Information on Computer Storage Devices

Computers have multiple types of storage devices. A storage device is generally used to save or transfer data. Depending on the type of storage device, how data are added and how the device is connected to the computer can vary.

Hard Drives

A dedicated hard drive is the primary storage device for a computer. Hard drives are available in different memory sizes (e.g, 500GB) and speeds. Internal hard drives are generally cheaper and perform better, while external hard drives are easier to setup.

Memory Cards

Memory cards are small, flash-based storage devices. In addition to being used as computer storage devices, memory cards are also used to increase the storage capacity of other electronics (e.g., cameras and cell phones). While some computers include built-in memory card readers, those that do not can use a USB card reader. USB card readers generally support the more popular types of memory cards (e.g., SD and MMC).

Flash Drives

Flash drives are small, USB-based devices that function similar to memory cards. USB flash drives are easily accessible as most computers have USB ports. Unlike memory cards, USB flash drives are protected by a shell that houses the chip. USB flash drives do not require installation.

References

• ADRC: What is a Flash Drive?
• ADRC: Hard Disks
• MemoryX: MultiMedia Card (MMC) Memory
• SDCard: SD Technology Overview