MODULE 4: MEMORY AND STORAGE DEVICE

Learning objectives
In this module, you will :
 Learn about definition of main memory.
 Learn about types of main memory
 Distinguish between computer memory and computer storage.
 Learn about different types of magnetic drives and disks.
 Give instructions and advice on how to protect data.
 Use technical vocabulary associated with optical storage devices and media.
 Learn and use discourse connector.
 Learn about the technical details of flash memory and its uses.
 Learn different ways of making new words – affixation, conservation and
compounding.
 Describe flash-based devices.

UNIT 6: MAIN MEMORY AND TYPES OF MAIN MEMORY.

Discuss , a, b, c, d, e, 6.5.1, 6.5.2, dịch

6.1 Main Memory
Memory is used to store the information (programs and data) that the computer is
currently using. It is sometimes called main or primary memory. One form of memory is
called RAM, which stands for Random Access Memory. This means that any location in
memory may be accessed in the same amount of time as any other location. The address
of a memory cell (ô nhớ) is used when we wish to access that particular memory location.
This means that we must know the address of a cell in memory before we can access its
contents. A byte is a small unit of storage, capable of storing unsigned numbers (số
không xác định) in the range 0 to 255. In order to allow you to store larger quantities in
memory, the hardware allows you to treat a number of consecutive cells (ô nhớ liền kề)
as a unit. For example, by using two consecutive cells, 16 bits are available for storing
information giving an unsigned number range from 0 to 2 16-1 (65,535). By using 4
consecutive cells, 32 bits are available, allowing numbers in excess of 1 billion to be
manipulated (được tạo ra).
RAM is a form of short term of volatile memory. Information stored in short term
storage is lost when the computer is switched off or when power fails. There is therefore
a requirement for permanent or long term storage which is also referred to as secondary
storage (bộ lưu trữ thứ cấp). This role is fulfilled by disk and tape storage.
6.2 Types of Main Memory
There are two major forms of RAM called static RAM (SRAM) and dynamic
RAM (DRAM).
SRAM is the more expensive of the two as it is more complexly manufactured
but it is considerably faster to access than DRAM. DRAM has an access time in the
range of 60-100 nanoseconds upwards, while SRAM access times range from 4 or 5
nanoseconds upwards. It is not uncommon for a computer system to have a small amount
of SRAM and a large volume of DRAM, making up its total RAM capacity. The SRAM
is used to construct a cache memory which stores frequently accessed information and so
speed up memory access for the system.
6.3 Primary Memory.
There are other forms of Primary memory such as ROM, PROM, EPROM,
EEPROM and flash memory.
ROM (Read Only Memory): It is the same as RAM in so far as any location can
be read from at random, but it cannot be written to. ROM is pre- programmed by the
manufacturer and its contents cannot be changed, hence its name read only. This means
that ROM is a form of permanent storage. However, since the user cannot store
information in ROM, its usefulness is restricted. ROM is typically used to store
programs and data that are required to start up a computer system. When a computer is
powered on, its RAM will contain no useful information, but the processor is designed to
runs programs that it finds in memory. One major use of ROM is to store the initial
program used by the processor when the machine is started. Another use of ROM in
personal computers is to store operating systems subprograms for carrying out I/O and
other activities. The term firmware is used for combination of ROM and the software
stored on it
PROM stands for programmable ROM (bộ nhớ chỉ đọc có thể lập chình), which
means that the memory chip manufacturer provides a form of ROM that can be
programmed via the use of a special hardware device. This allows computer system
designers to place their own programs on the PROM chip. If their programs do not
operate correctly, the designer can program another PROM chip, as opposed to getting
the memory manufacturer to do it, as is the case when a designer uses ROM.
EPROM (bộ nhớ chỉ đọc có thể lập chình có thể xóa) is a form of ROM that is
erasable which means that the contents of the EPROM chip can be erased in their
entirety and the chip can be reprogrammed (a limited number of times). As in the case of
PROM, EPROM can only be programmed and erased (via exposure to ultra violet light)
by a special hardware device, outside the computer system.
EEPROM (bộ nhớ chỉ đọc có thể lập trình và xóa một cách điện tử) is
electrically erasable PROM. EEPROM can be erased inside the computer system using
an electrical current. Its major advantage is that it does not have to be removed from the
computer system.
NVRAM (Bộ nhớ truy cập ngẫu nhiên bất biến): in recent years work has
advanced on such non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) devices. Flash memory is one such
device. This memory can be accessed like RAM (read and written), but is non-volatile
i.e. it is a form of permanent storage. At the time of writing flash memory is available in
the 1 to 6 Mb range. One disadvantage of current NVRAM is that they cannot be
written to as quickly as ordinary RAM. However, they are much faster to access than
disk storage systems and they consume less power, so that in small portable computer
systems they offer an alternative low-powered option to disk storage. However,
NVRAMs are more expensive than disk storage device
(Source: Basic English for Computing, Oxford University
Press)

