1000
 2048/2000 (GB)
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Topical Past Papers

Q 1) Summer 2015 P11

5 Five storage devices are described in the table below.
In column 2, name the storage device being described.
In columns 3, 4, or 5, tick () to show the appropriate category of storage.
1 2 3 4 5
Description of storage device Name of Category of storage
storage device Primary Secondary Off-line
optical media which use one spiral track;
red lasers are used to read and write
data on the media surface; makes use of
dual-layering technology to increase the
storage capacity
non-volatile memory chip; contents of the
chip cannot be altered; it is often used to
store the start up routines in a computer
(e.g. the BIOS)
optical media which use concentric
tracks to store the data; this allows read
and write operations to be carried out at
the same time
non-volatile memory device which uses
NAND flash memories (which consist of
millions of transistors wired in series on
single circuit boards)
optical media which use blue laser
technology to read and write data on the
media surface; it uses a single 1.1 mm
polycarbonate disc

Examiner’s Comments on Question 5

The full range of marks were awarded for this question, with very few candidates gaining full marks.
Candidates could identify the correct category of storage for most of the descriptions, but many candidates
were unable to identify the correct name for the storage device. Many candidates could correctly name ROM
and Blu-ray, but not the remaining three.
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Q 3) Winter 2015 P12
2 Seven computer terms and seven descriptions are shown below.
Draw a line to link each computer term to its most appropriate description.

Reduction of file size by permanently

Interface removing some redundant information from
the file

File compression system for music which

JPEG does not noticeably affect the quality of the
sound

Lossless The file is reduced in size for transmission and

compression storage; it is then put back together again later
producing a file identical to the original

Lossy Hardware component that allows the user to

compression communicate with a computer or operating
system

File compression format designed to make

MIDI photo files smaller in size for storage and for
transmission

Standard adopted by the electronic music

MP3 format industry for controlling devices such as
synthesisers and sound cards

Examiners’ Comments Question 2

Many candidates gained high marks for this question. Some candidates confused common areas such as lossy and lossless
compression.
5 A security system uses sensors, a camera and a microprocessor to capture images of each
person entering a large shopping mall.
(a) Describe how the sensors, camera and microprocessor interact to identify certain people
entering the mall
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
.........................[5]
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(b) Each image taken requires 1 MB of storage. If the camera captures an image every 5 seconds
over a 24 hour period, how much storage is required?
Give your answer in gigabytes and show all your working.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................[2]
(c) The shopping mall has over 100 cameras. At the end of each day all these cameras send their
images, captured over the last 24 hours, to a central computer.
Explain why the mall uses dedicated fibre optic cable rather than transmitting the data over the
local broadband network.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................[2]

Examiners’ Comments Question 5(a) (b) and (c)

In part (a) most candidates gained 2 or 3 marks. Many candidates did not specify any type of sensor that might be used in the
system. If the sensor is not specified, this is something they should look to identify in a question of this nature. Some candidates
were very generic in their response, speaking of values being compared rather than using the context of the question, for example
images being compared.
In part (b) some candidates gained a mark for working out the number of images, a smaller number then made an attempt at
calculating the memory requirement for the system.
In part (c) many candidates showed some understanding of the issues, but many were too vague as they did not compare the two
types of infrastructure. A surprising number of candidates suggested that fibre optic cable is cheaper than conventional broadband
cable.
9 A remote-controlled model car contains RAM, ROM and a solid state drive. The car receives
radio signals from its remote control. It can only receive radio signals of a certain frequency. The
manufacturer sets this frequency and the owner cannot change it. The owner of the model car can
input their own sequence of movements from an interface underneath the car.
(a) Describe the purpose of each of the three types of memory supplied with the car.
RAM: .................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................
ROM: .................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
Solid state drive: ..................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................[3]
(b) The owner needs to be able to enter their own sequence of movements for the model car.
Name a suitable input device.
Input device: ................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
Give a reason for your choice of device.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................[2]
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(c) Explain why the model car uses a solid state drive rather than another type of secondary
storage.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................[2]

