Storage Devices and Media

Start with a storage overview

Begin with the Storage Devices mind map that covers flash memory. It describes USB memory sticks as devices that store data and files for transfer to other computers. It also mentions solid state drives. Use it to make a short list of the devices you recognize and those you want to explore further.

Next, look at the Storage Devices mind map that compares hard disk drives, solid state drives and USB flash drives. Its points on read and write speeds and storage capacity give you a way to compare the devices as you study.

Explore devices and memory

Another Storage Devices mind map describes hard disk drives that use spinning magnetic disks to store software and data in files. A separate map covers hard drives, DVDs, magnetic tape and flash memory, with advantages and disadvantages.

The map about optical storage describes devices that use a laser to read and write, including Blu-ray, DVD and CD-ROM. A lower-case storage devices map also covers RAM and ROM. It describes RAM as volatile, meaning that it loses its contents when power is turned off.

Use maps and quizzes together

After studying a map, try the Storage Devices quiz or the Storage quiz. Then return to the map and check the points you want to review. You can also use a storage flashcard deck alongside a map, moving between the prompts and the related explanations.

Teachers can select a map for a class activity and use a quiz as a follow-up. School students can use the same sequence when preparing for an exam: read, try a quiz, and return to the relevant map.

Place the topic in its unit

Storage Devices and Media is one section of Computer Hardware and Components, a unit in Computing and ICT (programming, computer science, digital skills, educational technology). The page also lists broader resources such as the Computer Hardware mind map. Choose a resource that fits what you are studying and explore it at your own pace.