Storage Devices and Their Functions

A storage device, also known as storage, storage media, storage device, or file systems, may temporarily or permanently capture data such as photos, video, and audio. It is typically used to store, transfer, and extract data files. It is an essential component of a computer, and one of its manifestations is the hard drive. A computer storage device allows its owner to save and securely access data and applications stored on the computer. This page on storage devices describes the numerous storage devices found in a computer and their functions and applications, which can help pass various computer proficiency examinations.

Types of Storage

i) Primary Storage: – The primary memory is the main memory that the Central Processing Unit has access to (CPU). This is also known as volatile memory.

The memory is wiped as soon as the device is turned off or rebooted. It has a smaller size. Internal memory is the only type of primary storage. RAM, cache memory, and other types of primary storage are examples.

ii) Secondary Storage: – The Central Processing Unit is not readily accessible from this form of storage. Because these storage devices are primarily external, input and output channels are used to connect them to the computer. It has a higher storage capacity than the main memory and is non-volatile. 

Until an external factor eliminates it, this sort of storage is permanent. Internal and external memory is also included. USB drives, floppy discs, and other forms of supplemental storage are examples.

iii) Tertiary Memory: – This form of storage isn’t generally considered necessary, and it’s rarely found in personal computers. It entails installing discrete detachable mass storage data components from a computing device. Automatic functions are stored in this form of storage. It does not necessarily necessitate human intervention and can operate on its own.

List Of Storage Devices

A) Magnetic Storage Devices: – Magnetic storage systems are the most widely utilised storage technologies nowadays. These are inexpensive and simple to obtain. Through magnetised materials, a lot of data can be saved in these.

When a device gets connected to a computer, a powerful magnetic field is formed, and the machine can read and store binary information using the two magnetic polarities.

1. Floppy Disk: – A floppy disk is a magnetic-based external storage device in the form of a square. When inserted into a computer device’s disc reader, it rotates around and stores data. Recently, Floppy discs have been superseded by CDs, DVDs, and USB devices.
2. Hard Drive: – The disc controller on the motherboard is directly connected to the hard drive, which is the primary storage device. It is necessary to install any new programme or application to the device; thus, it is essential storage space. Software applications, photos, videos, and other media can be saved on a hard drive, and terabyte-sized hard drives are now widely available.
3. Zip-Disk: – Iomega introduced the Zip Disk, a removable storage device with a storage capacity of 100 MB that was eventually expanded to 250 and then 750 MB.

B) Optical Storage Devices: – Lasers and lights were utilised to detect and store information in such devices. They are cheaper than USB drives and can store more data. A few regularly utilised optical storage devices are discussed below.

1. CD-ROM (Compact Disc – Read-Only Memory) is an external device that can store and retrieve information in the form of audio or programs.
2. Blu-ray Disc (Blu-ray Disc) – Blu-ray discs were introduced in 2006 and were quickly adopted by central IT and computer firms. A single-layer disc can hold up to 25 GB of data, while a dual-layer disc can contain 50 GB.
3. DVD: Another optical storage medium is the DVD (Digital Versatile Disc). It has the capability of being read, recorded, and rewritten. Such devices can be used to make recordings subsequently connected to the system.
4. CD-R: – It’s a readable compact disc that records and stores data using photosensitive organic dye. They’re a low-cost alternative for storing software and apps.

C) Flash Memory Devices: – Both magnetic disks and storage technologies have been displaced by these storage devices. They are simple to use, transportable, and readily available. They’ve evolved into a more cost-effective and convenient method of data storage.

1. USB Drive: – This storage device, often known as a pen drive, is compact and easily portable, the storage capacities can vary from as minimum as 512 MB to a maximum of 1 TB. It has an embedded system that allows it to store and update data.
2. Memory Card: – A memory card is used to save photographs, movies, and audio and is compatible and compact. It is usually attached to smaller electrical and computerised equipment like mobile phones or digital cameras.

Cloud Storage

Cloud computing is an emerging term in the field of information technology, that refers to data centres that are accessible via the Internet and where users can preserve their databases and files. This saved information can be accessed easily via a decent internet connection and from any location.

This has become a popular method of data storage. The best use of cloud storage can be done to save data files with the safest or most straightforward computerised equipment. This function is also available on mobile phones, where we can manage a backup of our files and data.

Conclusion

Computers employ a wide range of data storage devices characterised in two ways: whether they keep data in the absence of power and how close they are to the processor (CPU). All computers require both types of storage. Memory in a personal computer does not keep data when the power is turned off, but it does allow instant access to open files when the power is turned on. On the other hand, a storage drive will enable you to save data permanently so that it is accessible every time you switch on the computer.