Computer Science GCSE
Cache
What Cache means in Computer Science GCSE, as defined for OCR.
Definitions of Cache
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Cache in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
Fast memory inside or close to the CPU that stores frequently used instructions and data, so a larger one reduces the need to access slower main memory.
A small, fast type of volatile memory located within the CPU architecture, used to store copies of frequently used instructions and data.
Topics that use Cache
- CPU performance (OCR GCSE)
- Primary storage (memory) (OCR GCSE)
Related terms
- Cache size
- Clock speed
- Computer start-up sequence
- CPU access to instructions and data
- Factors limiting CPU performance
- Number of cores
- Page file or swap file
- Primary storage
Using Cache in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Computer Science questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Computer Science GCSE termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge