Ultra-small 360 TB memory contains data for 13.8 billion years

British scientists created a tiny 360-TB memory with an almost eternal lifespan.

Experts estimate that people are generating the same amount of data as 10 million Blu-ray discs every day. To save these data as binary code requires a huge memory.

According to Science Alert, this problem can be solved by a five-dimensional digital data disk (5D) by scientists at the University of Southampton, England. Each disk can store up to 360 terabytes (TB) or 360,000 gigabytes (GB), and data disk life can reach 13.8 billion years.

To create a 5D data disc , the researchers used the femtosecond laster recording technique (1 femtosecond = 10-15 seconds). This technique allows the creation of small glass plates with ultra-short pulse laser and high pulse intensity. These pulses can record data under 3 nanoscale structural layers separated by 5 micrometers (0.005mm).

360TB 5-dimensional data disc.(Photo: Jamie Condliffe).

In addition to information about 3-dimensional position in space, the dot also carries information about its size and direction. Therefore, each nano dot carries 5 units of information (5D). Nano dot structures created with ultra-fast laser recording technology can be read by optical microscopy combined with a plate of light polarization.

The researchers say these 5D data discs will be useful for organizations and individuals working with large amounts of data, such as libraries, museums, or anywhere that needs to store data in bulk. Facebook data center.

"It is interesting to invent the technology to help store documents, knowledge and information for future generations ," said Peter Kazansky, a research team member. "This technology can protect the last evidence of our civilization. All our insights will not be forgotten."

Scientists have introduced inventions at the International Optical Technical Conference taking place in San Francisco from February 16-18. They hope to find opportunities for cooperation to improve and develop into commercial products.

The research team began backing up many documents, including the UDHR, Opticks by Newton, Great Britain's Magna Carta, and the Bible.