Other Types of Storage Media

There are many other storage media available for storing data, instruction, and information. A PC Card is a thin, credit card-sized removable flash memory device that fits into a PC Card expansion slot on a personal computer (Figure 5-76). 

An ExpressCard module is a removable device, smaller than a PC Card, that fits in an ExpressCard slot. Different types and sizes of PC Cards and ExpressCard modules are used to add storage, additional memory, communications, multimedia capabilities, and security capabilities to a computer. PC Cards and ExpressCard modules are commonly used in notebook computers. Some digital cameras also use PC Cards called picture cards.

A smart card, which is similar in size to a credit card, stores data on a thin microprocessor embedded in the card.

A smart card contains a processor and has input, process, output, and storage capabilities. When the smart card is inserted into a specialized card reader, the information on the smart card is read and, if necessary, updated. One popular use of smart cards is to store a prepaid dollar amount, as in prepaid telephone calling card.

Many hotels issue smart cards instead of keys to hotel guests. With the smart card, guests gain access to their rooms and other hotel services. 

 

Other uses of smart cards include storing patient records, vaccination data, other health-care information; tracking information such as customer purchases or employee attendance; storing a prepaid amount, such as electronic money; authenticating users such as for Internet purchases or building access. 

Some organizations use smart cards as an ID card.