6.4 Computer memory and computer storages

In this unit you will learn the differences between computer memory and computer
storage. Memory and storage are important concepts to master in Information
Technology. The two terms are sometimes used interchangeably (hoán đổi cho nhau), so
it is important to understand some key differences
Computer memory needs to be quick. It is constantly feeding the CPU with data to
process. Since nobody likes to wait for a computer, high-quality computers will have fast
processors and lots of quick memory.
Computers do not normally process all the information they have at once. They also
need to save some data for long term use. This is where storage comes in. Think of all the
video files, mp3s, photos, documents, etc. on your PC. These files are not always being
processed by the CPU, they are mostly just hanging around waiting to be used at some
point. Storage does not need to be as quick as memory, but there does need to a lot more
of it. This is a key difference between memory and storage.
Because memory needs to be much faster than storage, it is rather more expensive
than storage per KB. A typical desktop computer today, typically has between 512 MB
and 8 GB of memory running at speeds of anywhere from 300 MHZ to 1.2 GHZ. Don't
worry if you don't know what those measurements mean at this point. We will get to
them in a later unit.
Memory is almost always based on semiconductor technology (công nghệ bán dẫn).
Examples of common computer memory include RAM, ROM, and video memory.
Memory is typically volatile in nature (mang bản chất tùy biến), meaning that it needs
power in order to retain its state. There are exceptions, however, such as EPROMs, which
can retain their state even when the power is off.
Computer storage is typically cheaper, slower, and more plentiful than computer
memory. Storage comes in many different types including magnetic storage, optical
storage, and more recently semiconductor storage. Storage is typically non-volatile in
nature, meaning that it retains its state even when the power is off. A typical computer
today comes with anywhere between 50 GB and 1 TB of computer storage.
The most popular example today of magnetic storage is the hard disk drive. These
devices use rotating, magnetically-charged platters (tráng 1 lớp từ tính) to store data.
Hard disk drives are popular because they can store a lot of data very reliably with
relatively quick access times. Other examples of magnetic storage devices include the
tape drive and diskette. Tape drives and diskettes are both good examples of legacy
devices. It's unlikely they will even be made much past 2010
Trends in computer storage are always changing. Now it looks as if traditional
magnetic hard disk drives might eventually be replaced by SSDs or solid state drives.
SSDs have many key advantages over magnetic storage including 1) no moving parts and
2) less power consumption. This makes them very good for laptops where battery life and
overall durability can be big issues. If the technology continues to improve, we may even
see them in desktop computers as well.
Optical storage is another technology strategy (chiến lược) used in computer
storage, and is particularly useful for sharing audio, video, and larger programs. Optical
storage works by a laser burning or reading data off a plastic disc coated (tráng) with
various types of light sensitive material in it. Due to reliability and space limitations,
optical storage is seldom used as a primary means of data storage. You will learn more
about optical storage in later units. In case you don't understand what optical storage is,
look no further than your CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM drive. Here are some optical storage
solutions in action!
Okay now you know the difference between memory and storage. That wasn't so
hard, was it?
(Source: Basic English for Computing, Oxford University
Press)
 Discussion Questions
1. What are the major differences between memory and storage? How much
memory does your computer have? How much storage does your computer have?
2. Do you think semi-conductor storage will ever completely replace
magnetic storage? When and why?
3. What is meant above when the author says that volatile memory needs
power in order to "retain its state?"

A. COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING SENTENCES WITH DIFFERENT TYPES OF

MEMORY:
1. Computer storage can be classified as_______, ________and
2. is a type of fast memory that uses a separate clock signal in
addition to the normal control signals.
3. provides extremely fast access for sections of a program and its
data.
4. is the memory used to store graphics data on a graphic card.
5. is a common storage device that reads and writes data on metal
disks inside a sealed case.
6. is a new data storage device that uses non-moving parts and lower
energy consumption
7. is a popular storage device that reads and writes data on a floppy
disk.
8. is a type of memory that can be accessed in any order.
9. is a type of memory that holds instructions which are needed to
start up the computer.
10. is a type of storage that can be read by a laser light.

B. COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPHS WITH THE WORDS GIVEN

A. Memory chips B. of C. expanded D. purchasing E. computer

Random Access Memory or RAM is the memory that the computer uses to
temporarily store the information as it is being processed. The more information being
processed the more RAM the (1) needs.
RAM memory chips come in many different sizes and speeds and can usually be (2)
 . Older computers came with 512 Kb of memory which could be
expanded to a maximum of 640 Kb. In most modern computers the memory can be
expanded by adding or replacing the memory chips depending on the processor you have
and the type of memory your computer uses. (3)
range in size from 1 Mb to 4 Gb. As computer technology changes, the type (4)
memory changes as well making old memory chips out of date.
Check your computer manual to find out what kind of memory your computer uses
before (5) new memory chips.

C. SOLVE THE FOLLOWING CROSSWORD USING THE CLUES GIVEN:

1 2

3
4

7
 ACROSS
1. Portable hard drives are used to make a of important files or
transport data between PCs.
4. PCs usually have one hard, , called C.
6. DVD-RW means
Digital Versatile Disc- .
7. Non- memory is computer memory that can retain the stored
information even when not powered.

