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Storage Media

  • Definition:
    Storage media refers to the physical devices on which data, instructions, and information are stored in a computer system.
  • Two main categories:
    1. Primary Storage (volatile, temporary, small in size)
    2. Secondary Storage (non-volatile, permanent, large capacity)

Types of Storage Media

1. Magnetic Storage Media

  • Uses magnetic patterns to store data.
  • Common in traditional computers and servers.
  • Examples:
    • Hard Disk Drive (HDD):
      • Large capacity, cheaper than SSD.
      • Used for OS, applications, and files.
    • Floppy Disk (obsolete): Small storage (1.44 MB).
    • Magnetic Tape: Used for backups, sequential access.

2. Optical Storage Media

  • Uses laser technology to read/write data.
  • Portable, cheap, commonly used for media and software.
  • Examples:
    • CD (Compact Disc): 700 MB.
    • DVD (Digital Versatile Disc): 4.7 GB – 17 GB.
    • Blu-ray Disc: 25 GB – 128 GB.

3. Solid-State Storage Media (Flash-based)

  • No moving parts → faster, durable, portable.
  • Stores data in memory chips.
  • Examples:
    • SSD (Solid State Drive): Faster alternative to HDD.
    • USB Pen Drive / Flash Drive: Portable storage, 2 GB–1 TB.
    • Memory Cards (SD cards): Used in cameras, mobiles.

4. Cloud Storage (Modern Storage Media)

  • Data stored on remote servers accessed via the internet.
  • Provides scalability, accessibility, and backup.
  • Examples: Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, iCloud.

5. Other Specialized Storage Media

  • Hybrid Drives (SSHD): Combines HDD + SSD.
  • Network Attached Storage (NAS): Storage accessible over a network.
  • Tape Libraries (Data Centers): Used for large archival storage.

Comparison of Storage Media

TypeExamplesCapacitySpeedPortability
MagneticHDD, Magnetic TapeHigh (MBs–TBs)ModerateLow
OpticalCD, DVD, Blu-rayMedium (MBs–100 GBs)ModerateHigh
Solid-StateSSD, USB, SD CardsHigh (GBs–TBs)Very FastVery High
Cloud StorageGoogle Drive, iCloudVirtually UnlimitedDepends on InternetVery High

✅ Summary for Exams

  • Magnetic (HDD, Tape) → Cheap, large, slower.
  • Optical (CD, DVD, Blu-ray) → Portable, moderate speed, less used today.
  • Solid-State (SSD, USB, SD Card) → Fast, durable, expensive.
  • Cloud → Unlimited, accessible anywhere, depends on internet.