Secondary Storage Devices
Secondary storage devices are non-volatile storage devices used to store data for the long term. Unlike primary storage (RAM), which is volatile and loses its contents when the power is turned off, secondary storage retains data even when the power is off. These devices typically have a larger capacity and are used for storing files, software, and other data that is not currently being actively used by the computer’s CPU.
Common types of secondary storage devices include:
- Hard Disk Drives (HDDs)
- Solid-State Drives (SSDs)
- USB Flash Drives:
- Optical Discs
- External Hard Drives
- Network Attached Storage (NAS)
- Cloud Storage
- ROM memory (where the BIOS is stored)
Characteristics of Secondary Memory
Purpose
Secondary storage devices are used for long-term storage of data, files, applications, and the operating system. Unlike primary storage, secondary storage retains data even when the power is turned off, making it non-volatile.
Volatility
Secondary storage is non-volatile, meaning it preserves data even when the computer is turned off. This characteristic allows for persistent data storage.
Speed
Secondary storage is generally slower than primary storage. Data access and retrieval times are relatively slower due to mechanical or electronic processes involved in reading and writing data to the storage medium.
Capacity
Secondary storage devices have a much larger capacity compared to primary storage. Hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs) can store terabytes of data, providing ample space for long-term storage needs.