DOWN
2. Flash memory are used to store information in digital cameras and
other handheld devices.
3. Unit of memory equivalent to 1,024 megabytes.
5. When a disk is formatted, its surface is divided into concentric circles known as
.
(Source: Check your English vocabulary for computer and Information Technology)

D.FILL IN THE BLANK WITH THE CORRECT WORDS GIVEN:

PROCESSORS AND MEMORY

chip dual core megabytes megahertz

motherboard processor speed upgraded

The "brain" of a computer is the (1)________. Most of these are made by Intel and
AMD, and are sometimes referred to as"(2)________".The fastest processors
are(3)_______,which means that there are two processors working together. The
(4)______of a processor is measured in (5) ____., which is usually written as MHz
A computer's memory is measured in (6)_______If a computer has 1,024
megabytes of memory, and the memory type is SDRAM, this is written as 1,024 MB
SDRAM, and is pronounced "a thousand and twenty-four megabytes ess- dee-dram".
The processor and memory modules are located on the (7)______.Changing a
computer's processor is not generally practical, but the memory can usually be
(8)____________.

E. CHOOSE THE CORRECT ANSWER:

 1. Scanners, printers and webcams are____________________
A. extras B. peripherals C. externals

2. Add extra USB to your computer_______________________

A. ports B. doors C. windows
3. You can connect a USB plug to a PS/2 port by using_____________
A. an adaptor B. a bridge C. a connector

4. The data and applications on your computer are stored on the_________

A. card B. hard drive C. capacity

5. Do you like this CD? I can____________you a copy if you want.

A. do B. burn C. eject
6.5. Consolidation
6.5.1. Choose the best answer
1. Which memory is non-volatile and may be written only ?
A. RAM
B. SRAM
C. EPROM
D. PROM
2. A memory that holds micro programs is……….
A. Core memory
B. ROM
C. RAM
D. Control memory
3. The control unit of a processor................. the flow of information between the
arithmetic unit and the memory.
A. coordination
B. coordinates
C. coordinating
D. coordinator
4. Apart from storing more data, hard drives transfer data at ……….. rate than
floppy disk.
A. high
B. higher
C. low
D. lower
 5. CD-ROM is a………………
A. Semiconductor memory
B. Memory register
C. Magnetic memory
D. None of above
6. Which of the following is used as a primary storage device?
A. Magnetic drum
B. PROM
C. Floppy disk
D. All of these
7. Name or number used to identify a storage location devices?
A. A byte
B. A record
C. An address
D. All of above
8. RAM is used as a short memory because it is……….
A. volatile
B. has small capacity
C.is very expensive
D.is programmable
9. Which of the following memories needs refresh?
A.SRAM
B.DRAM
C.ROM
D. All of above
10. Which of the following is not a primary storage device?
A. Magnetic tape
B. Magnetic disk
C. Optical disk
D. None of above
6.5.2.Fill in the blanks with the given words below

normally electrical carried so that capability

control system components main permanently

Motherboard, in computer science, the(1)…….circuit board in a computer. The

most important computer chips and other electronic(2)..........that give function to a
computer are located on the motherboard. The motherboard is a printed circuit board that
connects the various elements on it through the use of trace, or(3)………pathways. The
motherboard is indispensable to the computer and provides the main computing(4)
………………….
Personal computers(5)…………. have one central processing unit (CPU), or
microprocessor, which is located with other chips on the motherboard. The manufacturer
and model of the CPU chip(6)……..by the motherboard is a key criterion for designating
the speed and other capabilities of the computer. The CPU in many personal computers is
not(7)……….. attached to the motherboard, but is instead plugged into a socket(8)
………..it may be removed and upgraded. Motherboards also contain important
computing components, such as the basic output/input (9)………….. which contain the
basic set of instruction require to(10)…………the computer when it is first turned on.
(Source: English for computer science, Nhà xuất bản thống kê)

