Computer Architecture

Question 1

What is magnetic storage media?

Answer 1

Data that is written on a magnetic material that can be read or written by a magnetic “head”.

Question 2

What is an optical storage media?

Answer 2

Data is stored as very small pits or indentations on the device that can be read or written by laser

Question 3

What is solid state storage media?

Answer 3

Data is stormed in electronic circuits that have no moving parts

Question 4

What are the advantages of magnetic storage media?

Answer 4

• Large storage capacity (Up to TB)
• Relatively cheaper than optical and solid-state storage media

Question 5

What are the disadvantages of magnetic storage media?

Answer 5

• Easily damaged and eventually breaks over time
• Vulnerable to damages due to shocks and drops
• Much slower than solid-state storage media

Question 6

What are the advantages of optical storage media?

Answer 6

Large storage capacity of data (Up to GB)

Question 7

What are the disadvantages of optical storage media?

Answer 7

• Data can only be written once for non-rewritable formats
• Lower maximum storage capacity than magnetic storage media
• Vulnerable to scratches and fingerprints

Question 8

What are the advantages of solid state storage media?

Answer 8

• Much faster than magnetic or optical storage media
• Not as vulnerable to damages due to drops, mechanical shocks, scratches or fingerprints
• Smaller in physical size and lighter in weight than magnetic or optical storage media
• Uses very little power and produces no noise

Question 9

What are the disadvantages of solid state storage media?

Answer 9

Much more expensive than magnetic or optical storage