Long Term Data Storage 2007

This document discusses the history and challenges of long-term data storage. It describes how storage media and conditions significantly impact longevity, with some analog images surviving over 17,000 years sealed in dry caves but other works deteriorating within 200 years without special efforts. Modern applications now require digital data storage for 5-25 years, with demands expected to increase. Technologies have evolved from tape to disk drives to improve capacity and meet long-term reliability needs.