Optical storage is any
storage method in which data is written and read with a
laser for
archival or
backup purposes. Typically, data is written to
optical media, such as
CD
s and DVDs. For several years, proponents have spoken of optical storage as a near-future replacement for both
hard drives in personal computers and
tape backup in mass storage.
Optical media is more durable than tape and less vulnerable to environmental conditions. On the other hand, it tends to be slower than typical hard drive speeds, and to offer lower storage capacities. According to OSTA (Optical Storage Technology Association), current optical speeds are approaching those of hard drives. A number of new optical formats, such as Blu-ray and UDO (ultra density optical), use a blue laser to dramatically increase capacities.
This was last updated in May 2004
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