6.5.3. Translate the following passage into Vietnamese

As mentioned previously, one of the most important characteristics of a computer is
its capability of storing information in its memory long enough to process it. Not all
computers have the same type of memory. In this section, three types of memory will be
discussed: core memory, semiconductor memory (or chip), and bubble memory.
The memory of the first computers was made up of a kind of grid of fine vertical
and horizontal wires. At each intersection where the wires crossed, there was a small
ferrite ring called a core (hence the name "core memory") which was capable of being
either magnetized or demagnetized. Every intersection had its unique address:
consequently, when an electrical current was passed through the wires, the magnetized
as well as the unmagnetized cores were identified by their respective addresses. Each
core represented a binary digit of either 0 or 1, depending on its state. Early computers
had a capacity of around 80,000 bits; whereas now, it is not surprising to hear about
computers with a memory capacity of millions of bits. This has been made possible by
the advent of transistors and by the advances in the manufacture of miniaturized
circuitry. As the result, mainframes have been reduced in both size and cost.
Throughout the 1950s, 1960s and up to the mid-1970s, core memory dominated the
market.
In the 1970s, there was a further development which revolutionized the computer
field. This was the ability to etch thousands of integrated circuits onto a tiny piece (chip)
of silicon, which is a non-metallic element with semiconductor characteristics. Chips
have thousands of identical circuits, each one capable of storing one bit. Because of the
very small size of the chip, and consequently of the circuits on it, electrical signals do
not have to travel far, hence, they are transmitted faster. Moreover, the size of the
components containing the circuitry can be considerably reduced, a step which has led
to the introduction of both minis and micros. As a result, computers have become
smaller, faster, and cheaper. There is one problem with semiconductor memory,
however: when power is removed, information in the memory is lost unlike core
memory, which is capable of retaining information during a power failure.
Another development in the field of computer memories is bubble memory. The
concept which consists of creating a thin film of metallic alloys over the memory board.
When this film is magnetized, it produces magnetic bubbles, the presence, or absence of
which represents one bit of information. These bubbles are extremely tiny, about 0.1
micrometer in diameter. Therefore, a magnetic bubble memory can store information at a
greater density than existing memories, which makes it suitable for micros. Bubble
memories are not expensive, consume little power, are small in size, and are highly
reliable. There is probably a lot more to learn about them, and research in this field
continues.
(Source: English for IT & Computer Learners)
 UNIT 7: STORAGE DEVICE
Bài tập: 7.4.1 7.4.2, dịch

7.1. Magnetic storage devices

7.1.1. Types of magnetic drive
A. Look at the pictures and descriptions below and find the following
1. The name of the hard drive on a PC platform________________
2. The type of hard drive that plugs into a socket at the back of a
computer_________
3. The system that works in sequential format__________________
4. The size and storage capacity of a floppy disk_________________

The inside of A portable Magnetic tapes and

A 3.5” floppy drive
hard drive external hard drive
and diskette
Most PCs have drive A tape drive reads
A floppy disk drive
one internal hard External hard and writes data on
uses 3.5” disks,
drive, usually drives are tapes. It is sequential
which can store
called C: drive. It connected to the access- i.e.to get to a
1.44MB of data; it is
is used to store USB or FireWire particular point on
usually assigned to
the operating port of the the tape, it must go
the A drive.
system, the computer. They through all the
Floppy drives are
programs and the can be as small as a preceding points.
becoming
user’s files in a wallet but can have Tapes can hold
increasingly rare.
convenient way. as much capacity hundreds of
A hard drive can as internal drives; gigabytes of data
hold hundreds of they are typically and are used for data
gigabytes of data. used for backup or collection, backup
as secondary and archiving
storage.
(Source: Infotech – English for computer users -Forth edition).
B. Complete these sentences with the given words below

capacity storage archiving hold secondary

1. There are basically three types of magnetic ___________ device available to the
computer user hard, diskettes and tapes.
2. The _____________ of a 3.5” floppy disk is only 1.44MB.
3. Hard drive can________ hundreds of times more data than floppy disks.
4. A portable hard drive is a good choice for ____________ storage
5. Magnetic tapes are used for______________ information that you no longer need
to use regularly.

7.1.2 Magnetic storages

Magnetic storage devices store data by magnetizing particles (từ hóa các hạt từ
tính) on a disk or tape.
A floppy disk is so called because it consists of a flexible sheet of plastic (một lớp
nhựa dẻo), coated with iron oxide- a magnetizable material. A floppy disk drive spins at
360 revolutions per minute(rpm), so it’s relatively slow. However, a hard drive spins at
over 7,200 rpm and stores data on a stack of metal rotating disk (một đĩa xoay bằng kim
loại) called platters (đĩa xoay). This means you can store much more data and retrieve
information much faster.
New disk need to be formatted before you can use them, unless they come
preformatted from the manufacturer. When the disk is formatted, the operating system
(OS) organizes the disk surface into circular tracks (rãnh đồng tâm) and divides each
track into sectors (cung từ). The OS creates a directory which will record the specific
location of files. When you save a file, the OS moves the read/write head of the drive
towards empty sectors, records the data and writes an entry for the directory, later on
when you open that file , the OS look for its entry in the directory, moves the read / write
heads to the correct sectors , and reads the file in the RAM area. However, formatting
erases any exiting files on a disk, so do not format disks on which data that you don’t
want to lose is stored.
The OS allows you to create one or more partitions (sự phân) on your hard drive,
in effect dividing it into several logical parts. Partitions let you install more than one
operating system ( e.g.Windows and Linux) on your computer.You may also decide to
split your hard drive because you want to store the OS and programs on one partition and
your data files on another; this allows you to re-install the OS when a problem occurs,
without affecting the data partition.
The average time required for the read/write heads to move and find data is called
seek time (or access time) and it is measured in milliseconds (ms); most hard drives have
a seek time of 7 to 14 ms. Don’t confuse this with transfer rate – the average speed
required to transmit data from the disk to the CPU, measured in megabytes per second.
How to protect your hard drive
 Don’t hit or move the computer while the hard drive is spinning. Hard drives are
very sensitive to vibration and shocks, especially when they are operating; when the
read/write head touches the rotating disk, it can scratch and damage the disk surface. This
is known as head crash.
 You shouldn’t turn your computer off and on quickly. Wait at least ten seconds to
ensure that the drive has stopped spinning
 Check your hard drive regularly for logical and physical errors. To check and
repair a drive, you can use a disk diagnosis utility like Windows ScanDisk
 To minimize the risk of data loss or corruption, you should install an up-to-date
virus scanner. You should also back up your hard drive regularly
(Source: Infotech – English for computer users -Forth edition).

