Basic Computer Hardware 2(Storage devices)

Computer storage is a space where data and information are kept. It saves work, store files, keep programs, backup data.

Types of Storage

Primary Storage (main memory): inside computer, temporary, fast, loses data when power is off. It includes

1. Random Access Memory (RAM): temporary "working memory"

a. it holds currently running program and data

b. volatile: looses data when power is off

c. Fast

d. Size 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, 16GB

2. Read Only Memory (ROM): Permanent memory

a. Stores start up instructions (BIOS)

b. Non volatile: keeps data when power is off

c. Read Only: cannot easily change

Secondary storage (Permanent Storage)-long term, keeps data when power is off

1. Hard Disk Drive(HDD)

a. main storage inside computers

b. spinning magnetic disks

c. Capacity: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB+

d. Cheaper but slower than SSD

2. Solid State Drive

a. Modern HDD alternative, no moving parts

Advantages-much faster, durable, quiet, less power

Disadvantages: More expensive, smaller capacity for same price

3. USB Drive (Pen Drive)

a. portabe

b. Plug into USB Port

c. Sizes 4GB-25GB

Uses: transfer files, backup documents

Care: eject safely before unplugging

4. Memory Card(SD Card)

a. Small cards for phones, cameras, tablets

Types: SD, MicroSD, CF

Sizes :8GB-512GB

Use card reader to connect to computer

5. Optical Discs

Types: ROM(read-only), R(recordable one), RW (rewritable)

6. External Hard drive

a. Portable HDD/SSD in external case

b. conects via USB

c. Sizes 500GB-8TB

Uses: backup, extra storage, transfer large files

7. Cloud storage

a. Storage on internet servers

Examples Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox, OneDrive

Advantages

a. Access anywhere with internet

b. No physical device to lose

c. automatic backup, easy sharing

Disadvantages

a. Need internet connection

b. Privacy concerns

c. Limited free space

Importance of data storage

1. save work

2. Organized

3. Backup

4. Share

5. Records