Examiners’ Comments Question 9(a) (b) and (c)

In part (a) many candidates gave a definition of RAM, ROM and SSD rather than relating it to the context of the question.
Candidates need to make sure they use a context of a question in their answer, where provided, when appropriate.
In part (b) a surprising number of candidates did not consider where the input device would be placed and therefore gave a range
of unsuitable input devices. They again needed to consider the context of the question.
In part (c) most candidates gained at least one mark. A number of candidates suggested that the SSD was more robust, without any
explanation. Candidates need to make sure that they clarify statements they make with regard to things such as robustness,
reliability and security.
Q 4) Winter 2015 P13
5 A security system records video footage. One minute of video requires 180 MB of storage. The
recording system can store several hours of video footage.
(a) Name and describe a suitable storage device for this recording system.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................. [2]
(b) Calculate how much storage would be needed for 2 hours of video footage.
Show your working and give the answer in Gigabytes (GB).
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................... [2]
Examiners’ Comments Question 5 (a) and (b)
In part (a) some candidate did not consider that the file size would be considerably large and provided an unsuitable device as a
result. If candidates are to state a device that has a small storage capacity but can also have a much larger one, for example a USB,
they need to make sure they state a suitable size for the USB device.
In part (b) many candidates were able to provide a correct calculation for the question.

9 MP3 file compression reduces the size of a music file by 90%.

(a) A music track is 80 MB in size.
Calculate the file size after compression.
............................................................................................................................................
How many MP3 files of the size calculated above could be stored on an 800 MB CD?
.......................................................................................................................................[2]
(b) (i) Explain how MP3 files retain most of the original music quality.
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................... [2]
(ii) State the type of file compression used in MP3 files.
...................................................................................................................................... [1]
(iii) Name another file compression format.
...................................................................................................................................... [1]
23 | P a g e
Examiners’ Comments Question 9 (a) and (b)
In part (a) most candidates were able to carry out a correct calculation for this question.
In part (b)(i) some candidates could provide a good level of detail about MP3 file compression. Many candidates gave a vague
description of compression itself and could not gain any marks for this. In part (b)(ii) many candidates could provide the correct
type of compression, but in part (b)(iii) many candidates provided the opposing compression method, for example lossless and did
not provide a file format.

Q 5) Winter 2015 P11

1 (b) Describe two differences between Blu-ray discs and DVDs.
1: ......................................................................................................................................
2: .......................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................[2]
(c) Describe two differences between DVD-R and DVD-RAM.
1: .........................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
2: ........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................[2]

7 (a) Describe what is meant by lossy and lossless compression when applied to files.
Lossy: .................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................................
Lossless: ............................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................[2]
(b) Name and describe one type of file that uses lossy compression.
Name: .................................................................................................................................
Description: .........................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................[2]

(c) A company advertises its backup memory device as having 500 GB of storage.
A customer wishes to know how many 8 MB files could be stored on the device.
The company claimed that up to 62 500 files (assuming each file is 8 MB) could be stored.
The customer calculated that 64 000 files could be stored.
Explain the difference between these two storage values. Show any calculations you use in your
explanation.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................... [3]
Examiners’ Comments Question 7(a) (b) and (c)
In part (a) some candidates were able to give an accurate description of lossy and lossless compression, but many candidates were
vague in their response and could not obtain marks as a result. Candidates need to make sure they are clear and accurate when
providing a description or definition. It must be clear they have a firm understanding of the term or process.
In part (b) many candidates were able to accurately name a file type that uses lossy compression.
In part (c) some candidates were able to gain a mark by stating that measure of bytes used is different 1000/1024. They were
vague in their description of this though and did not clearly state what the company and the customer used and why the difference
occurred.
24 | P a g e
9 (b) Nicolae needs to send 30 photos to a friend and he chooses to send all 30 together as a
single email attachment. Each photo is 1.8 MB in size, but the maximum possible attachment size
is only 20 MB.
State how Nicolae can solve this problem.
............................................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................ [1]
Examiners’ Comments Question 9(a) and (b)
In part (a) many candidates were able to recognise what was wrong with statement.
In part (b) many candidates were able to identify the file could be compressed.

