Video: A Journey Through the History of Computer Memory

Welcome! This week, we'll be taking a fascinating journey back in time and into the future of computer technology. The video below, "The Evolution of Computer Memory and Storage," will be our guide.

Have you ever wondered how computers store information? It's something we often take for granted today, with terabytes of data fitting in our pockets. But it wasn't always this easy. From rooms filled with clunky machines that could only hold a few kilobytes to the sleek solid-state drives of today, the evolution of data storage is a story of incredible innovation.

In this video, you will explore:

• The fundamental difference between volatile memory (like RAM) and non-volatile storage (like your hard drive).
• The ingenious, and sometimes strange, early storage methods like paper punch cards and magnetic core memory.
• The rise of magnetic storage, from large tape reels and floppy disks to the hard drives that powered the personal computer revolution.
• The transition to optical storage like CDs and DVDs.
• The modern era of solid-state drives (SSDs) and the science behind their speed and efficiency.

After watching, you should be able to:

• Describe several key milestones in the history of data storage.
• Explain the concept of a "memory hierarchy" and why it's important for computer performance.
• Appreciate the scale of technological advancement in storage capacity and speed over the last century.