Input Output Storage Flashcards
What do input devices do?
Supply new information to a computer system.
What do output devices do?
Deliver information to the user through one of the users senses.
What does a sensor do?
Detects environmental conditions such as temp and humidity to control a robot or device
What does an actuator do?
Controls physical movement
Examples of input devices
Keyboard, webcam, barcode reader
Examples of output devices
Printer, monitor, actuator, speaker
3 types of storage
1) Optical
2) Solid state
3) Magnetic
How do optical storage devices work?
Uses lasers to store / read data from a disc
How do magnetic storage devices work?
Uses special discs which are held inside a protective case - data is saved using a small magnetic charge
How do solid state devices work?
Memory sticks use the USB interface to connect to the computer - data is retained even after power has been disconnected
Advantages and Disadvantages of Magnetic Storage (Hard Drive)
Advantages:
- Low cost
- High capacity
- Durable
Disadvantages:
- Can be easily damaged, will slow down and eventually break over time
Advantages and Disadvantages of Optical Storage (CDs, DVDs, Blu-Ray)
Advantages:
- Large capacity
- Highly portable
- Durable
Disadvantages:
- Vulnerable to scratches and sunlight
- Limited number of times they can be written to
- More expensive
Advantages and Disadvantages of Solid State Storage (Flash Memory Drive (USB Stick))
Advantages:
- High speed (access time)
- Highly portable
- High capacity
- Highly durable as they have no moving parts
Disadvantages:
- Have a limited number of times they can be written to
- Expensive
What is virtual storage?
e.g. Cloud Storage.
The concept of storing and retrieving data over the Internet in the cloud instead of a local storage device
Advantages of Virtual Storage
- Data can be accessed at any time from any device with internet access
- Data can be easily shared
- Easy to collaborate
- Storage considered to be limitless
