Which storage device is referred to as reel-to-reel?

The term "reel-to-reel" specifically refers to a type of magnetic tape storage device. This device consists of magnetic tape wound around two reels, allowing data to be stored in a linear format. It has historical significance in audio recording, video recording, and data storage, particularly before modern storage solutions became prevalent.

Magnetic tape is used for its capacity to store a large amount of data, and it is known for its durability in long-term storage situations. The reel-to-reel mechanism allows for a high-speed data transfer, making it suitable for applications that require moving through large sequential data streams.

In contrast, the other options represent very different types of storage technologies. Optical drives utilize laser technology to read and write data on optical discs. USB flash drives use flash memory to store data, making them portable and easy to use, while SSDs (Solid State Drives) are fast storage devices that use flash memory chips for quicker data access compared to magnetic tape. Each of these technologies serves different purposes and has distinct characteristics that set them apart from magnetic tape.