| Short for Revolutions Per
Minute, RPM is used to help determine the access time on computer hard
disk drives. RPM is a measurement of how many complete
revolutions a computer's hard disk drive makes in a single minute.
The higher the RPM, the faster the data will be accessed; for
example, if you were comparing two hard disk drives, one
with 5400 RPM and another with 7200 RPM, the hard disk drive with
a 7200 RPM will be capable of accessing data much faster than the 5400
RPM drive. However, it is also important to note that a 5400 RPM drive will be
much cheaper than a 7200 RPM drive.
While it may not be a noticeable speed difference when loading
small files, the RPM of a hard disk drive can make a dramatic
difference when loading large files and/or several hundred or
thousand files. We always recommend users get at least a 7200 RPM
drive.
- Additional hard disk drive buying tips and help can be found
here.
RPM can also refer to the revolutions per minute a computer fan
spins at. Generally, with higher RPM, the fan will move more air
and/or remove more heat from the computer or processor. However,
as you increase the RPM of a fan, you will also notice an
increase in noise or decibel (dBa).
Also see: Decibel, Hard disk drive
definitions, Measurement,
Seek time
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