Computer data storage
NAS Recovery - Computer data storage
Computer data storage, also known as memory or storage, refers to a set of devices that together perform the task of information retention. Storage process is usually coupled with central processing unit (CPU) of the computer. There are different types of storage devices in computing. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages, so modern computing system uses a combination of several types of storage devices.
Modern computer data storage is based on semiconductor storage devices. ‘Memory,’ in modern computer language, refers to random access memory (RAM) and other types of temporary storage methods. The term ‘storage’ usually refers to permanent storage devices such as hard disks, optical disks and other types of permanent storage methods.
Types of Storage
Primary Storage v/s Secondary Storage
The term ‘memory’ is considered as primary storage and ‘storage’ is considered as secondary storage.
Primary storage is directly accessible to the CPU, meaning CPU can continuously read instructions stored in the primary memory and execute them as required. Primary storage also stores the data that is actively operated on. Primary storage is volatile – it loses the data when power supply is cut.
Secondary storage is accessed through input/output channels. Data is transferred using the intermediate area in the primary storage. Secondary storage is non-volatile. Examples of secondary storage include hard disks optical CDs/DVDs, flash memory devices, floppy disks, magnetic tapes, punch cards, standalone RAM disks, and Zip drives.
Tertiary Storage
Tertiary storage or tertiary memory refers to mechanism which mounts and dismounts mass storage media into a storage device as and when required by the system. Examples are tape libraries and optical jukeboxes.
