5MB Storage Array - IBM circa 1956

Ever really wonder just how far storage has come?  Think about this the next time you strap on your 8GB iPod Nano.  IBM's RAMAC or "Random Access Method of Accounting and Control" had a whole 5MB of disk space on it's 24" platters and hey, it only weighed a little over a ton...

"IBM introduced the 305 RAMAC computer on September 13th, 1956, which was the first computer to include a disk drive named the IBM 350 Disk File. Prior to this magnetic computer storage had consisted of core memory, tape, and drums. The magnetic disk was seen as a replacement for the magnetic drum for the same reason 78 RPM Records eventually replaced Edison cylinders- more storage with less space."

More storage with less space, go figure.  CED Magic has more info and a pic of a fine fellow operating this lil' beauty.  Or you can always Wiki it, just a little bit, for further musing...

Tags:  Storage, IBM, Stora, storag, rca, rage, AG, ray, Tor, AR
Dave Altavilla

Dave Altavilla

With nearly two decades of experience as a semiconductor sales engineer, Dave Altavilla founded HotHardware.com over 25 years ago with perspective as an industry insider and a passion for the wonders of system-level development and performance that culminate into the next generation, cutting-edge devices of tomorrow. Cultivated with the sweat-equity of time spent in the engineering backrooms and offices of Chief Architects of Wall Street bellwethers like Motorola, Cisco and EMC, Dave's insight into the design and manufacturing of leading-edge technologies, brings a laser-sharp understanding of what it takes to deliver a best-of-class product to market. Dave handles final editorial responsibilities of HotHardware's content, along with the site's creative vision and business development efforts. In addition to feature product launch articles at HotHardware for major OEM releases, Dave is also a published author in various technology-based print publications and has been a featured guest on various webcasts and Tech radio shows. In his spare time Dave likes to spend time on the ocean and coaching youth Baseball.  - Contact: davea(at)hothardware(dot)com and follow him on Twitter if you like. He also has an About.me page here.