There
are numerous ways to store data on your computer. Most of this
data will be stored on your hard drive, but data can also be
stored on floppy disks, CDs, DVDs, and memory sticks. These
forms of data storage are known as removable media. Removable
media is the ideal way to take your computer information with
you when you travel or to permanently store old data. In the
past, floppy disks were the main way to store data. Now CDs
or DVDs are the most popular way to store your data due to the
large amounts of data that can be stored.
CDs
and DVDs are called optical media because a laser is used to
read and write the information. If you are planning to purchase
an optical drive, you main consideration is to decide if you
want to burn your own CDs and DVDs. If you do not intend to
record, you can get by with a standard drive. If you want to
record, you will need a DVD or CD recorder. DVD recorders will
also play CDs, but CDs will not play DVDs.
The
speed of DVDs and CDs is shown by a number followed by an x,
such as 4x up to 50x. These numbers the speed of data transfer.
A DVD drive has a much faster transfer rate than a CD drive.
CD recorders are very inexpensive, with the most inexpensive
models costing around $20. DVD players/recorders are more expensive,
starting around $50. Depending on the type of data you want
to store, and the volume of data you anticipate, an optical
drive storage device is the most practical way to store your
information, music, and photos.
|
