Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Gateway Computer

Storage Devices

If you need additional storage space or you want to back up your files, you can add storage devices to you computer.

If your computer does not include a recordable CD or DVD drive, you can purchase an external drive that plugs into a USB or IEEE 1394 port. You can free up hard drive space by backing up files, then removing them from your hard drive. Writable CDs can hold as much as 700 MB of data. Single layer writable DVDs can hold as much as 4700 MB of data. Dual layer writable DVDs hold as much as 8500 MB of data. For more information about using recordable drives, see “Creating CDs and DVDs” on page 45.

If you need to back up your entire system, you probably need a tape backup (TBU) drive. TBU drives, like tape recorders, use magnetic tape cartridges to store data. Tape drive cartridges can store 2 GB, 20 GB, 40 GB, 130 GB, or more of data.

If you want to increase your internal storage space, try replacing your existing hard drive with a larger drive.

USB flash drive

Use a USB flash drive for storing files or transferring files to another computer.

Uninterruptible power supplies

A standby, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) protects your computer from data loss during a total power failure. A UPS uses a battery to keep your computer running temporarily during a power failure so you can save your work and shut down your computer correctly. A UPS may also provide protection from power surges.

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