Storage : Flash Memory

Flash Memory devices store data electronically in a type of memory that can have data written to it and (unlike RAM) can retain the data when the power to the memory is turned off. Commonly flash memory devices store data in Flash Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (FEPROM).

Several different types of flash memory device are available. These include Compact Flash, SmartMedia, Secure Digital and USB Pen Drives.

Flash memory devices are very compact, most being a similar size to a postage stamp or coin. For this reason they are often used as backing storage in small devices such as digital cameras and PDAs. Typical storage capacities are from 32Mb up to about 2Gb. The cost per Mb of flash memory storage is high compared to other backing storage devices.

GCSE ICT Companion 04 - (C) P Meakin 2004