ABSTRACT
This chapter traces the progress of memory technology and identifies the trends that determines the point at which microcomputer mass storage capacities might be at the end of the twentieth century. The built-in, solid-state random access memory is the operational part of the microcomputer. It is limited by size, cost, and volatility. The operating memory of early computers, circa 1950, used vacuum tubes, and magnetic drums were used for storage. Microcomputers use various combinations of, and sometimes all of, three mass memory systems: diskettes, rigid disks, and magnetic tape. One of the key factors in the success of diskette drives has been their very low entry-level cost. The rapid increase in the use of rigid disks is a result of their improving cost-effectiveness and the continued increase in the internal memory capacity and computing speed of the microprocessor. Tape drive systems remain the cheapest form of mass storage in widespread use.
