Pronunciation: [fˈɪkst dˈɪsk] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "fixed disk" is based on the sound of each letter. "Fixed" is pronounced as /fɪkst/ while "disk" is pronounced as /dɪsk/. The "x" in "fixed" represents the sound of "ks" while the "k" and "s" are silent. Similarly, the "k" in "disk" is silent and the "s" represents the /z/ sound. The word "fixed disk" refers to a non-removable storage device commonly used in computers to store and retrieve data.
A fixed disk, also commonly referred to as a hard disk drive (HDD), is a type of storage device used in computers and electronic systems to store and retrieve digital data on a long-term basis. It is a non-volatile, magnetic storage medium that allows for large amounts of data to be stored in a permanent manner.
The term "fixed" in fixed disk refers to the fact that the disk is physically fixed or permanently attached within a computer or electronic device, as opposed to being easily removable or portable like a floppy disk or flash drive. It is typically installed inside the computer's system unit or housed within an external enclosure.
The fixed disk consists of one or more circular disks called platters, which are made of a rigid material coated with a magnetic layer. The platters spin rapidly, typically at speeds measuring thousands of revolutions per minute (RPM). As the platters spin, an arm equipped with read/write heads moves across the surface of the platters, allowing data to be read from or written to specific locations.
Fixed disks have a high storage capacity, ranging from several gigabytes (GB) to terabytes (TB), making them suitable for storing operating systems, software applications, files, and documents. They provide fast access times and are considered a primary storage medium in most computer systems.
In summary, a fixed disk is a non-removable storage device that uses magnetic technology to store and retrieve digital data within a computer or electronic system. It is characterized by its high storage capacity, fast access times, and its permanent installation within a computer or enclosed system.
The etymology of the term "fixed disk" stems from the combination of the words "fixed" and "disk" in the context of computer technology.
- "Fixed" originates from the Old English word "fīxian", which means "to make firm, establish, set up, settle". Over time, it developed into the modern English term "fixed", referring to something that is secured or not movable.
- "Disk" comes from the Latin word "discus", meaning "a round, flat object" or "a disc". This Latin term was then borrowed into English and evolved into "disk", which refers to a flat, circular object or storage medium in the context of computers and technology.
When these two words are combined, the term "fixed disk" refers to a non-removable disk drive, typically found in early computer systems.
