Computer Storage Types

Computer Storage Types

• Computer storage is any physical device that stores information temporarily or permanently.
• Storage devices are hardware components used to store, move, and retrieve data files and objects.
• Storage types can be categorized as permanent (long-term) or temporary (short-term).

Examples of Permanent Storage Devices

• Compact Disc (CD): A type of optical disc used for storing digital data, commonly used for music and movies.
• Hard Disk Drive (HDD): A traditional storage device that uses spinning disks for data storage and retrieval. Data is stored magnetically on the disks.
• Solid State Drive (SSD): A newer storage device that uses flash memory, faster than HDDs, typically without moving parts.
• USB Flash Drive: A small, portable device that connects to a computer to store data using flash memory, convenient for transferring files and backups.
• Memory Cards: Removable storage cards, often used with digital cameras, smartphones, or other devices.

Examples of Temporary Storage Devices

• Temporary storage is used for short term storage, for tasks like running a program. This type of storage is often faster but is lost when turned off.

Measuring Memory Storage Sizes

• Memory sizes are measured in increasing increments: bit, byte, kilobyte, megabyte, gigabyte, and terabyte.
• A byte is 8 bits.
• A kilobyte is 1,024 bytes.
• A megabyte is 1,024 kilobytes.
• A gigabyte is 1,024 megabytes.
• A terabyte is 1,024 gigabytes.

Cloud Storage

• Cloud storage is a service that stores data on remote servers. Data is accessed via the internet.

Optical Discs

• Optical discs use lasers to read and write data. Common examples include CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.

Memory Cards

• Memory cards are small removable storage devices frequently used in electronic devices like cameras, smartphones, tablets, and digital audio players. They store files like photos, videos, music, etc.