non-volatile storage

Non-volatile memory, nonvolatile memory, NVM or non-volatile storage, is computer memory that can retain the stored information even when not powered. Examples of non-volatile memory include read-only memory, flash memory, most types of magnetic computer storage devices (e.g. hard disks, floppy disk drives, and magnetic tape), optical disc drives, and early computer storage methods such as paper tape and punch cards.
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Noun
1. computer storage that is not lost when the power is turned off
(synonym) nonvolatile storage
(antonym) volatile storage
(hypernym) memory, computer memory, storage, computer storage, store, memory board
(hyponym) flash memory

<storage> (NVS, persistent storage, memory) A term describing a storage device whose contents are preserved when its power is off. Storage using magnetic media (e.g. magnetic disks, magnetic tape or bubble memory) is normally non-volatile by nature whereas semiconductor memories (static RAM and especially dynamic RAM) are normally volatile but can be made into non-volatile storage by having a (rechargable) battery permanently connected.
Dynamic RAM is particularly volatile since it looses its data, even if the power is still on, unless it is refreshed. An acoustic delay line is a (very old) example of a volatile storage device.
Other examples of non-volatile storage are EEPROM, CD-ROM, paper tape and punched cards.
(2000-05-22)