Computer Storage Media

Media are a means of storing software. The three most common types are floppy disk, CD-ROM, and DVD. Others include CD-R and CD-RW.

Floppy disk or diskette: A removable device that stores computer data or information. It can be used to exchange information between computers or to backup data. 

CD-ROM (compact disk-read only memory): Removable computer storage media that can store images and/or up to 250,000 pages of text. A CD-ROM has the storage capacity of 700 floppy disks.

DVD (digital versatile disk):  A type of CD-ROM storage media that holds a minimum of 4.7 gigabytes of information. A DVD looks like a CD but it holds 4 to 28 times as much data.

CD-R (compact disk-recordable): A type of CD storage media that can have information written on it. However, it can only be used once for recording.

CD-RW (compact disk-rewritable ): A type of CD storage media that can have information written on it. It can be written on multiple times. This disk is more expensive than the CD-R.

Note: You need a special drive to read and record on CD-R and CD-RW disks. 

Which kinds of storage media do you use? 

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Introduction to Computers
Developed by Alyce Bunting, Jintavee Monsakul, and Donna Green

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