Data Backup and Storage Quiz

Backing Up Data

• Backing up refers to copying files or data to a different storage medium as a safeguard against problems with the primary storage device.
• Reasons to back up data include:
  • Preventing data loss due to hardware failure (fires, floods, etc.) or power outages.
  • Protecting against data damage caused by hackers.
  • Avoiding accidental file deletion or overwriting.
  • Safeguarding against virus attacks.

Types of Access

• Two main types of file access:
  • Serial Access: Data is accessed sequentially, starting from the beginning and searching through until the desired information is found. For example, magnetic tapes.
  • Direct Access: Data can be accessed directly without needing to read through preceding data. For example, hard disk drives.

Storage Capacity Units

• Storage sizes are typically measured in units like KB, MB, GB, and TB.
• Storage units represent powers of 2. For example, 1 KB is equal to 2^10 bytes.
• An example of storage capacity: 1 GB is equivalent to approximately 500,000 pages of text.

Magnetic Storage Media

• Magnetic storage media uses magnetic properties to store data.
• The surface of the media is magnetized to hold bits of data, which can be read by a device.
• Examples include:
  • Magnetic Tape: An old but reliable storage method that uses a thin strip of magnetically coated plastic. It is typically used for backing up large quantities of data.
  • Floppy Disk: An outdated, portable storage device that holds data on a thin plastic disc. It has a low storage capacity and is slow.
  • Fixed/ Internal Hard Disk Drive (HDD): The primary storage device found in computers. It offers fast data access, large storage capacities, and is typically used to store operating systems, software, and files.
  • Portable/ External Hard Disk Drive: Similar to internal HDDs but are connected externally through a USB port. They are used for backup, data transfer, and portable storage due to their design.

Optical Storage Media

• Optical storage media employs light sources to read and write data onto discs.
• Data is stored as "pits" and "lands" on the surface of the disc, which are interpreted as binary data.
• The process of writing data onto the disc using a laser is called "burning."

CD/DVD ROM

• A read-only memory (ROM) format, meaning data cannot be written or erased.
• Pre-loaded with data during manufacturing.
• Used for storing music, software, and movies.
• Maximum storage capacity:
  • CD-ROM: Up to 800 MB
  • DVD-ROM: 4.7 GB

CD-R/DVD-R

• "R" stands for recordable, meaning data can be added to the disc once, and then it becomes read-only.
• Commonly used for recording music and films.
• Maximum storage capacity:
  • CD-R: 700 MB
  • DVD-R: 4.7 GB

CD-RW/DVD-RW

• "RW" stands for re-writable, allowing data to be written, erased, and rewritten multiple times.
• Used for recording TV programs, CCTV footage, and backing up computer files.
• Maximum storage capacity:
  • CD-RW: 700 MB
  • DVD-RW: 4.7 GB

DVD-RAM

• Offers faster access compared to other DVD types.
• Allows simultaneous recording and playback of data.
• Uses a special phase-changing material for writing and erasing.
• Maximum storage capacity:
  • 4.7 GB
  • 9.4 GB (Dual side)

Blu-Ray Discs

• Employs a blue laser for faster data transfer and access.
• Offers significantly larger storage capacity compared to standard DVDs.
• Used in home video consoles, for storing and playing movies, and as a storage medium for PCs and camcorders.
• Storage capacities:
  • 25 GB
  • 50 GB
  • 100 GB

Solid State Storage Media/ Flash Storage

• A type of non-volatile memory that stores data electronically, without moving parts.
• Offers faster data access and greater durability than magnetic storage.
• Examples include:
  • Solid State Drive (SSD): A replacement for traditional hard disk drives in computers. Offers significantly faster data access and is more durable.
  • Memory Sticks/ Pen Drives: Small, portable storage devices connected via USB. Used for data transfer and storage.
  • Flash Memory Cards: Compact storage cards used in digital cameras, smartphones, and other devices.

Flash Memory Types

• Different types of flash memory:
  • ROM (Read Only Memory): Non-volatile memory that cannot be reprogrammed after manufacturing.
  • PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory): Can be programmed once.
  • EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory): Can be erased by exposure to ultraviolet light.
  • EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory): Can be erased and reprogrammed electronically.

Test your knowledge on data backup strategies, types of access, and storage capacity units. This quiz will cover the importance of backing up data and the differences between serial and direct access methods. Ensure you grasp the concepts of data safety and management in computing.