Storage Media
Storage media is defined as any media that can be used for
recording or storing electronic data. Storage media may simple
hold information, process information or both. Some storgae media can only accept
data one time, while other versions will allow data to be entered and recorded
a number of times.
Storage media can be loosely broken down into the following
categories:
- CD (Compact Disc) - This is an optical disc that is used to store digital
data. CD's have been in existence since 1982 and are now offered in a number
of enhanced version including CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW (rewritable), VCD (Video
Compact Disc). CD's and their related technology are extremely successful
with over 200 billion audio CD's in circulation at the end of 2007.
- DVD (Digital Video Disc) - DVD is another optical storage device that is
best suited for video and data storage. Introduced to the market in 1995,
DVD's have become a standard format for data storage. Like CD's, DVD's also
have a number of variations including DVD-ROM (cannot write data, only read),
DVD-D/DVD-R (record data only once and replay), DVD-RW, DVD-RW+, DVD-RAM (can
record, erase, and play multiple times).
- Data Tapes - Magnetic tape has been used commercially for data storage since
1984. IBM was the first company to pioneer this technology. While data tape
use to be limited to reels, today it comes in cartridges and cassettes. For
storing large amounts of data, storage tapes can be the most economical storage
method.
- Diskette - Also called a "floppy disc", diskettes were the standard
data storage method for PC's and computers between mid 1970's to the early
1990's. Original floppy disks were 8 or 5 1/4" in diameter. In the late
1980's, disk manufacturers switched to a 3 1/2" disk that is more commonly
known today. Diskettes have since been replaced by other larger storage devices
like CD's, flash drives, and DVD's; however, they are still in use all across
the world.
Business Supply carries a complete line of storage media at
deeply discounted pricing. No matter what your data storage needs may be, we
can help.
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