Unit 16: Vocabulary

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EPROM (erasable programmable read only memory)
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a non-volatile (or permanent) memory type that is erasable via ultra-violet light and re-programmable
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"EPROMs are popular for use in critical firmware applications, such as BIOS's, because they are both non-volatile and they can be updated when necessary."
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floppy disk drive
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a legacy storage device which can read and write data slowly from a removable magnetic medium (normally 3.5" in diameter and holding 1.44 MB of data)
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"Floppy disk drives were once included with almost all computers, but are now considered obsolete."
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hard disk drive
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a storage device using rotating magnetic platters to store and retrieve data
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"A hard disk drive can fail at any time, normally causing data corruption and loss."
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magnetic storage
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a storage technique using patterns of charged particles on a metallic surface to store data
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"Magnetic drives have been around since the 1950s and are typically used to store large amounts of data."
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non-volatile
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long-term, persistent, does not require power to retain its state
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"The laptop contained 500MB of non-volatile storage."
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optical storage
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a data storage technique using a pattern of markings on a disc that can be read by a laser; examples include CD-ROM, and DVD-ROM technology
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"Optical storage is a good choice for distributing software packages because it has a good mix of storage size, portability, and a low cost to manufacture."
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quantum memory
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an interface between light and matter that allows for the storage and retrieval of entangled photonic qubits
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"A practical quantum memory solution must be able to reliably store and recall quantum states on demand at room temperature."
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RAM (random access memory)
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a type of fast computer memory known for being volatile (or temporary)
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"My computer was performing slowly when changing programs, so my technician installed more RAM and this solved the problem."
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ROM (read-only memory)
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a fast type of memory which is known for being non-volatile (or permanent)
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"The boy gave a puzzled look when the man showed him an old Atari 800 computer ROM cartridge."
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semiconductor storage
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a type of storage using integrated circuits to store data; examples include RAM, ROM, and flash memory
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"All computers created today use at least some form of semiconductor storage."
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SSD (solid state drive)
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a storage device characterized by high speed, no-moving parts, and low energy consumption
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"Many new laptop models use solid state drives, although they are more expensive and have less capacity than traditional hard disk drives."
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SAN (storage area network)
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a cluster of storage devices working together to provide shared network storage
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"With cloud hosting, your virtual server's performance is often at the mercy of latency in the SAN."
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video memory
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a very fast type of memory intended specifically for the graphics processor
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"Modern games such as GTA V load textures which can fill gigabytes of dedicated video memory."
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volatile
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temporary, and requires power to retain its state
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"Due to it's volatility, the RAM lost all the data when the user tripped over the power cord."
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