7.1.3. Language work: Precautions

A. Look at the HELP box and match the instructions (1-6) with the pictures (a-f)
1. Do not expose discs to heat or direct sunlight.________
2. Check for viruses before opening files you receive from the Web or via
email_____
3. Make backup copies of your files._________
4. Don’t shake or move the computer violently while the hard drive is
spinning______
5. Keep your discs away from water and humidity._________
6. Hold discs by the edges, or by one edge and the centre hole.________

B. In pairs, discuss what you should or shouldn’t do to protect data. Use the
suggestions below.
Example: discs on top of each other (stack)
You shouldn’t stack discs on top of each other./ Don’t stack discs on top of each
other.
1. Your anti-virus program regularly, since new viruses are created everyday
(update)
2. Discs in a protective case (store)
3. Passwords and security devices to protect confidential information (use)
4. On discs with permanent marker pens (write)
5. The discs into the discs drive carefully (insert)
6. Floppies or hard drive near magnets; they can damage the data stored on them
(leave)
Note: disc (optical media); disk (magnetic storage media)

7.1.4. Word building

A. Look at the words in the boxes. Are they nouns, verbs, adjectives or adverbs? Write
n, v, adj or adv next to each word and then complete the sentences below.
 Magnet magnetic magnetically
magnetism magnetize magnetized
1…………….is the science of magnetic phenomena and properties.
2. Floppy disk and hard drive are……………storage devices.
3. Data is recorded on a disk in the form of……….spots called bits.

fragment fragmentation
defragmenter fragmented

4. After you create, delete and modify a lot of files, the hard drive becomes ...........,
with bist and pieces spread all over the disk.
5…………. slows down the speed at which data is accessed because the disk drive
has to work harder to find the parts of a file stored in many different locations.
6. To reorganize your hard drive, you can use disk optimizer or ................; this will
reorder your files into continuous clusters.
7.2. Optical Storage
A. Read the text and find the followings:
1. The advantages and disadvantages of optical discs over magnetic disks.
2. The storage capacity of a double-sided, dual layer DVD.
3. The difference between a DVD burner and a DVD recorder.
4. The feature of a portable DVD player which allow the user play different
format.
5. Two possible successor to DVDs.
6. Where the Blu-ray format gets its name from?

Optical discs and drives

Optical discs can store data at much higher densities than magnetic disks. They
are therefore ideal for multimedia application where images, animation and sound occupy
a lot of disc space. Furthermore, optical discs are not affected by magnetic fields,
meaning that they are secure and stable, and can be transported through airport metal
detectors without damaging the data. However, optical drives are slower than hard drives.

CDs and DVDs

At first sight, a DVD is similar to a CD. Both discs are 120 mm in diameter and 1.2
mm thick. They also both use a laser beam to read data. However, they are different in
internal structure and data capacity. In a DVD, the tracks are very close together thus
allowing more track. The pits in which data is stored are also smaller, so there are more
pits per track. As a result, a CD can hold 650 – 700 MB, whereas a basic DVD can hold
4.7 GB. In addition, a DVD can be double-sided and dual layer, with a capacity of 17
GB.

CDs come in three different formats:

 CD-ROM (read-only memory) are read only units, meaning you cannot change
the data stored on them (for example, a dictionary or a game).
 CD-R (recordable) discs are write-once devices which let you duplicate music
CDs and other data CDs.
 CD-RW (rewritable) discs enable you to write onto them many times, just like a
hard disk.
DVDs also come in several formats:
 DVD-ROMs are used in DVD computer drives. They allow for data archiving as
well as interactive content (for example, an encyclopaedia or a movie).
 DVD-R or DVD+R can only be recorded on once.
 DVD-RW or DVD+RW discs can be erased and re-use many times. They are used
to back up data files and to record audio and video.
The DVD drive used in computers is also called a DVD burner because it records
information by burning via a laser to a blank DVD discs. However, a DVD recorder
typically refers to a standalone unit which resembles a video cassette recorder. New DVD
recorders can play all CD and DVD formats. There are also portable DVD players –
handheld devices which let you watch movies or TV, play games and listen to music,
wherever you are. They come with a build-in DVD drives and widescreen (rectangular
16:9 format) LCD display. They usually support multi-format playback – that is, they
can play many file formats, including DVD-video, DivX, CD audio discs, MP3 music
and JPEG images.
HD-DVD and Blu-ray discs
These two competing formats are expected to replace current DVD as the standard
for watching movies at home. On one side are Toshiba, Microsoft and the DVD Forum,
who support the High Definition-DVD (HD-DVD). Sony, Panasonic, Samsung and JVC
and many movie studios are behind the Blu-ray format.

