Use of Buffers (Cambridge International A-Level Computer Science)
Exam board Cambridge International · A-LevelUpdated 2025-09-03
Buffers
What is a buffer?
- A buffer is a temporary storage area that holds data while it is being transferred between two devices or processes
- Buffers help manage speed differences between components, ensuring smooth data flow
How buffers work
- Data is collected in the buffer before being processed or output
- When the receiving device is ready, it takes data from the buffer
- This prevents data loss and allows devices with different speeds to communicate effectively
Examples
| Buffer | Description |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | Stores keystrokes until the processor is ready to handle them |
| Holds print jobs so the processor can move on while the printer outputs the data at its own speed | |
| Video | Stores a portion of data before playback to prevent pauses caused by network delays |
Exam Hint Key points
- Buffers are used to synchronise data transfer between fast and slow devices
- They improve efficiency and avoid bottlenecks
- Without buffers, data could be lost or delayed if one device is not ready to process information
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