Western Digital was able to increase their platter size to 1.2TB for the Red/Green 6TB models while sticking with a five platter count. Hitachi made waves with the Ultrastar He6, a drive filled with low resistance Helium which reduces air friction and allows for seven thinner platters. Manufacturers have got around this limitation in different ways. Getting to the 6TB level presented some problems, as only five platters normally fit in a standard 3.5 inch drive and the 1TB platter is the largest common standard.

Still, there is always excitement when capacity bumps happen, not just for the new drives themselves but for the eventual price reduction of smaller models. 3TB drives debuted in 2010 and 6TB models were introduced only this year. Throughout the 2000’s, capacity expanded almost like clockwork, typically doubling every couple of years, but the drive density improvement rate has recently slowed.

Despite the rigors of time and advances in alternative storage methods, it remains the most cost-effective solution to our growing storage needs. The mechanical hard drive is the most antiquated component in modern computer systems as it still depends on moving parts.

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