A Blu-ray disc has a capacity of 25 GB (single layer), 50GB (dual layer) and 100
GB (four layer). Unlike DVDs, which use a red laser to read and write data, Blu-ray uses
a blue -violet laser, hence its name. Blu-ray discs can record and play back high-
definition television and digital audio, as well as computer data.
(Source: Infotech – English for computer users -Forth edition).

B. Read the text again and make notes about the features of CDs, DVDs and Blu-ray
discs.
Capacity and formats Possible uses
CD
 DVD

Blu-ray

7.3 Flash memory

7.3.1 Flash-based gadgets
Flash memory is used in many hand-held devices. Match the descriptions
(1-6) with the picture below (a-f).
1. This hand-held console lets you play games stored on ROM game cards which
have a small amount of flash memory to save user data, for example high scores.
2. This Flash memory card is used as ‘digital film’ to store images on a digital
camera.
3. This wireless LAN card allows laptop and PDA user to access the Internet from
any Wi-Fi access point.
4. This USB flash pen driver is the latest mobile driver for your computer.
5. It looks like an ordinary watch, but this USB driver from Edge Tech can store up
to 1GB of flash memory. It will let you save and transfer your photos, songs and data
files easily.
6. This- flash-based player provides everything you need to play music and store
data on the go. It also comes with a built-in FM radio and voice recorder.
7.3.2. Reading: Memory in a flash!
A . Look at the title of the text. Why is it a suitable title for an article about flash
memory? Read the first paragraph of the text to find out.
B . Read the whole text and answer these questions.
1 What is flash memory?
2 What are the differences between RAM memory and flash memory?
3 What can devices which used multi –level cell technology do?
4 What are the differences between flash drivers and external hard driver?
5 What is the advantage of using U3 technology in flash driver?
6 How much data can a flash memory card hold?
7 What is the name of the flash card created by Sony for its digital cameras?

Memory in a flash!
 Flash memory is a type of non-volatile memory that can be electronically erased
and reprogrammed. Its name was invented by Toshiba to express how much faster it
could be erased –‘in a flash’, which means ‘very quickly’.
Unlike RAM, which is volatile, flash memory retains the information stored in the
chip when the power is turned off. This makes it ideal for use in digital cameras, laptops,
networks switches, video game cards, mobile phones and portable multimedia players. In
addition , it offers fast read access times (although not as fast as RAM), with transfer
rates of 12MB per second. Unlike ROM chips, flash memory chips are rewritable, so you
can update programs via software.
Inside the chip, data is stored in several floating gate transistors, called cells. Each
cell traditionally stores one bit of data (1 = erased and 0 = programmed). New device
have a multi-level cell structure so They can store more than one bit per cell. The chips
are constructed with either NOR or NAND gates. NOR chips function like a computer’s
main memory, While NAND works like a hard driver. For example, in a camera, NOR
flash contains the camera’s internal software, while NAND flash is used to store the
images.
Flash memory is used in several ways.
 Many PCs have their BIOS (basic input/output System) stored on a flash memory
chip so it can be update if necessary.
 Modems use flash memory because it allows the manufacturer to support new
protocols.
 USB flash drivers are used to save and move MP3s and other data files between
computers. They are more easily transported than external hard drivers because they use
solid-state technology, meaning that they don’t have fragile moving parts that can break
if dropped. However, USB flash drivers have less storage capacity than hard drives. New
U3 smart drives allow users to store both applications and data. They have two driver
partitions and can carry applications that run on the host computer without requiring
installation.
 Flash memory cards are used to store images on cameras, to back up data on
PDAs, to transfer games in video consoles, to record voice and music on MP3s players or
to store movies on MP4 players. They are as small as a stamp, and capacity can range
from 8MB to several gigabytes. The only limitation is that flash cards are often not
interchangeable between devices. Some formats include: CompactFlash, Secure Digital,
Multi-Media Card, Mini SD card, and XD-Picture Card. Sony has its own product called
the Memory Stick, used in its digital still cameras, video camcorders and the PlayStation
Portable. The photos stored in a digital camera can be offloaded to a computer via cable
or wirelessly. Another option is to have a flash card reader permanently connected to
your PC; you simply eject the card from the camera and put it into the reader instead of
having to plug the camera in.
 The future of Hard Driver may be hybrid hard drivers. Hybrid hard drives
Combine a magnetic Hard disk and flash Memory into one device. This allows computers
to boot, or start, more quickly and also reduces power consumption.
(Source: Infotech – English for computer users -Forth edition).

