Magnetic Storage Devices: Examples and Types | Pros & Cons

How Does Magnetic Storage Work in Computer Architecture?

Magnetic storage is a technology of storing data on the magnetized medium, like as a hard disk drive, magnetic tape, or floppy disk. Storing data with using different patterns of magnetization in a magnetisable material.

In computer architecture, magnetic storage works by using a read/write head to magnetize specific areas of a disk or tape to represent data. The read/write head take position over the disk , and spins it while the head reads or writes data.

All data store in binary form, with each bit represented by a magnetic field that is either north or south. The direction of the magnetic field determines whether the bit is a 0 or a 1.

The capacity of magnetic storage devices varies depending on several factors such as recording technology, physical size, and data retention requirements. Magnetic storage devices are widely using to store computer data, audio, and video signals.

Examples of Magnetic Storage Devices

Here, we will discuss about many examples of magnetic storage devices (media). Below explained each one-

Types of Magnetic Storage Devices:

There are different types of magnetic storage medium (device); below mentioned all:

Also Read: Storage Devices: Examples, Functions, Uses, & Types of Storage Devices!!

Hard Drive

Hard drive is a storage area, where user can store all data (Files and Folders) in magnetic form with physically. It is capable to store data more than 200 GB. Hard drive contains the stack of disks, and mounted internally with solid encasement.

These disks move very higher speed (5500 to 7500 RPM), so all data can easily retrieve immediately from any area on the hard drive. In Hard Drive, All data does not discard after getting to discontinue power supply

Floppy Disk

IBM introduced the floppy disk , in 1969. Floppy disk has another name “Floppy Diskette”. It is a hardware data storage medium that is using in the personal computers.

Floppy disk is a plastic cartridge measuring 3.5 inches square and about 2 millimeters thick. Securing it with protective casing.

In the floppy disk, iron oxide was using to coat internally for storing data in magnetic form, just similar to hard disk. But, now floppy disk is completely obsolete.

Magnetic Tape

Magnetic Tape introduced by Fritz Pfleumer in 1928. Its primary objective is to use was recording voice. It is traditional technology, but now it completely replaced by CD and DVD.

Magnetic Drum

Magnetic drum was developed by Gustav Tauschek in 1932 in Austria. It was using as a primary memory in computers, in 1950 to 1960. But, now it completely replaced with secondary storage medium.

It contains the metal cylinder, and coated with magnetic iron-oxide material on which all data (files or folders) can easily save. Magnetic drum is not physically removable device, because it permanently placed in the computer.

It is capable to access data at higher rate compare to tape or disk storage devices but its storage capacity is lesser to them.

Zip Diskette

Lomega Company developed Zip diskette as advance technology to tradition floppy disk, and using as a secondary storage device. Zip drive was used to operate the Zip disk.

Zip disks had 100 and 250 MB storage space that was using to save, share and backup huge amount of data. But,  now Zip disk is not getting popular in the market.

SuperDisk

Imation organization introduced the SuperDisk by with supporting enlarge high density. SuperDisk drive was getting more popularity along with OEM computers, like as  Compaq and Packard Bell PCs.

SuperDisk has capable of 120 MB storage over single disk similar size of oldest 1.44 MB floppy diskette, and further few time it was capable of storage 240 MB.

MRAM

MRAM stands for “Magnetoresestive Random Access Memory”. In this technology, magnetic states are using for storing data beyond of electrical charges. 

Magnetic Bubble Memory

Magnetic bubble memory is a non-volatile computer memory. It is using a thin film of magnetic material to keep holding the small magnetized called the bubbles, to represent data bits.

An alternating electric field causes the bubbles to shift down the register, and a constant magnetic field must also supplied by an external magnet.

Magnetic bubble memories are non-volatile that mean the magnetic bubbles do not disappear while power turning off. Bubble memories are rapidly being introduced, and sizes up to 10-20 million bits would make them more cost-effective compared to magnetic disks.

Magnetic bubble memory has excellent potential in field data recording applications. The power usage is less in bubble memory, and the functional packing density is high. It is more durable than disc memory since it has no moving parts.

The most vital feature of magnetic bubble memory is its ruggedness, which made the military employ the technology even after it failed in the market.

Magneto-Optical Disks

These are a type of non-volatile computer memory that uses a thin film of magnetic material to hold small magnetized areas, known as bubbles, to represent data.

Magneto-optical drives use a “far field” magnetic field and a laser to change the polarization of a magnetic media. The use of a laser for polarization change allows for bit and track densities much higher than on conventional “flying” magnetic heads.

Magneto-optical disks are hybrid storage medium, and in reading, spots with different directions of magnetization give different polarization in the reflected light of a low-power laser beam. 

Magnetic Storage Capacity Variation in Devices

Magnetic storage devices are available in several shapes, sizes, and capacities that are catering the different storage requirements in the computing area. The storage capacity of magnetic storage devices varies depending on several factors such as recording technology, physical size, and data retention requirements. For instance, the capacity of magnetic storage devices ranges from kilobytes (KB) in floppy disks up to terabytes (TB) in HDDs and magnetic tapes.

According to Los Alamos National Laboratory, the estimated total storage capacity in its open storage system is 243 terabytes, and in its secure system, it is 2.31 petabytes as of September 28, 2023. The storage capacity of commercial magnetic energy storage devices is between 10 and 30 kWh, which is relatively low for utility storage but useful for very fast grid support functions.

