Storage disk surface. Light micrograph of the surface of a magneto-optical disk (MO disk). The disk stores data as bits (dots). Eight bits forms a byt

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Storage disk surface. Light micrograph of the surface of a magneto-optical disk (MO disk). The disk stores data as bits (dots). Eight bits forms a byte. The data is written on to the disc by a laser and a magnet. The laser heats a bit to between 180-200 degrees Celsius, the point at which molecules can be realigned when subjected to a magnetic field, and then the magnet changes the bit's polarity. The disk is read by detecting light reflected off the bit from a lower-powered laser. MO disks have a 3-year shelf life and can be rewritten up to a million times. Magnification x330 when printed at 10 centimetres wide.

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Size: 3077px × 2060px
Photo credit: © EYE OF SCIENCE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

Keywords: bits, computer, computing, data, disk, high-tech, laser, light, magnet, magneto-optical, micrograph, microscope, mo, rewritable, storage, store, storing, surface, technological, technology