9. Flash Memory

Flash memory storage devices are typically small, lightweight, removable and rewritable. They consist of a small printed circuit board which is encased in plastic or metal casing. They usually have a removable cap which covers and protects the part of the stick which is inserted into a USB port.

Memory sticks are available from 1 Gb upwards.

Advantages

• They are more compact and portable than CDs or DVD.
• They hold more data than a CD, many gigabytes
• They are reliable as they have no moving parts (unlike a hard disk)
• They are easily branded on their cover to reflect the organisation
• They are not affected by magnetic fields (unlike magnetic tape)

Disadvantages

• More expensive than CD or DVD as a medium
• They can be easily lost
• The metal part which is inserted into the USB port can be snapped off or damaged if they are handled roughly