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Follow UsYou need large capacities, fast access and high data-transfer rates for storing video. Let us review storage devices typically used in such environments and the reasons for choosing them.
Tapes
Tapes have always been the choice for capturing and storing video. They are compatible with digicams and camcorders as well. But, they cannot be used for storing while processing (editing) as they are sequential access devices. Digital videotapes or DV tapes are becoming popular as they’re ideal for high quality digital video recordings.
SCSI/ IDE Drives
Hard disks are used in editing systems. Traditionally, these machines used SCSI drives though IDE or Ultra ATA drives are being used these days. On professional systems, there are AV (Audio-Visual) drives that avoid thermal recalibration between read/writes and are suitable for desktop multimedia. (Thermal recalibration is a process by which older hard drives operate smoothly despite heating).
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Firewire Hard disks
Firewire hard disks find application in the post-production market. They work on Firewire technology that provides high-speed serial input/output connection when connecting digital devices like camcorders to desktop or portable computers. Most of the DV camcorders available today have Firewire ports. These disks are hot plug and daisy-chain capable, which means you can add many as external drives without shutting down or restarting.
Optical storage
These disks are broadly classified into three categories: laser discs, DVDs and CDs. Today, DVDs are preferred over laser disks. These disks are not used for primary storage due to restricted access and data transfer speed. But, they are extremely popular in the playback market. They are compact, have low cost /MB of data, are easy to handle and provide high-density recording.
Other devices like Zip drives and magneto-optical disks can be used for temporary storage or data transfer. However, they are not popular as the storage space offered by them is in the range of 100-250 MB only.
You should regularly maintain backup of data on storage devices. Use devices like DLT (Digital Linear Tapes) and AIT (Advanced Intelligent Tape) for this purpose. These devices are capable of storing 50-100 GB of data in a single cartridge and can be used repeatedly.
Ankur Saxena