C. Find words or phrases in the text with the following meanings

1. permanent; able to hold data without power ________________________
2. able be rewritten many times________________________
3. different sections of a disk drive or storage area _______________
4. to make a copy of a file so that the original is not lost _______________
5. transferred to another device _________________________________
6. a peripheral device that reads writes flash memory cards ____________
7. a product that integrates two different technologies _______________

7.3.3 Language work: Word-building

HELP BOX
Word building

We can create words from existing words in three main ways:

• Affixation (adding a prefix or suffix)
Adding a prefix:
volatile→ non-volatile
date→ update
Adding a suffix:
erase→ erasable
install→ installation
• Conversion (turning a noun into a verb, or a verb into a noun, etc.)
network (noun)→to network(verb)
We networked all the PCs in the office.
We created a network of all the PCs in the office.
• Compounding (putting two or more words together)
hand + held→ handheld
 I bought a new hand-held last week.
Compounds can be written as two separate words (flash card), as two words
joined with a hyphen (solid-state), or as one word (hand-held). Unfortunately, there
are no rules, and some compounds even change spelling over time. For example, web
site began as two words, then became hyphenated (web-site) and is now written as
one word – website. Always check your dictionary or Google if you are not sure. In
pronunciation, compounds normally have the main stress on the first part, and the
secondary stress on the second part, for example ‘video, game’.

A. Look at the HELP box and then, using affixation, conversion and compounding, try
to make as many words as you can from blog, mail and print. Use a dictionary and the
Internet to help you.

blog mail print

blogger (a person who to mail (the verb form) printout (the pages
writes a blog) produced by the printer)

B. Choose the correct word in brackets to complete this description of a digital voice
recorder. Use a dictionary to help you.

Olympus WS-320M digital voice recorder

Slim, attractive, and highly functional, the Olympic WS-

320M digital voice recorder packs 1GB of internal flash memory
into its 1(lighted/ lightweight/ lighten) housing, letting you record
up to 227 hours of high-quality audio in WMA format. It’s ideal
for
 2 (record/recordable/recording) notes or long lectures, interviewing people, or
capturing song ideas before they disappear. As an added bonus, the WS-320M can store
up to 226 WMA or MP3 songs for high-quality stereo 3 (player/Playback/playoff).

The WS-320M features five separate file 4 (folds /Folding/folders), capable of

holding 199 files each, so you can organize nearly 1,000 files by subject, theme or other
category. Users also have a choice of four recording modes: HQ for high-quality audio,
LP and SP for extended recording times, and ST HQ.

For stereo recording. And thanks to the voice 5 (activation /activate /active) option,
users don’t need to press a single button to start recording-the WS-320M will record as
soon as the built-in microphone picks up sound.
Perhaps the most convenient feature, however, is The built-in USB 6 (connector
/connect /connected), which eliminates the need for a USB cable. Once this is connected,
you can 7 (downloadable /download /upload) music files, images of documents from
your PC, in effect turning the recorder into a small hard your computer for 8
(store/storage/storeroom) or multimedia use.
(Source: Infotech – English for computer users -Forth edition).

7.4 Consolidation
7.4.1. Choose the best answer
1. Which of the following is a secondary memory device?
A. Keyboard
B. Disk
C. ALU
D. All of the above
2. A scanner is ……….that reads images and converts them into electronic codes
which can be understood by a computer.
A. software
B. a storage device
C. a peripheral
D. an output device
3. The difference between memory and storage is that memory is ……….... and
storage is ………….
A. Temporary, permanent
B. Permanent, temporary
 C. Slow, fast
D. All of above
4. What is the best definition of 'tape drive'?
A. A legacy storage device which can read and write data slowly from a removable
magnetic medium (normally 3.5" in diameter and holding 1.44 MB of data).
B. A type of memory which is manufactured with permanent contents which cannot
be modified
C. A type of storage using integrated circuits to store data; examples include RAM,
ROM, and flash memory.
D. A legacy storage device using magnetic tape; normally reading and writing data
slower rate and used for backups.
5. Which of the following memory is capable of operating at electronic speed?
A. Semiconductor memory
B. Magnetic disks
C. Magnetic drums
D. Magnetic tapes
6. What is the best definition of 'SSD' or 'solid state drive'?
A. A type of storage using integrated circuits to store data; examples include RAM,
ROM, and flash memory
B .A type of memory which is manufactured with permanent contents which cannot
be modified
C. A newer data storage device meant to replace a traditional hard disk drive; these
are characterized by non-moving parts and lower energy consumption
D. All the above
7. What is the best definition of 'semiconductor storage'?
A. A type of storage using integrated circuits to store data; examples include RAM,
ROM, and flash memory
B. A legacy storage device using magnetic tape; normally reading and writing data
slower rate and used for backups.
C. This is either dedicated or shared memory set aside specifically for the graphics
processor
D. All the above
8. What is the best definition of 'optical storage'?
A. A legacy storage device which can read and write data slowly from a removable
magnetic medium (normally 3.5" in diameter and holding 1.44 MB of data)
 B. A non-volatile (permanent) memory type that is erasable via ultra-violet light and
reprogrammable
C. A legacy storage device using magnetic tape; normally reading and writing data
slower rate and used for backups
D. A data storage technique using a pattern of markings on a disc that can be read
by a laser; examples include CD-ROM, and DVD-ROM technology.
9. What is the best definition of 'floppy disk drive'?
A. A legacy storage device which can read and write data slowly from a removable
magnetic medium (normally 3.5" in diameter and holding 1.44 MB of data)
B. A data storage technique using a pattern of markings on a disc that can be read
by a laser; examples include CD-ROM, and DVD-ROM technology
C. A type of memory which is manufactured with permanent contents which cannot
be modified
D. A type of storage using integrated circuits to store data; examples include RAM,
ROM, and flash memory
10. What is the best definition of 'magnetic storage'?
A. A storage technique using patterns of magnetized particles on a metallic surface
to store data; examples include hard disk drives, tape drives, floppy disk drives
B. A type of storage using integrated circuits to store data; examples include RAM,
ROM, and flash memory
C. A legacy storage device using magnetic tape; normally reading and writing data
slower rate and used for backups.
D. A newer data storage device meant to replace a traditional hard disk drive; these
are characterized by non-moving parts and lower energy consumption

