StorageICT GCSE

Storage and Memory

Memory or RAM (Random Access Memory) It is used for temporary storage of data

and programs that are currently in use It is fast, however the data is only stored

while the computer is on (it is volatile) Storage (or Backing Storage)

Allows you to store data permanently, (even when the computer is turned off)

Much larger, RAM is usually not large enough to store large files

What am I?

I can store up 650 or 700 megabytes of data

You can only read data not write to me You can read me using a laser

CD-ROM

What am I?

I can store up 650 or 700 megabytes of data

You can write to me You can wipe me and use me again You can write to me using a laser

CD-RW

What am I?

I can store up 650 or 700 megabytes of data

You can write to me You can only write to me once You can write to me using a laser

CD-R

What am I?

I can usually store about 4.7 gigabytes of data

You can only read data not write to me You can read me using a laser

DVD-ROM

What am I?

I can usually store about 4.7 gigabytes of data

You can write to me You can only write to me once You can write to me using a laser

DVD-/+R

What am I?

I come in a variety of sizes I use solid state memory (no moving

parts) You can write to me I can be used on any computer with

USB support You don’t have to wipe me to use me

again

USB Flash Drive

What am I?

I come in a variety of sizes You can write to me I can be used on any computer with

USB support I have moving parts inside me You don’t have to wipe me to use me

again

External Hard Drive

What am I?

I come in a variety of sizes You can write to me I live inside a computer I have moving parts inside me You don’t have to wipe me to use me

again

Hard Disk Drive

What am I?

I can usually store 1.44 megabytes of data

You can write to me I can be unreliable I am portable

Floppy Disk

What am I?

I can store large amount of data (several gigabytes)

You can write to me I am very slow I don’t have to be stored near a

computer

DST/DLT/DAT Tape