Data Storage and Memory Overview

What Is Data Storage?

The term data storage refers to any type of device that has information recorded to it, although today, it generally refers to a device that will store digital information. Many different types of digital data exist, including digital video, pictures, databases, text, programs, email, and more. Primary data storage is the RAM, random access memory, which is rewritten and erased regularly. It is a method of temporary data storage before being saved to the secondary devices, and most will generally feel that this falls more firmly into the category of memory rather than storage, since it does not store permanently.

Secondary data storage includes other sorts of storage that are not the primary storage. These could be internal hard drives, flash memory, CD-ROM disks, and other secondary storage elements described later within this article. When most people use the term data storage, they are thinking of these secondary devices rather than the information on the RAM.

What Is Memory?

Computer memory can refer to many different types of memory inside of a computer. Most of the time, people use the term to refer to random access memory. This type of memory is electronic rather than mechanical, and when you turn off the computer it disappears since the information is stored in the RAM rather than the hard drive or other secondary data storage device. Most computers today will have several GBs of RAM, and this can help them to perform more tasks at the same time.

What Is the Difference Between Data Storage and Memory?

The two terms are often used interchangeably since they are both measured in bytes, and it is easy to confuse them. They are different though. Data storage allows the user to save information and files from their computer to their hard drive. The memory allows the user to access those files. Along with processors speed, hard drive speed and other factors, the speed and capacity of RAM plays a significant role in the perceived speed of computers. The RAM will keep the items, such as text, on the computer screen while one is working and has the file open. Saving the information to the hard drive allows you to turn off the computer and still retain the information. The information is not in the RAM though; it is not on the data storage device.

What Types of Data Storage and Memory Solutions Exist? How Does Each Type Work and What Are They Used For?

What Are Card Readers?

A card reader, sometimes called a media card reader, is a piece of hardware that allows users to read and write data to and from a memory card. Some of the readers have just a single slot for a single type of memory card, such as an SD card. However, others have solutions for multiple types of cards. They will typically connect to a computer via a USB. However, some computers have card readers built into them. Laptops, as well as some printers, cameras, and even televisions may have a card reader on them for utilizing different types of media. Some of the common slots found on card readers include MiniSD, MicroSD, MS/DUO, and M2 cards.

What Are Compact Flash Cards?

A compact flash card, or CF card, is a type of storage device that features a 50-pin connector. The device is quite common for storage with digital cameras, as well as other portable devices. The storage capacity on these cards can range quite a bit

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