Computer Science › Section B · Data storage › Topic B.3
Mass storage
Main memory is fast but forgets everything when the power goes off. Mass storage keeps your files, apps and photos for years, and the way each technology stores bits explains why some devices feel instant and others make you wait.
In this topic
- Why main memory is not enough
- The storage hierarchy
- Inside a hard disk drive
- Zoned-bit recording
- Measuring disk performance
- Worked example: access time
- Tape and optical discs
- Flash memory and SSDs
- Worked example: the missing gigabytes
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Key takeaways
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