Unit 16: Vocabulary

Please study the 14 vocabulary terms below. Then press the Mark Complete button to continue.
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EPROM (erasable programmable read only memory)
A non-volatile (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
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
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
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
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
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
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)
A type of computer memory known for being volatile (temporary) and fast.
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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)
A type of memory which is known for being non-volatile (permanent) and fast.
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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
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)
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)
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
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
Temporary, 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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