Computer data storageComputer data storage or digital data storage is the retention of digital data via technology consisting of computer components and recording media. Digital data storage is a core function and fundamental component of computers. Generally, the faster and volatile storage components are referred to as "memory", while slower persistent components are referred to as "storage".Removable mediaIn computing, a removable media is a data storage media that is designed to be readily inserted and removed from a system.
Optical discAn optical disc is a flat, usually disc-shaped object that stores information in the form of physical variations on its surface that can be read with a beam of light. Optical discs can be reflective, where the light source and detector are on the same side of the disc, or transmissive, where light shines through the disc to be detected on the other side. They may contain analog or digital information, or a mixture of the two.
USB flash driveA USB flash drive (also known as a thumb drive) is a data storage device that includes flash memory with an integrated USB interface. A typical USB drive is removable, rewritable, and smaller than an optical disc, and usually weighs less than 30 g (1 oz). Since first offered for sale in late 2000, the storage capacities of USB drives have ranged from 8 megabytes to 1 terabyte (TB). As of 2024, 4 TB flash drives were the largest currently in production.
Magnetic-tape data storageMagnetic-tape data storage is a system for storing digital information on magnetic tape using digital recording. Commercial magnetic tape products used for data storage were first released in the 1950s and have continued to be developed and released to the present day. Tape was an important medium for primary data storage in early computers, typically using large open reels of 7-track, later 9-track tape.Flash driveA flash drive is a portable computer drive that uses flash memory. Flash drives are the larger memory modules consisting of a number of flash chips. A flash chip is used to read the contents of a single cell, but it can write an entire block of cells. They connect to a USB port and function as a folder. They can also be encrypted for extra security.
Non-volatile memoryNon-volatile memory (NVM) or non-volatile storage is a type of computer memory that can retain stored information even after power is removed. In contrast, volatile memory needs constant power in order to retain data.
Computer hardwareComputer hardware, commonly shortened to hardware, includes the physical parts of a computer, such as the central processing unit (CPU), random-access memory (RAM), motherboard, computer data storage, graphics card, sound card, and computer case. It includes external devices such as a monitor, mouse, keyboard, and speakers. By contrast, software is a set of written instructions that can be stored and run by hardware.
ComputerProgrammable machine that processes dataComputers and computing devices from different eras—left to right, top to bottom: Early vacuum-tube computer (ENIAC)Mainframe computer (IBM System/360)Smartphone (LYF Water 2)Desktop computer (IBM ThinkCentre S50 with monitor)Supercomputer (IBM Summit)A computer is a machine that can be programmed to automatically carry out sequences of arithmetic or logical operations (computation).
Floppy diskRemovable disk storage medium8-inch (200 mm), 5.25-inch (130 mm), and 3.5-inch (90 mm) floppy disks8-inch (200 mm), 5.25-inch (130 mm) (full height), and 3.5-inch (90 mm) drivesA 3.5-inch (90 mm) floppy disk removed from its housingA floppy disk, diskette, or floppy diskette is a type of disk storage made from a thin, flexible disk coated with a magnetic storage medium.Paper data storagePaper data storage refers to the use of paper as a data storage device. This includes writing, illustrating, and the use of data that can be interpreted by a machine or is the result of the functioning of a machine. A defining feature of paper data storage is the ability of humans to produce it with only simple tools and interpret it visually.
ComputingComputing is any goal-oriented activity that requires, benefits from, or creates computing machinery. It includes the study and experimentation of algorithmic processes, and the development of both hardware and software. Computing encompasses scientific, engineering, mathematical, technological, and social aspects.*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.