Storage

Storage

1. Magnetic storage refers to systems that keep information or data on a magnetized material. This is very slow but can store lots of data.

   • Examples are: • Reel-to reel-tapes • Cassette tapes • Floppy Disks • Magnetic tapes
   • Magnetic: Tend to be large capacity, relatively cheap, used as main storage for computers, eg to store Operating System.

2. Optical storage is the storage of data on an optically readable medium. Data is recorded by making marks in a pattern that can be read back with the aid of light.

   • Examples are: • CDs • DVDs

3. Solid state storage is a memory based on silicon technology rather than magnetic or optical technology. It has no moving parts and is very fast compared to other memory methods.

   • Examples are: • RAM • ROM • Flash • Memory sticks
   • Solid state: Relatively expensive, smaller capacity, No moving parts so not sensitive to movement,portable, magnetic formats (eg floppy disks) are no longer used in favour of solid state.