Q 6) Summer 2016 P11 & P13

11 (a) Four examples of optical storage media are:
• DVD-RW
• DVD-RAM
• CD-ROM
• Blu-ray disc
The table below shows four features of optical storage media.
Tick (✓) the appropriate boxes in the table to indicate which of the features apply to each example
of optical storage media. [4]
Blue laser
Many Red laser
used to
Single track concentric used to read/
read/
tracks write data
write data
DVD-RW
DVD-RAM
CD-ROM
Blu-ray disc

(b) Solid state drives (SSD) are replacing hard disc drives (HDD) in some computers.
(i) Give three reasons why this is happening.
1 .......................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
2 .......................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
3 .......................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................... [3]
(ii) Explain why many web servers still use hard disc drive (HDD) technology.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................[2]
Examiner Report Question 11(a), (b)(i) and (ii)
In part (a) many candidates were able to recognise the properties of each storage media. The most common error made was in
25 | P a g e
stating that a Blu-ray disc has many concentric tracks.
In part (b)(i) some candidates were able to describe one reason, this was commonly that they use less power. For many other
responses, candidates did not refer to the question in their response. Candidates needed to refer to benefits relating to size, weight
and lack of moving parts, being related to the portability of the device.
In part (b)(ii) few candidates were able to provide a reason why HDD was still used. The most common error made was
candidates referring to the misconception that SSD cannot be as large in storage capacity as HDD.
Q 7) Summer 2016 P12
4 Nigel wants to send a large text file electronically to Mashuda.
(a) Describe how the size of the text file can be reduced.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................[3]
(b) This file will be transmitted to Mashuda as an email attachment. Mashuda then stores it on her
computer.
Explain how checksums can be used to verify that the file has not been corrupted during
transmission or data storage.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................[4]
Examiner Report Question 4(a) and (b)
In part (a) many candidates gained a mark for stating that compression could be used. Some candidates gained further marks by
stating the compression method used would be lossless, and describing how this would work. A number of candidates began to
describe the two compression methods, both lossy and lossless. They could not be awarded marks for this as the question required
candidates to describe one suitable method and the only suitable method was lossless.
In part (b) some candidates gained marks for an accurate description of how a checksum is used. A number of candidates
incorrectly referred to Nigel and Mashuda carry out the calculations and the processes. Candidates need to clearly recognise it is
the computer and not the person that carries these things out. A number of candidates incorrectly described a detailed process of
how to calculate a checksum. The question did not require this, it required candidates to show how it was used in error detection,
so this could not be awarded marks.
26 | P a g e
10 There are six descriptions in the table below.
Complete the table below by writing the correct storage device or media in the box next to each
description. [6]
Storage device
Description
or media
Non-volatile memory that can only be read from and not
written to.
Optical storage media that allows very high storage capacity by
using blue/violet laser technology.
Volatile memory that stores data, programs and the parts of the
operating system that are currently in use.
Optical storage media that uses a single spiral track and uses
dual layer technology, allowing high data storage capacity.
Device that stores data by controlling the movement of
electrons within a microchip; there are no moving parts.
Optical storage media that uses concentric tracks allowing
writing and reading to take place at the same time.
Examiner Report Question 10
Many candidates were able to provide suitable storage device. Common errors were the confusion of CD and DVD, and also not
being specific enough for sold state, stating USB, but not relating it to being a USB storage device. USB alone can refer to many
things.
Q 8) Winter 2016 P12
8 Identify whether the four statements about file compression are correct by writing TRUE or
FALSE
in the following table. [4]
Statement TRUE or FALSE
MIDI files store the actual music notes in a compressed
format
JPEG files are examples of lossless file compression
MP3 files are, on average, 90% smaller than the music
files stored on a CD
MP4 files are examples of lossy file compression

Examiner Report
Very few candidates gained full marks for this question. It was clear that candidates did not have a developed
knowledge of file compression. Many candidates were not even aware that MP4 and JPEG are lossy file compression.

Q 9) Winter 2016 P11& 13

10 (b) The current status of the engine is sent to a computer in the aeroplane.
Each piece of data collected is 8 bytes in size. Data collection occurs every 30 seconds.
Calculate the number of kilobytes that would be needed to store the data collected during a
10-hour flight. Show your
working...............................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................

................................................. kilobytes [3]

27 | P a g e
Q 10) March 2017 India

7 A high definition video and a large text file are to be sent as email attachments. Both files are compressed
before sending. Each file is compressed using a different type of data compression algorithm.
Explain, with reasons, which type of data compression algorithm should be chosen for each file.
..........................................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................................[4]

Examiner Report
Most candidates correctly stated the appropriate type of file compression for each of the given files. Some candidates
then incorrectly went on to describe the type of compression used rather than explaining why that method was
chosen.

13 (a) Explain what is meant by primary, secondary and off-line storage. Give an example of each.
Primary storage ................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................
Example ..........................................................................................................................
Secondary storage .........................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................
Example ..........................................................................................................................
Off-line storage ................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................
Example ........................................................................................................................ [6]

(b) A set of photographs has been taken for a wedding. All the guests are to be sent digitally
stored copies through the ordinary postal service. There are fifty photographs and each
photograph is between 1.8 and 2.5 megabytes in size.
Work out the maximum storage space required for a set of photographs. State, with a reason, a
suitable medium to use for the copies to be sent to the guests.
Maximum storage space ....................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
Medium ............................................................................................................................
Reason ...............................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................... [3]

Examiner Report
(a) Many candidates gave vague explanations that were not creditworthy; most candidates could provide at least one
correct example.
An example for primary storage that would gain both marks is:
Primary storage is directly accessible by the CPU.
Example RAM
(b) Many candidates correctly calculated the maximum storage space required for the photographs. Some candidates
incorrectly suggested the use of email or cloud storage thus not taking into account the statement in the question that
copies are to be sent through the ordinary postal service.
28 | P a g e
Q 11) Summer 2017 P11
3 Steffi has a number of files of different sizes that contain her work. [4]
Tick to show whether each statement is true or false.
Statement True False
47KB is larger than 10MB.
250bytes is smaller than 0.5MB.
50GB is larger than 100MB.
1TB is smaller than 4GB.
Examiner Comment on Q 3
Most candidates correctly identified which statement was true or false. The most common incorrect answergiven was ‘true’ given for 47 KB is larger
than 10 MB. It was apparent that some candidates understood a KBto be larger than a MB. Candidates are reminded to follow the instruction given
and tick () the appropriatebox. Some candidates used crosses () instead or a mixture of both.

8 Complete the paragraph by choosing six correct terms from the list.
• Optical
• On-line
• RAM
• HDD
• Primary
• SSD
• Secondary
• ROM
• Off-line
A computer has two different types of memory. .................................... memory is not directly
accessed by the CPU, but it allows a user to store data that can easily be accessed by
applications. Two examples of this type of memory are ....................................
and .................................... . The second type of memory is .................................... memory. This
memory is directly accessed by the CPU. It allows the processor to access data and instructions
that are stored in this memory. Two examples of this memory are ....................................
and .................................... . [6]
Examiner Comment on Q 8
Some candidates gave the correct types and example of storage. Some candidates confused the types ofstorage and gave primary in place of
secondary.

Q 12) Summer 2017 P12

2 Give two examples of primary, secondary and off-line storage.
Primary
Example 1 ........................................................................................................................
Example 2 .......................................................................................................................
Secondary
Example 1 .......................................................................................................................
Example 2 .......................................................................................................................
Off-line
Example 1 ......................................................................................................................
Example 2 .................................................................................................................... [6]
Examiner Comment on Question 2
Some candidates demonstrated a good understanding of each storage type, providing correct examples.Some candidates did not have a clear
29 | P a g e
understanding of the difference between primary and secondarystorage. Many candidates provided two correct examples for off-line storage. It
would be beneficial forcandidates to have a greater understanding of what is meant by primary and secondary storage. Somecandidates gave an
inaccurate answer for off-line storage e.g. USB rather than USB flash memory. USB canalso refer to the method of data transmission, so is not
accurate enough to be awarded a mark.