The capacity of magnetic storage devices has been increasing over the years due to the introduction of new technologies, and the areal recording densities of magnetic data storage devices have continued to increase by two digits annually.

Applications of Magnetic Storage Devices 

Here are some commonly applications of magnetic devices, including:

• Magnetic tape is using to hold data in batch processing applications such as clearing bank cheques and producing payslips.

• Magnetic storage devices are widely getting to use for storing computer data, audio, and video signals.

• These magnetic storages used as primary and secondary storage in computing.

• Magnetic recording commonly uses in audio and video production.

• Magnetic storage devices are widely using in many applications, including magnetic suspension in inertial storage systems, sensing devices, and communications.

• These kinds of magnetic storage devices widely use for backups of computer networks in schools and businesses.

• Magnetic storage devices are also using in main computer storage mechanisms such as hard drives, magneto-optical rewritable discs, and floppy drives.

• Magnetic storage technologies have taken us from capacities of kilobytes to numerous terabytes.

• MRAM (magneto resistive random access memory) is potentially the future computer RAM.

• Laser switched magnetic storage hard drives have promised to improve performance by 1000 times in the future.

Magnetic Storage Devices Advantages and Disadvantages

There are various advantages and disadvantages of magnetic storage devices; as well as pros and cons of magnetic storage devices. Below shown each one; you can check them:

Also Read: What is Flash Memory: Examples and Types | Flash Memory Devices

Advantages of Magnetic Storage Devices

High Storage Capacity: Magnetic storage devices, such as hard disk drives (HDDs) and magnetic tapes, can provide large storage capacities.

Cost-Effective: Magnetic storage is often more cost-effective in terms of storage capacity per dollar compared to some other storage technologies, such as solid-state drives. This makes magnetic storage a preferred choice for large-scale data storage where cost considerations are crucial.

Sequential Access Speed: Magnetic tapes are most perfect for sequential access operations. This makes them suitable for applications like backup and archival storage.

Durability: Magnetic storage devices are generally durable and can withstand a reasonable amount of physical stress. Unlike some other storage technologies, magnetic storage is less susceptible to damage from physical shocks.

Longevity: Magnetic storage has a long history of reliability and using in various forms for many years. This track record suggests a level of maturity and stability in the technology.

Compatibility: Magnetic storage devices are widely compatible with different systems and platforms. This makes them versatile for use in various computing environments.

Data Retention: Magnetic storage media can retain data for extended periods without power.

Rewritable: Many magnetic storage devices, like hard disk drives, are rewritable. This allows for the easy modification and updating of stored data, making them suitable for applications that require frequent data changes.

Well-Established Technology: Magnetic storage technology is well-established, and there is a wealth of knowledge and expertise in designing, manufacturing, and using these devices. This can contribute to reliability and stability.

Disadvantages of Magnetic Storage Devices

Mechanical Components: Hard disk drives (HDDs), a common type of magnetic storage, have mechanical components like spinning disks and read/write heads.

Vulnerability to Physical Shock: Magnetic storage devices, especially HDDs, are sensitive to physical shocks and vibrations. Dropping a device or subjecting it to sudden impacts can result in damage to the delicate internal components, potentially causing data loss.

Slower Access Speeds: Compared to solid-state drives (SSDs), magnetic storage devices generally have slower access speeds, especially in terms of random access. This means retrieving data from specific locations on the storage medium might take more time compared to SSDs, which have no moving parts.

Limited Long-Term Reliability: Over time, the mechanical components in magnetic storage devices can wear out, leading to a decline in performance and reliability. This is particularly true for HDDs, where the spinning disks and moving parts can experience wear and tear.

Size and Weight: Magnetic storage devices, especially HDDs, tend to be bulkier and heavier than their SSD counterparts.

Power Consumption: Magnetic storage devices generally consume more power than SSDs. The mechanical components in HDDs require energy to spin the disks and move the read/write heads, contributing to higher power consumption compared to the solid-state technology of SSDs.

Magnetic Interference: Magnetic storage devices are susceptible to magnetic fields. Exposure to strong magnetic fields can potentially corrupt or erase data stored on these devices, making them less suitable for environments where such interference is common.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What are magnetic storage devices in computer?

Magnetic storage devices always use the magnetization process to write, rewrite, and get access data; they is getting to cover with a magnetic coating and keeps store data into tracks format, spots and sectors.

What is the definition of magnetic storage devices and its types?

Magnetic storage devices keep store the data with using magnetized medium, and those types of data saved in that medium in the binary form like as 0 and 1. Its types are magnetic tape, floppy disks and hard-disk drives.

What are the 10 examples of magnetic storage devices?

• Hard Drive
• Floppy Disk
• Magnetic Tape
• Magnetic Drum
• Zip Diskette
• SuperDisk
• MRAM
• Audio Reel-to-Reel
• Cassettes Tapes

What are the different types of magnetic storage devices?

Through this article, already we have been explained about different kinds of magnetic storage devices in detail; you can check them.

Summing Up

Now, i can hope that through this article; you have been fully learnt about what are magnetic storage devices and its examples and types; involving with advantages and disadvantages of magnetic storage devices with ease. If this article is helpful for you, then please share it along with your friends, family members or relatives over social media platforms like as Facebook, Instagram, Linked In, Twitter, and more.

Also Read: Output Devices of Computer: List, Types, Examples, Functions, & Uses!!

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Happy Learning!!