Management Information System (MIS) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a secondary storage technology that uses microchips to store information?

1. cache memory

2. virtual memory

3. redundant array of independent disks

4. solid state drive

The correct answer is: solid state drive

The choice of solid state drive as the correct answer aligns with the definition of secondary storage technology that utilizes microchips to store data. Solid state drives (SSDs) use flash memory, which is composed of microchips, to retain and access information. This technology allows for faster data retrieval and improved performance compared to traditional mechanical hard drives that rely on spinning disks. Cache memory, while also using microchips, is considered a type of primary storage located closer to the CPU to accelerate data access rather than functioning as secondary storage. Virtual memory, on the other hand, is a technique that extends the apparent amount of physical memory using disk space, not a standalone storage technology. Redundant array of independent disks (RAID) is a method of storing the same data in different places to ensure reliability and performance but does not refer to a specific type of storage medium itself, disqualifying it from being classified as a secondary storage technology on its own.