Question:

What is a hard drive?

Hard Drive: The Hard Facts

The hard drive is the essence of any computer. Sorta like the TV is to a den. In tech terms, the hard drive refers to the primary component of a computer that stores all permanent data and system programs. It is called the “Hard Drive” or “Hard Disk” because it is made up of one or more hard disks sealed inside an airtight casing. Hard drives are primarily positioned inside the computer. However, you can purchase external hard drives like the Fantom Premier 80GB USB 2.0 External Hard Drives for extra data storage space.

A Barebones Hard Drive isn't Hard to Find

Today people looking for a customized computing system can purchase a Barebones Computer. This type of computer is a step up from those build-it yourself-systems mainly because it comes equipped with components like a case, power supply and a motherboard. For this system a hard drive is usually needed. Fortunately, today there are lots of inexpensive options like The 60GB DiamondMax® Plus9 hard disk drive. Just remember the hard drive you purchase should have a large amount of memory space, yet be small enough to fit in the computer case.

A Hard Drive Can be all Fun and Games

Looking for that perfect Hard Drive to zap aliens? Remember these two factors before gearing up your gaming PC. First, make sure the hard drive has a relatively high RPM (revolutions per minute) count like 7200. The lower the count makes it extremely difficult to access data in a timely fashion, which is crucial to gaming. Second, make sure you have at least 80 GB of hard drive space. This comes in handy when you need room for saving game files as well as the game itself. Hard Drives like the Seagate's Barracuda ATA V are popular because they possess these features and won't zap a hole in your wallet.

Boost Your Trip Down Memory Lane

How many system applications and data can you cram into your computer? It all depends on how much memory space you have. Hard drive space is measured in units known as bytes. The term “bytes” (coined by the folks at IBM) refers to a set of binary digits that make up a unit of memory. Early on hard drive space was measured in megabytes (1024 kilo bytes). However, due to the complexity of applications, memory space has increased to gigabytes (1,024 Megabytes). To keep your hard drive space free from being unnecessarily filled up remember to always:
- empty all deleted files in the recycle bin
- uninstall any unneeded programs.

How to Tell if your Hard Drive is Hardly Working

Sadly, like the pet hamster that meets its demise so too will your Hard Drive -- eventually. The trick is spotting the symptoms before the hard drive crashes permanently, taking all of your irreplaceable data with it. Things to look out for are if your computer keeps freezing up. If the computer says your drives are not found or formatted. Also, if it makes a weird clicking noise when booting up. As a precaution it's always a good idea to back up precious data & applications on CDs -- just in case.

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