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The first of the data storage devices that were used was the floppy disk. Floppy Disk Floppies – the oldest of the devices have extremely limited storage space. It is ideal for holding individual files or for transporting information. While transporting floppies, remember to place them on their side (one next to the other) rather than stack one over the other. However, floppies are fast turning redundant and many of our computers lack a floppy drive. Many new data storage devices have been introduced and they have effectively eliminated the drawbacks of the floppy. The Magnetic Tape Another traditionally used backup device is the magnetic tape. Data is recorded on this flexible celluloid-like material using a tape drive. Tape drives either write the information the helical scan method (when the recording head touches the tape) or by the linear technology (where the head never touches the tape.) Varied models of magnetic tapes are used as data storage media. The 9 track (half inch tape) is bulky and has a low storage capacity. The other is the quarter-inch cartridge. However, the popularly used device is the ‘digital audio tape’ (DAT). These 4 mm tapes are the smallest of magnetic tapes and their storage capacity ranges around 1GB to 8GB. Their small size makes them easy to store; however, they are more prone to damage by heat. The latest standard device is the ‘digital linear tape’ (DLT) with a storage capacity of 40 GB. These sequential data storage devices are slow and do not permit random data access, yet they are popular for they enable more data storage at lower cost. However, they do have their inherent drawbacks. They should not be placed in temperatures exceeding 43o C. Tapes are wound in a given stipulated tension and temperature changes alter this tension. High tension stretches the tape, while lower tension results in the tape layers slipping over one another. Introduction of optical disks has alleviated the flaws of magnetic tapes. The Optical Disk Three types of optical disks are used for data storage, and information is written to and accessed from them using the laser. The CD (ROM) is the compact disk with read-only memory. CD (WROM) has data storage capacities ranging between 540 MB to 640 MB. This is an expensive option. Rewritable optical disks are used for both, as data backup devices and for archiving purposes. Though they are expensive they are fast and reliable. DVD DVDs have gradually evolved from the compact disks. They were initially used for hearing music and later emerged into file storage media. They have high data storage capacities for they are dual-layered. The optical disks are not vulnerable to magnetic interference. However, these devices are prone to lose their data if damaged by scratches. However, the memory stick has eradicated this particular defect. Flash Memory Stick Flash memory sticks are small, easy to transport and lightweight. They are reliable and easy to use. Memory sticks can be used to transfer data from all kinds of equipment on to the computer. Every computer enables usage of memory stick. If a computer does not enable the usage of a memory stick, an adaptor can be used. All these data storage devices can be made to last their full life span if they are stored properly. Protection of Data Storage Devices Certain basic guidelines have to be followed to preserve the data storage devices. They should be stored in clean environment, free from pollutants. Dust, smoke, fingerprints, cigarette smoke have their due impact on them. Certain backup devices should be stored away from other machinery or electronic equipment. When not in use, the media should be placed in its container and placed on end. They should not be left open for long. Data should not be frequently accessed from these devices. The information from these should be transferred on to another media for regular usage. Backup data storage devices prove effective only if the data on them is regularly updated and they are well maintained to prevent damage by external elements.
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James Walsh is a freelance writer and copy editor. If you are concerned about data loss and would like more information on Data Recovery see www.fields-data-recovery.co.uk
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