Know and understand characteristics of backing storage

1. Types and Components of Computer Systems

Objective: Know and understand characteristics of backing storage

Backing storage (also called secondary storage) is where a computer keeps data when it’s turned off. Think of it as a big, safe library where all your books (files) are stored for later use. 📚

Types of Backing Storage

• Magnetic (Hard Disk Drives – HDDs) – Uses spinning disks and a read/write head. Like a library with metal shelves that spin.
• Optical (CD/DVD/Blu‑ray) – Uses lasers to read/write data. Think of a DVD player that reads a disc like a book with pages of light.
• Flash (SSD, USB sticks, SD cards) – Solid‑state memory with no moving parts. Imagine a tiny locker that instantly opens when you need a book.
• Cloud Storage – Data stored on remote servers accessed via the internet. Like a virtual library that you can visit from anywhere.

Key Characteristics of Backing Storage

Why Backing Storage Matters

1. Non‑volatile – Keeps data even when the power is off. Like a diary that stays safe when you close the book.
2. Capacity – Stores large amounts of data, from photos to entire operating systems.
3. Speed vs. Cost Trade‑off – Faster storage (SSD) costs more per GB than slower storage (HDD). Choose based on need.
4. Durability – Mechanical drives can break if dropped; flash drives are more robust.
5. Backup & Recovery – Regular backups on external drives or cloud keep data safe if the main drive fails.

Quick Quiz

1️⃣ Which type of backing storage uses no moving parts?
2️⃣ Why is SSD faster than HDD?
3️⃣ What does “non‑volatile” mean in the context of storage?

Answers: 1️⃣ Flash (SSD, USB, SD). 2️⃣ Because it reads/writes electronically, not mechanically. 3️⃣ It keeps data even when power is off. ??