Motorola MT2000 manual Random Access Memory RAM, Read Only Memory ROM, Hard-Disk Drive, Diskettes

GETTING STARTED MTSX RSS

2.3.1 Random Access Memory (RAM)

Random Access Memory (RAM) is a storage place in the system unit used to run programs and operating systems. The amount of RAM varies from computer to computer, and it directly affects which programs will run on your computer. With more RAM you can run larger programs. Most programs indicate how much RAM is required to run the RSS. You must have at least 200k of free RAM to execute this RSS.

2.3.2 Read Only Memory (ROM)

Read Only Memory (ROM) is a storage place in the system unit that is used by the computer for start-up, booting and Power-On Self-Test (POST) purposes. The ROM is “read-only,” which means a user cannot write or save data to it, over it, delete it, or in any other way destroy it by using the keyboard keys. The program in the ROM is hard-coded into the ROM chip, and as such is protected from user errors.

2.3.3 Hard-Disk Drive

The hard-disk drive stores a user’s programs and files (data). The data can originate from data the user generates at the keyboard, or from data that is copied from a diskette in a diskette drive, explained below. The memory capacity of hard-disk drives varies from computer to computer and can be increased with the purchase and installation of a memory upgrade. Many hard-disk drives can store 20 megabytes (20MB = 20 million bytes), 30MB, or more than 40MB of data. Most hard disks are labeled as the “C” drive.

2.3.4 Diskettes

Diskettes also store users’ programs and files but are different from hard disks because of their transportable, small size and packaging. A diskette must be “formatted” before storing your files and programs on it. After a diskette is inserted into a diskette drive, data on the magnetic diskette can be retrieved, stored, manipulated or erased.

Diskettes come in 3-1/2 inch and 5-1/4 inch sizes, and their memory capacity varies from 360K (low density) to 1.44MB (high density). The RSS is distributed to you on a 3-1/2” low density diskette and two 5-1/4” low density diskettes so that it may be easily loaded onto any appropriate computer, regardless of the type of diskette drive that is available. Handle the diskettes carefully - avoid contact with the shiny, brown, magnetic disk surface under the protective plastic cover on the 5-1/4” diskette and the magnetic disk surface under the sliding metal plate on the 3-1/2” diskette. Such contact could damage the data or make it unreadable by the drive.

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