Q 13) Winter 2017 P12

2 Storage devices and storage media can be categorised as primary, secondary or off-line.
Write primary, secondary or off-line next to each storage device or medium to indicate its most
suitable category.

HDD .........................................................................................................................
RAM .........................................................................................................................
ROM .........................................................................................................................
CD-ROM .........................................................................................................................
SSD .........................................................................................................................
DVD-RAM ...................................................................................................................... [6]

8 (a) A computer has 2048MB of RAM.

How many GB of RAM does the computer have?
Show your working.
...............................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................................GB [2]
(b) Describe one item that is stored in RAM.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................... [2]

(c) Explain three ways that RAM is different to ROM.

1 ...........................................................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................................................
2 ..........................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
3 ..........................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................ [3]
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Q 14) Winter 2017 P13
2 Data files are stored in different file formats.
Complete the table by providing a suitable file format for each file type. The first one has been
done for you. [3]

File type File format

Pictures .JPEG
Text
Sound
Video

9 (a) Optical storage media can be used to store data.

Describe how the data is read from a Compact Disc (CD).
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................... [4]
(b) Kamil wants to store a 16-bit colour image file. The image size is 1000 pixels.
Calculate the size of the file. Give your answer in bytes. Show your working.
Working ...........................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................
Answer ............................... bytes [2]
(c) Describe the differences between primary and secondary storage.
.........................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................... [4]
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Q 15) March 2018 P12 (India)
6 Primary, secondary and off-line are types of storage.
Give an example of each type of storage.
For each example state how it is used.
Primary storage
Example ...............................................................................................................................
Use ........................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................
Secondary storage
Example ...............................................................................................................................
Use ........................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................
Off-line storage
Example ...............................................................................................................................
Use ........................................................................................................................................
.......................................................................................................................................... [6]
Comments on Question 6
Many candidates answered this question well. It would be helpful if candidates understood that providing USB
as a response cannot be awarded a mark as this is a method of data transmission. Candidates must provide a
storage device, so must indicate that it is a USB storage device.
Some candidates described the storage itself and how it operates, rather than information about what it is
used.

9 A 32-second sound clip will be recorded. The sound will be sampled 16000 times a second.
Each sample will be stored using 8 bits.
Calculate the file size in kilobytes. You must show all of your working.

File Size ..................................................................................................... kB [3]

Comments on Question 9
Many candidates provided a correct answer for this question. It would be helpful if candidates clea
rly showed all the stages of their working in the work space. Some candidates scattered their worki
ng around, outside of the provided answer space into other answer spaces, which has the risk of b
eing unseen by the examiner.
32 | P a g e
Q 16) Summer 2018 P11
8 (d) The supermarket uses secondary storage and off-line storage to store data about its stock.

Explain what is meant by secondary storage and off-line storage.

Secondary storage .............................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................
Off-line storage ...................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................................... [4]

Q 17) Summer 2018 P12

1 Different units of data can be used to represent the size of a file, as it changes in size.
Fill in the missing units of data, using the list given: [4]
 byte
 gigabyte (GB)
 megabyte (MB)
 nibble
Smallest bit
……………………………………
……………………………………
Kilobyte (KB)
………………………………….
………………………………….
Largest Terabyte (TB)
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Q 18) Winter 2018 P12

2 A computer uses RAM and ROM to store data.
(a) The table contains three statements about RAM or ROM.
Tick (✓) to show whether each statement describes RAM or ROM. [3]

Statement RAM(✓) ROM(✓)

Stores the programs and data that are currently in use
Used to boot up the computer when power is turned on
Contents are retained when power is turned off
(b) Circle the storage category that includes both RAM and ROM.
Primary Secondary Off-line [1]
(c) Explain what is meant by off-line storage.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................................[2]

