Sequential access memory: Difference between revisions

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{{Unreferenced|date=November 2007}}

In computing, '''[[sequential access]] [[computer memory|memory]]''' ('''SAM''') is a class of [[data storage device]]s that read theirstored data in a sequence. This is in contrast to [[random access memory]] (RAM) where data can be accessed in any order. Sequential access devices are usually a form of [[magnetic memory]].

While sequential access memory is read in sequence, accesses can still be made to arbitrary locations by "seeking" to the requested ___location. This operation, however, is often relatively inefficient (see [[seek time]], [[rotational latency]]).

Magnetic sequential access memory is typically used for [[secondary storage]] in general-purpose computers due to their higher density at lower cost compared to RAM, as well as resistance to wear and [[non-volatility]]. Examples of SAM devices still in use include [[hard disk]]s, [[CD-ROM]]s and [[magnetic tape]]s. Historically, [[drum memory]] has also been used.

==See also==