7.4.2. Fill in the blanks with a given word below.

memory recovering spelling magnetic rotated

subdivided transferred storage failure server

Storage devices in the form of a disk or tape are used to store the programs and data
that are not being used. Note that the American(1)…………. of disk is commonly used,
although the British spelling, disc, is sometimes used. Before a program or data can be
used, it must be(2)………….. from the storage device to the main RAM(3)……………..
Hard disks consist of a set of magnetic coated metal disks that are vacuum- sealed
inside a case to keep out the dust. The(4)…………surfaces of the disks are formatted
using a read/write head to provide magnetic storage areas. These storage areas form
concentric circles called tracks and each track is(5)…………into sections called sectors.
The disks are(6)………..at high speed and read from or written to by the read/write head
that moves across the surface of the disks.
In (7)………. computers, hard disks can be connected together and made to operate
as one unit using RAID (a redundant array of inexpensive disks). This can speed up the
system and provide a way of (8)…………..data if the system crashes (fails suddenly and
completely, usually referring to the(9)………of a hard disk). There is a variety of optical
(10)……… devices that use laser light to read or write to a disk, including: CD-ROMs
(compact disk read only memory). CD-R (recordable compact disk). CD-RW (rewritable
compact disk), DVD (digital versatile disk-previously known as digital video disk).
(Source: Oxford English for Information Technology. Oxford University)

7.4.3. Translate the following passage into Vietnamese.

Optical disks can store information at much higher densities than magnetic disks.
Thus, they are ideal for multimedia applications where images, animation and sound
occupy a lot of disk space. Besides, they are not affected by magnetic fields. This means
that they are secure and stable, e.g. they can be transported through airport metal
detectors without damaging the data. However, optical drives are slower than hard drives.
While there are hard drives with an average access time of 8 mms, most CD-ROM drives
have an access time of 150 to 200 mms. There are various types of optical drives : CD-
ROM systems offer everything, from shareware programs to dictionaries and
encyclopedias, from multimedia databases to 3-D games. A lot of institutions have
discovered that CD-ROM is the most economical way of sharing information. In fact, one
CD-ROM disk (650 MB) can replace 300,000 pages of text (about 500 floppies), which
represents a lot of savings in distributing materials and corporate databases. In addition,
CD-ROM drives can play music CDs while you work. Yet CD-ROM technology has one
disadvantage: you cannot write anything onto a CD-ROM disk. You can only 'read' it,
like a book.
CD-Recorders come in two different forms: CD.R and CD. RW. CD-R machines
record on CD-R (write-once) disks, allowing you to create and duplicate CDs. They are
used to back up hard disks or to distribute and archive information. In fact, these systems
are the modern version of old WORM (write once, read many) disks. CD-RW machines
hold CDRW (rewritable) disks that you can erase and re-use, just as you would do with a
hard disk.
 The future of optical storage is called DVD (digital versatile disk). A DVD~ROM
can hold 17 GB, about 25 times an ordinary.. CD-ROM. For this reason, it can store a
large amount of multimedia software and complete Hollywood movies in different
languages. They can also play music CDs and CD-ROMs. However, DVD-ROMs are
'read-only' devices. To avoid this limitation, companies also produce DVD rewritable
drives.
Magneto-optical (MO) drives use both a laser and an electromagnet to record
information. Consequently, MO disks are rewritable, i.e. they can be written to, erased,
and then written again. They usually come in two formats: (i) 5.25" cartridges can hold
more than 2 GB; (ii) 3.5" optical disks have a capacity of 230 to 640 MB. They are ideal
for back-up and portable mass storage.
(Source: English for Information Technology. Oxford University Press)

RERFERENCE MATERIAL FOR MODULE 4

1. Manahar (2006) Computer Storage device, BPB Publications

2. Rabinovitz, L., & Geil, A. (2004) Memory bytes, Duke University Press
3. Khurshudov, A (2001) The Essential guide to computer data storage, Prentice Hall
Ptr Publishing