Next-Generation data storage: Transistor and DNA

With the generation of diverse data growing at exponential rates, investigating better digital storage media is inevitable. Currently, one solution is the utilization of solid-state based memory devices, which offer several desirable characteristics, including very fast write/read operations, scalability, and reduced fabrication costs. However, with the increased need for long term and large storage space, their data retention capabilities drastically decline. Another emerging storage technology on the horizon is the biotechnological based DNA storage, which renders a phenomenal storage capacities. In this paper, basics of these two promising storage technologies are reviewed and their potential future trends are discussed.