Storage Devices
A storage device is a “hardware device designed to store information”. There are two types of storage devices used in computers; a ‘primary storage (internal)’ device and a “Secondary Storage (external)’ device.
Internal | External |
(Primary Storage) | (Secondary Storage) Backing Storage |
RAM | Hard Disk |
ROM | Floppy Disk |
Register | CD ROM |
Cache | Magnetic Tape |
Features of Internal & External Storage Devices
- Internal memories are faster than external memories.
- Internal memories directly communicate with the CPU. Where as External memories must communicate to the CPU through the internal memory.
- In general internal memories are temporary (except ROM) and External memories are permanent.
- Internal memories more expensive than external memories.
Primary & Secondary Storage Devices
Primary: “A storage location that holds memory for short periods or overwritten”. For computer RAM is an example of a primary (Volatile) storage device.
Secondary: “A storage medium that holds information until it is deleted or overwritten”. For example of a secondary storage device. (Nonvolatile)
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