Magnetic storage is a storage medium commonly used for large volumes of data (e.g., video, image, or remote sensing data). Magnetic tape drives use magnetic tape to store the data. Large amounts of data are stored through tape drives because the capacity on the drives is huge – three billion (or three gigabits) of data per square inch can fit on a single magnetic disk.
Magnetic media is made up of a thin layer that can record a magnetic signal supported by a thicker film backing. The top coat consists of a magnetic pigment. The binder holds the magnetic particles together. The magnetic layer (top coat) records and stores the magnetic signals that are written to it. The backing film supports the magnetic top coat and reduces tape friction and distortion.
History of Magnetic Storage Technologies
2001
IBM researchers demonstrated a new world record in magnetic data storage density, reaching five times the density of the most advanced disk drive available today.
2000
IBM announced the spin valve, the world’s most sensitive magnetic recording head. It is anticipated that the valve will be used to eventually exceed 10 gigabits per square inch densities.
1991
The first hard disk drive with MR recording heads was introduced.
1989
IBM’s Advanced Magnetic Recording Laboratory reported it surpassed 1-gigabit-per-square-inch density.
1984
The thin-film magnetoresistive (MR) recording head was first used in a storage device, an IBM tape drive.
1978
Sony introduced the first digital recorders.
1971
The first floppy disk drive was introduced.
1966
The first disk drive with a wound-coil ferrite recording head was introduced.
1963
The compact audio cassette was introduced, the most successful audio magnetic recording product yet.
1957
The first magnetic hard drive for data storage became part of a new machine, the RAMAC (Randon access Method of Accounting and Control). Before the RAMAC, there was no way to increase internal disk memory and most computers were still using either magnetic tape or a punch card system.
1956
IBM introduced the first magnetic hard drive for data storage
1953
IBM made its first tape drive, the 726.
1935
AEG announced an audio recording device known as the Magnetophon, later used for broadcasting.
1898
Danish inventor and engineer Valdemar Poulsen invented the first magnetic recording device, the first telephone answering machine.
