Description
Product Overview The Seagate ST3160812AS SATA-II Hard Drive
The ST3160812AS is a hard disk drive (HDD) made by Seagate. It belongs to the Barracuda family and has a storage capacity of 160 gigabytes (GB). In this article, we will discuss the features of this HDD, including its rotational speed, interface, buffer size, and form factor. In the ever-evolving landscape of computer hardware, the choice of a reliable and efficient hard disk drive (HDD) is crucial for optimal system performance. Seagate, a renowned name in the storage industry, offers a range of products designed to meet various needs. Among its offerings, the Seagate ST3160812AS Barracuda stands out as a 160GB SATA-II HDD with a 7200 RPM speed and an 8MB buffer. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the intricacies of this storage solution, exploring its key features, performance, and suitability for different use cases.
Interface Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA)-II
The ST3160812AS utilizes the Serial ATA (SATA) interface, specifically the SATA-II standard. SATA offers advantages over its predecessor, Parallel ATA (PATA), including higher data transfer rates and thinner cables, improving airflow within the system. SATA-II further enhances these capabilities, ensuring efficient and reliable data transfer between the HDD and the motherboard.
Storage capacity 160 Gigabytes (GB)
The ST3160812AS boasts a storage capacity of 160GB, positioning itself as a mid-range option in Seagate’s Barracuda series. This capacity is ample for storing a significant amount of data, including operating systems, applications, and user files. Whether you’re a casual user or a professional requiring moderate storage space, this HDD offers a balanced solution.
Rotational Speed 7200 Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)
One of the critical performance indicators for an HDD is its rotational speed, measured in RPM. The Seagate Barracuda operates at 7200 RPM, providing a good balance between speed and power consumption. This rotational speed contributes to faster data access times, making it suitable for tasks that demand quick read and write operations.
Buffer Size 8 Megabytes (MB)
An often overlooked but crucial aspect of HDD performance is the size of its buffer or cache. The ST3160812AS comes equipped with an 8MB buffer, serving as temporary storage for frequently accessed data. A larger buffer can contribute to smoother data transfer rates and improved overall system responsiveness.
Form Factor Low Profile
The term “low profile” refers to the physical size of the HDD. A low-profile design is beneficial for systems with space constraints, such as small form factor desktops or compact server configurations. The ST3160812AS’s low-profile form factor makes it versatile, fitting into a variety of computing environments without sacrificing performance.
Speed and Responsiveness
The 7200 RPM rotational speed of the Barracuda ST3160812AS is a key factor in determining its speed and responsiveness. This speed ensures quick access to data, reducing latency and improving overall system performance. Whether you’re booting up your operating system, loading applications, or accessing large files, the HDD’s speed plays a significant role in these day-to-day computing tasks.
Data Transfer Rates
The SATA-II interface of the ST3160812AS contributes to efficient data transfer rates between the HDD and the motherboard. With a theoretical maximum transfer rate of 3.0 gigabits per second (Gbps), SATA-II provides a substantial improvement over previous standards. Real-world performance tests demonstrate how well the Barracuda handles tasks such as file transfers, video editing, and gaming, showcasing its suitability for various applications.
Multi-Tasking Capabilities
In a multitasking environment, where multiple applications are running simultaneously, the HDD’s ability to handle concurrent read and write operations becomes crucial. The ST3160812AS, with its 8MB buffer, aids in managing these tasks efficiently. The buffer serves as a temporary cache for frequently accessed data, reducing the need to repeatedly fetch information from the disk and enhancing multitasking capabilities.
Reliability and Durability
Seagate has a reputation for producing reliable storage solutions, and the Barracuda series is no exception. The ST3160812AS is built to withstand the rigors of regular use, providing users with a durable storage option. The reliability of this HDD is further emphasized by Seagate’s commitment to quality control and extensive testing procedures.
Home and Office Computing
For home and office users, the Seagate Barracuda ST3160812AS offers a balanced solution. The 160GB storage capacity is sufficient for storing the operating system, essential applications, and personal files. The 7200 RPM speed ensures a responsive computing experience, and the low-profile form factor makes it suitable for space-constrained environments.
Media Editing
For professionals involved in media editing, the Barracuda ST3160812AS offers a balance between storage capacity and speed. The 160GB capacity provides ample space for storing multimedia files, while the 7200 RPM speed and 8MB buffer contribute to efficient data access during editing processes.
Small Form Factor Systems
The low-profile design of the ST3160812AS makes it well-suited for small form factor systems. Whether it’s a compact desktop, home theater PC (HTPC), or a server with limited space, this HDD can be seamlessly integrated without compromising performance.
Main Information about the Seagate ST3160812AS
- Brand Name: Seagate
- Model Number or SKU# ST3160812AS
- Product Type: 160GB-7.2K RPM
- Product Name: Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
Performance of about 160GB
- Drive Capacity: 160GB
- Transfer Rate: A swift 300 MBPS externally, ensuring efficient data transfer.
- Seek Time: Impressively quick at 11 milliseconds on average, enhancing overall responsiveness.
- Average Latency: A minimal 4.16 milliseconds, contributing to smooth data access.
- Spindle Speed: Operating at 7200 RPM (Rotations Per Minute), indicating a high-performance drive.
- Expansion/Connectivity: Designed for SATA-II interfaces, ensuring compatibility with modern systems.
Expansion / Connectivity for SATA-II.
- Interfaces: Equipped with 1 x Serial ATA-300 port (7-pin Serial ATA), facilitating seamless connections.
- Compatible Bays: Internally fits into a 3.5-inch bay, making it suitable for various systems.
In summary, the Seagate ST3160812AS Barracuda Hard Disk Drive proves to be a versatile storage solution with its combination of features. From its 160GB storage capacity to the 7200 RPM speed, SATA-II interface, 8MB buffer, and low-profile form factor, this HDD is designed to cater to a variety of computing needs. Whether you’re a casual user in need of reliable storage for personal files or a professional seeking a balance between capacity and speed for specialized tasks, the Barracuda ST3160812AS offers a compelling option. Its performance in areas such as speed, data transfer rates, multitasking capabilities, and reliability positions it as a strong contender in the competitive HDD market. As technology continues to advance, Seagate’s commitment to innovation and quality ensures that its products, including the Barracuda series, remain relevant and reliable. The ST3160812AS stands as a testament to Seagate’s dedication to providing storage solutions that meet the diverse needs of today’s computing landscape.
