IBM and Sony have developed a magnetic tape storage cartridge capable of containing up to 330 terabytes of data: that’s 20 times more than what current, similarly sized tapes can hold. The extraordinary memory size works out to 201 billion bits of memory per square inch.



To achieve such storage capacity, IBM researchers had to develop new technologies, including advanced nanotech and new signal-processing algorithms. The end result was a tape that had an areal surface capable of storing 31 gigabits per cm² (201 gigabits per in²). Details of the device’s development was published in the journal IEEE Transactions on Magnetics. The end goal, of course, is commercial use. Specifically, IBM is looking to expand magnetic tape use to applications in the cloud.

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Source: [H]ardOCP – IBM and Sony Cram 330 Terabytes into Tiny Tape Cartridge