Chapter 9. Hard Disk Storage
Definition of a Hard Disk
The hard disk drive (HDD) is one of the most important and yet mysterious parts of a computer system. HDDs are sealed units used for nonvolatile data storage. Nonvolatile, or semipermanent, storage means that the storage device retains the data even when no power is supplied to the computer. Because HDDs store crucial programming and data, the consequences of any failures are usually very serious. To maintain, service, and upgrade a PC system properly, it is important to know how hard disks function.
Hard disk drives contain rigid, disk-shaped platters, usually constructed of aluminum or glass (see Figure 9.1). Unlike floppy disks, the platters can’t bend or flex—hence the term hard disk ...
Get Upgrading and Repairing PCs now with the O’Reilly learning platform.
O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.
