A company uses both solid-state and optical secondary storage.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2024). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [2] Any two from: • To store data/files permanently • otherwise, data/programs would need to be downloaded/entered/installed every time the computer was used • To allow software to be installed on the computer • For the creation of virtual memory
2. [6] Any six from (Max 3 for one type only): • Solid-state has no moving parts • ... optical does have moving parts • Solid-state is faster to access data • ... optical is slower to access data • Solid-state uses less power to operate • ... optical uses more power to operate • Solid-state runs quietly • ... optical makes more noise • Solid state is more durable/robust • ... optical is less durable/robust • Solid state storage has a large storage capacity • optical has a much smaller limit to its storage capacity • Solid-state is more expensive per GB of data • optical is cheaper per GB of data • Solid-state stores data onto silicon chips/transistors using logic (floating/control/NAND/NOR) gates to control the movement of electrons • optical stores data by using lasers to burning pits and lands onto a disk