Scientists: table salt can boost storage capacity.

• Position: INFO TECHNOLOGY - Report - Brief article

Scientists in Singapore said they have discovered a process that can expand the data storage capacity of computer hard disks six-fold by using table salt.

Singapore's national research institute, the Agency for Science, Technology and Research, working with the National University of Singapore and the Data Storage Institute, have "developed a process that can increase the data recording density of hard disks to 3.3 terabits per square inch, six times the recording density of current models," according to a statement.

Scientists said they were able to boost data storage capacity by packing more bits in neater patterns, as compared to the random configurations used in current hard disk drives.

The method--called bit patterning--had previously not been feasible as scientists were unable to see the outlines of the bits clearly after they had been printed onto a...