Enterprise hard drives are data storage devices for the storage and retrieval of digital information at the enterprise, or big business, level. Characteristics of enterprise hard drives include large capacity data storage and constant, reliable availability.
The term “enterprise,” in the context of computing, is a bit of a buzzword, and refers to the hard and soft computing tools of businesses. Often, the tools are crucial to standard operations, and thought of as a spectrum of computing capabilities, rather than one single function. Sometimes, companies will purchase enterprise software, and then customize it within the various areas of the operation. These are considered integrated solutions.
Hard drives, or hard disk drives (HDD) are devices for storing and retrieving digital data, and continue to hold that data even when powered off. The term “disk” comes from the rapidly rotating, magnetic-coated platters on which the data is stored. The digital information itself does not need to be retrieved in any particular order, and thus individual blocks of data are managed in a random-access manner. The capacity of hard drives is generally significant, though some of it may be taken up by file and operating systems, which are not accessible to the user. Most commonly, hard drives are found in desktop computers and laptops. Standard interface cables connect the hard drives to other systems within the computer.
In a quick, side by side comparison of a desktop hard drive and an enterprise hard drive, a few factors stand out. Desktop HDDS must be available during a typical work week, while enterprise HDDs must be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The performance of a desktop HDD should be low to moderate, while enterprise HDDs need to offer high performance. The integrity of the data itself is wanted but somewhat flexible with a desktop hard drive. Enterprise hard drives demand data integrity, as corruption could mean catastrophic data loss.
Some of the other features of enterprise hard drives include a high RPM spindle motor, a dual processor, advanced error handling and firmware algorithms, a 5.7 millisecond latency, full duplex operation, extensive customization, a 60º C maximum operating temperature and end to end internal data integrity checks.
Your hard drive needs to be able to meet your usage requirements. The right enterprise hard drive will not only meet your needs, but optimize your experience. Consider size, features and reliability when making the choice for your PC or business.
