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The document outlines various types of computer storage, including Primary Storage (RAM and ROM), Secondary Storage (HDD, SSD, USB drives), Tertiary Storage (magnetic tapes), Cloud Storage (Google Drive, Dropbox), and Cache Memory (L1, L2, L3). Each type has distinct characteristics such as volatility, speed, capacity, and accessibility. The document emphasizes the importance of each storage type in a computer system for data retention, performance, and backups.

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2 views4 pages

Course Work

The document outlines various types of computer storage, including Primary Storage (RAM and ROM), Secondary Storage (HDD, SSD, USB drives), Tertiary Storage (magnetic tapes), Cloud Storage (Google Drive, Dropbox), and Cache Memory (L1, L2, L3). Each type has distinct characteristics such as volatility, speed, capacity, and accessibility. The document emphasizes the importance of each storage type in a computer system for data retention, performance, and backups.

Uploaded by

drunkliz02
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Computer system is divided into different types of hardware.

storage device is part of the computer


system which is very vital to the computer system, discuss the types, examples in each type and their
characteristics

1. Primary Storage (Main Memory)

Examples:

RAM (Random Access Memory)

ROM (Read-Only Memory)

Characteristics:

1. Volatile (RAM): Loses data when the computer is turned off.

2. Non-volatile (ROM): Stores data permanently; retains content even when power is off.

3. High speed: Much faster than secondary storage.

4. Directly accessible by CPU: CPU can read/write data instantly.

5. Limited storage capacity: Usually measured in GB (e.g., 8GB, 16GB).

6. Temporary data storage (RAM): Used for running applications and processes.

7. Firmware storage (ROM): Stores essential startup instructions (BIOS).

8. Non-removable: Usually soldered or installed inside the system.

2. Secondary Storage

Examples:

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

Solid State Drive (SSD)

Optical Discs (CD, DVD)

USB Flash Drives

Memory Cards (e.g., SD cards)

Characteristics:

1. Non-volatile: Data remains even after power is turned off.


2. Large storage capacity: Ranges from GBs to several TBs.

3. Permanent data storage: Suitable for storing files, software, and OS.

4. Slower than primary memory (except SSDs): HDDs have mechanical parts, making them slower.

5. Portable options available: USBs and memory cards can be easily carried.

6. Data can be rewritten or erased: Unlike ROM, data is editable.

7. Longer lifespan than RAM: Especially with SSDs having no moving parts.

8. Used for backups and installations: Stores large files and data for later use.

3. Tertiary Storage

Examples:

Magnetic Tapes

Tape Libraries

Optical Jukeboxes

Characteristics:

1. Used for backups and archiving: Suitable for long-term storage.

2. Very high capacity: Can store several terabytes or petabytes of data.

3. Slow data access: Requires sequential access (especially magnetic tapes).

4. Lower cost per GB: Cheaper for bulk storage.

5. Durable: Tapes can last many years if stored properly.

6. Often automated: Uses robotic systems in data centers for loading tapes.

7. Removable media: Easy to store and replace.

8. Not frequently accessed: Mostly used for cold storage or historical data.

4. Cloud Storage (Online Storage)

Examples:

Google Drive
Dropbox

OneDrive

Amazon S3

iCloud

Characteristics:

1. Internet-based storage: Requires internet connection to access.

2. Accessible anywhere: Can be used from any device, anywhere in the world.

3. Scalable storage: Can increase or decrease based on needs.

4. Backup & sync: Automatically saves and syncs data across devices.

5. Data security & encryption: Uses protocols to keep data safe (varies by provider).

6. Monthly/yearly subscription cost: Free limited space, paid for larger storage.

7. Good for collaboration: Multiple users can access and edit files.

8. Dependent on service provider: Downtime or service failure can affect access.

5. Cache Memory

Examples:

L1 Cache

L2 Cache

L3 Cache (in modern CPUs)

Characteristics:

1. Very fast memory: Much faster than RAM.

2. Located close to CPU: Often embedded in or near the processor.

3. Stores frequently used data: Speeds up access to repetitive tasks.

4. Volatile memory: Data is lost when power is off.


5. Small capacity: Ranges from KBs to a few MBs.

6. Reduces CPU idle time: Improves system performance.

7. Works for me : Majnaged by CPU, not user-controllable.

8. Multi-level design: L1 is smallest and fastest, L3 is largest and slower (but still fast).

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