Q 19) Winter 2018 P13

3 An elevator (lift) has a maximum weight limit of 2400 kg. The weight carried is monitored by a
sensor and a microprocessor. Describe how the sensor and the microprocessor are used to make
sure the maximum weight limit is not
exceeded. ...........................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................... [6]
34 | P a g e
9 Describe two differences between Read Only Memory (ROM) and Random Access Memory
(RAM).
Difference ................................................................................................................................... .....
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................................
Difference 2 .................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................ [4]
12 Explain the difference between a Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) file and a MP3 file.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................... [4]
13 State which types of storage device or media would be most suitable for these scenarios.
For each device or media, justify your choice.
(a) Creating a backup of 150GB of
data. .............................................................................................
Justification .........................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................... [2]
(b) Storing applications on a tablet
device. .........................................................................................
Justification .........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................... [2]
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(c) Storing a 1200MB high-definition promotional movie about a new car. The movie is to be given
to people who are interested in buying a new car. .............................................................................
Justification .........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................... [2]

Q 20) March 2019 P12

1 (a) Elle has a file stored on her computer that is 20 MB in size. Jordan has a file that is 10GB in
size. Tick () to show which is the larger file. [1]

File size Tick ()

20MB
10GB

(b) Bob has a file stored on his computer that is 3500kB in size. Gerty has a file that is 3MB in
size. Tick () to show which is the larger file. [1]
File size Tick ()
3500kB
3MB

4 Darius is sending several programs that he has created to his friend Selma.
(c) He wants to compress the files to send them as he needs to attach them to an email.
Darius tells Selma he is going to use lossy compression. Selma tells him that he should use
lossless instead.
Explain why Selma tells Darius to use lossless compression instead of lossy.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................................... [4]
6 (c) Nadia uses several types of computer storage for her homework and other projects.
(i) Five examples of computer storage are given.
Tick (3) to show if the computer storage is Primary, Secondary or Off-line. [5]

Primary Secondary Off-line

Storage example
() () ()
Solid state drive (SSD)
Blu-ray disc
USB flash memory
Random access memory (RAM)
Read only memory (ROM)
36 | P a g e
(ii) Nadia is considering purchasing a magnetic storage device.
Describe how a magnetic storage device stores data.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................... [6]

(iii) Give two advantages of using a magnetic storage device rather than a solid state storage
device.
Advantage 1 ......................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................................
Advantage .......................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................... [2]

Q 21) Summer 2019 P11

5 The following text is stored as a text file:

She sells sea shells on the seashore. The shells that she sells are sea shells I am sure.
Explain how lossless compression would compress this file.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................................... [5]
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6 (b) The law company wants to purchase a new file server.
The company can purchase a server with either solid state storage or magnetic storage. After
discussion, it decides to purchase a file server with magnetic storage.
Explain why the company chose magnetic storage rather than solid state storage.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................................... [4]
(c) The law company also uses optical storage.
Give three different examples of optical storage.
1 ................................................................................................................................................
2 ................................................................................................................................................
3 ................................................................................................................................................ [3]

Q 22) Summer 2019 P12

2 A finance company uses off-line storage to archive their accounts.
(a) Explain what is meant by off-line storage.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................... [2]
(b) The computers in the finance company use both primary and secondary storage.
(i) Give one example of primary storage.
1 ................................................................................................................................................... [1]
(ii) Give two examples of secondary storage.
1 .........................................................................................................................................................
2 ................................................................................................................................................... [2]
38 | P a g e
4 (a) Marley wants to store a video he has created for his school project.
He considers using a DVD or a Blu-ray to store the video.
Explain two differences between a DVD and a Blu-ray.
1 ........................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................
2 .......................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................... [2]

(b) (i) Marley also needs to store ten 8-bit colour images in a file for his project. Each image is 500
pixels wide and 300 pixels high. Calculate the total file size in megabytes (MB) for all Marley’s
images.
Show all your working.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................
File size ....................................................... MB [3]

7 (b) A microprocessor uses ROM.

