You have surely heard about this element of computers. However, do you know what it is about? In this article you will learn what the HDD, its function and importance.
One of the most important components of a computer.
Hard drive function
La function of the HDD It is one of the most relevant aspects in terms of the computing world. This is mainly due to the meaning that this element has within the structure of every computer.
What is a hard drive?
Generally speaking, the hard disk drive is a digital storage device. Basically, it is used to store data in a magnetic way, which we will have access to later.
For this, the hard disk drive is based on the use of the non-flexible disks that make it up, which in turn contain read and write heads. In this regard, it is important to note that said discs are covered by a ferromagnetic material.
Additionally, it is important to note that the storage capacity of a hard disk is measured in gigabytes, while its access speed refers to milliseconds and its read / write speed to revolutions per minute. On the other hand, the data is recorded in cells that make up tracks, using electrical signals from the heads.
What is the function of the hard drive?
Without a doubt, the main function a HDD is to store data permanently. In this regard, it is important to note that this data can be: applications, user data and even the computer's own operating system.
On the other hand, the hard disk is often used as a means to retrieve information. In other words, if the storage unit is damaged, it is common for us to move the data to another disk so as not to lose it.
Additionally, another function of the HDD is to serve as a storage site to back up information through backups. Similarly, there are those who use it as a RAID disk, that is, to create data redundancy, storing it on several disks at the same time.
Also, another important function of the HDD is to act as a bridge between the software and hardware of a computer. This is because it is impossible for the user to transmit the information they want directly to the computer.
Finally, we must note that the performance of the hard disk depends, to a great extent, on the controller card, the cache memory of said card and the bus where it is connected. In addition, when choosing a unit of this type, we must consider a series of aspects, including: compatibility with the system, power, heat generation, whether it is internal or external, among others.
If you want to know which are the best hard drives on the market according to their capacity, I invite you to read our article called: Hard drive capacity.
Specific functions, depending on the type of hard disk
Within the varieties of hard disk that exist, we can speak, at least, of five different types of them, each one with specific functions. Next, we will mention the main ones.
Internal: This type of disk is physically located inside the motherboard of a computer. It is responsible for storing the computer's operating system, programs and applications, as well as any type of digitized data that we provide.
External: In general, this hard drive is considered portable, since it is used to transfer information from one computer to another externally. Thus, in order to be used, this device is connected to the USB ports of computers.
Multimedia: A hard disk of this type is one that is used to store and reproduce multimedia content on televisions; Through the connection with a USB or HDMI port as the case may be. To do this, it is necessary that the corresponding operating system is installed within one of its partitions.
SSD: An SSD, also known as a solid state drive, has the same function a HDD internal or HDD; However, unlike this one, it has integrated circuits to save the information. In other words, it has no moving parts, which makes it a faster access device, and can even be considered instantaneous.
WiFi: As its name suggests, a hard drive of this type works wirelessly, being used to transfer and share data through a WiFi connection. In general terms, it is an external device that acts as a personal cloud, through which we can store and access our information from several devices at the same time.
In the following video you can see how a hard drive works, according to its parts. Do not stop seeing it.
Importance
As we have already mentioned, one of the main functions of the hard disk is the permanent storage of data. In such a way that its importance lies exactly in its ability to maintain information even when the computer is disconnected.
In the same way, we can affirm that the possibility of accessing our information as many times as necessary, as long as the equipment is turned on, is one of the fundamental parts of the operation of any computer equipment. Additionally, although the process of reading and writing the hard disk is slower than that of the main memory of a computer, its storage capacity is considerably higher.
Finally, because the computer's operating system is stored inside the hard disk, we can say that without it, the computer is simply unable to even turn on. In other words, the hard drive is a piece of hardware without which no computer can function.