NIMCET 2026 — Computer PYQ

The correct option is 1. Hard Drive --> RAM --> Cache --> CPU Registers.

Explanation:

In computer architecture, the memory system is designed as a hierarchy. As we move from the bottom of the hierarchy to the top, the access speed increases, the cost per bit increases, and the storage capacity decreases.

Here is the breakdown of the memory types ordered from Slowest to Fastest:

1. Hard Drive (Slowest): This is secondary storage (magnetic disk or solid-state drive). It has the largest capacity but the slowest data access time because it is located furthest from the CPU core.

2. RAM (Random Access Memory): Also known as main memory. It holds the data and programs currently in use by the CPU. It is much faster than a hard drive but slower than cache memory.

3. Cache Memory: Built inside or very close to the CPU chip using Static RAM (SRAM). It stores frequently accessed data to reduce the average time to access memory from the RAM.

4. CPU Registers (Fastest): These are small internal storage locations located directly inside the CPU processor itself. They operate at the same speed as the processor clock, making them the fastest memory elements in a computer system.

Therefore, the correct increasing order of access speed (Slowest $\to$ Fastest) is:

$$\text{Hard Drive}\to \text{RAM}\to \text{Cache}\to \text{CPU Registers}$$