Explain what is meant by ROM.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................... [3]
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Q 23) Winter 2019 P13

1 (ii) Identify two storage devices that may be used in the library’s system.
Storage device 1 ...............................................................................................................
Storage device 2 ...............................................................................................................[2]

7 The Von Neumann model for a computer system has several components that are used in the fe
tch-execute cycle.
(a) One component is main memory.
(i) Describe what is meant by main memory and how it is used in the Von Neumann model for a co
mputer system.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................... [3]

Q 24) Winter 2019 P12

1 Computer memory size is measured in multiples of bytes.

Four statements about computer memory sizes are given in the table.

Tick (✓) to show if the statement is True or False. [4]

Statement True (✓) False (✓)

25kB is larger than 100MB

999MB is larger than 50GB
3500kB is smaller than 2GB
2350bytes is smaller than 2kB
40 | P a g e
5 Audrey wants to send a sound file to Nico using email.
The file is too large to attach to an email so Audrey decides to compress the file.
She uses lossy compression to reduce the size of the sound file.
(a) Describe how lossy compression reduces the size of the sound file.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................................... [4]
(b) Nico asks Audrey why she used lossy compression rather than lossless.
(i) State one advantage Audrey could give of using lossy rather than lossless to compress the
sound file.
............................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................... [1]

(ii) State one disadvantage Nico could give of using lossy rather than lossless to compress the
sound file.
............................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................... [1]
(c) Audrey sometimes records MIDI files.
(i) Explain what is meant by a MIDI file.
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................................... [4]
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(ii) MIDI uses serial data transmission.
Explain two advantages of using serial transmission rather than parallel transmission.
Advantage 1 ......................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
Advantage 2 ......................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................... [4]
11 Robert has a mobile device that uses RAM, ROM and an SSD.
(a) State what the RAM, ROM and SSD are used for.
RAM ..........................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
ROM .........................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
SSD ..........................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................... [3]
(b) Give two reasons why an SSD, rather than a HDD, is used in the mobile device.
Reason 1 ..................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
Reason 2 ..................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................... [2]
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Q 25) March 20 P12

3 Priya studies music at school. She is buying a new computer to complete her school work at home.
(a) Priya has a choice between an internal Hard Disk Drive (HDD) and an internal Solid State Drive (SSD)
to store data.
(i) Give one similarity between an HDD and an SSD.
...........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [1]
(ii) Explain three differences between an HDD and an SSD.
1 ........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
2 ........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
3 ........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................... [3]
(b) Priya needs to transfer files between the school and her home computer.
Identify one off-line storage device she could use to transport the files.
............................................................................................................................................. [1]
(c) Priya is using sound editing software to record and edit different music tracks.
(i) Identify two input devices she would use for this task.
Device 1 ............................................................................................................................
Device 2 ............................................................................................................................ [2]
(ii) Identify two output devices she would use for this task.
Device 1 ............................................................................................................................
Device 2 ............................................................................................................................ [2]
(d) Priya shares her sound files with other students. Before sharing the sound files, she compresses the files
using lossless compression.
Describe how lossless compression reduces the size of a sound file.
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................. [2]
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(e) Priya currently uses MIDI files to store her music. Priya’s friends have asked her if they can have an
MP3 version of the file.
(i) Give two features of a MIDI file.
1 ........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
2 ........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................... [2]

(ii) Give two features of an MP3 file.

1 ........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
2 ........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................... [2]

Q 26) Summer 20 P12

9 (a) Six statements are given about storage devices. [6]

Tick (✓) to show if the statement applies to hard disk drive (HDD) storage or solid state drive (SSD)

storage.
Some statements can apply to both.
HDD SSD
Statement
(✓) (✓)

It has a limited number of read/write cycles

It uses magnetic properties to store data
It has moving parts
It is non-volatile storage
It can be used as an external storage device to back up data
It uses flash memory to store data

(b) Optical storage is another type of storage.

Give two examples of optical storage.
Example 1 .................................................................................................................................
Example 2 ................................................................................................................................. [2]
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Q 27) 15a Summer 20 P11

1 (d) A smartphone needs both RAM and ROM.

State why a smartphone needs RAM and ROM.
RAM ..........................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
ROM .........................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................... [2]

3 (c) Carla wants to reduce the file size of the photos she has transferred to her computer.
She does not want the quality of the photos to be reduced, so she uses lossless compression.
Describe how lossless compression reduces the file size of the photos.
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................. [4]

Q 28) Winter 20 P12

1 (c) (ii) She wants to compress the recording to make sure that the file is as small as possible for the
website.
Identify which type of compression she should use and describe how this would compress the file for the
website.
Type of compression .........................................................................................................
Description ..........................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [4]
(iii) Give two benefits of compressing the file for the website.
Benefit 1 ............................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
Benefit 2 ............................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................... [2]
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3 Alessandro has some important data stored on his computer.
(b) Alessandro uses an SSD to store his data.
Describe what is meant by an SSD and how it operates to store data.
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................. [4]
(c) Alessandro also uses off-line storage to store his data.
Three examples of off-line storage are Blu-ray, CD and DVD.
Six statements are given about off-line storage.
Tick (✓) to show if each statement applies to Blu-ray, CD, or DVD.
Some statements apply to more than one example of off-line storage. [6]
Statement Blu-ray (✓) CD (✓) DVD (✓)
A type of optical storage
Has the largest storage capacity
Can be dual layer
Read using a red laser
Has the smallest storage capacity
Stores data in a spiral track

Q 29) Winter 20 P13

1 Five hardware devices are given.
Tick (✓) to show if each device is an Input, Output or Storage device. [5]

Device Output (✓) Storage (✓)

Input (✓)
Solid state drive (SSD)
Headphones
2D cutter
LCD projector
Microphone
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9 Elle uses both CDs and DVDs to store her school projects.
(a) Give three similarities between a CD and a DVD.
1 ................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
2 ................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
3 ................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................... [3]
(b) State one difference between a CD and a DVD.
...................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................. [1]

Q 30) March 21 P12

1 (c) The hockey club wants to increase the number of people that can watch each match to 2000.
The 8-bit binary register may no longer be able to store the value.
Give the smallest number of bits that can be used to store the denary value 2000.
............................................................................................................................................. [1]
Working space
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................

2 Gurdeep takes high definition photographs using a digital camera. She has set up a website where users
can view thumbnails of her photographs. A thumbnail is a small version of the high definition photograph.
(a) Gurdeep compresses the high definition photographs to create the thumbnails. She uses lossy
compression.
Describe how lossy compression creates the thumbnails.
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................. [3]
4 A supermarket sells many products. Each product has a barcode.
(b) The supermarket stores data using a Solid State Drive (SSD).
(i) Explain how an SSD stores data.
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [3]
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(ii) One advantage of an SSD rather than a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) is that it has no moving parts, so it is
more durable.
State one other advantage of the supermarket using SSD rather than HDD.
...........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [1]

Marking Scheme
Q 1) Summer 2015 P11

Q 3) Winter 2015 P12

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Q 4) Winter 2015 P13

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Q 5) Winter 2015 P11

Q 6) Summer 2016 P11 & P13

Q 7) Summer 2016 P12

Q 8) Winter 2016 P12

Q 9) Winter 2016 P11& 13

Q 10) March 2017 India

Q 11) Summer 2017 P11

Q 12) Summer 2017 P12

Q 13) Winter 2017 P12

Q 14) Winter 2017 P13

Q 15) March 2018 P12 (India)
Q 16) Summer 2018 P11

Q 17) Summer 2018 P12

Q 18) Winter 2018 P12

Q 19) Winter 2018 P13

Q 20) March 2019 P12
Q 21) Summer 2019 P11
Q 22) Summer 2019 P12

Q 23) Winter 2019 P13

Q 24) Winter 2019 P12
Q 25) March 20 P12
Q 26) Summer 20 P12

Q 27) 15a Summer 20 P11

Q 28) Winter 20 P12
Q 29) Winter 20 P13

Q 30) March 21 P12