Sequential access memory

''Italic text In computing, sequential access memory (SAM) is a class of data storage devices that read stored 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 storage.^[1][2]

While sequential access memory is read in sequence, arbitrary locations can still be accessed 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 disks, CD-ROMs and magnetic tapes. Historically, drum memory has also been used.

See also

• Sequential access
• Basic Sequential Access Method (BSAM)
• Queued Sequential Access Method (QSAM)
• Secondary storage
• Magnetic storage
• Hard disk
• Magnetic tape
• Drum memory'Italic text'
• Locality of reference
• Streaming media

References

1. difference between sequential and random access operations
2. Turing machine model of computation sequential access memory

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