HDPC-AU disk IO Data is set to 1 TB

The manufacturer IO Data has announced the launch of a version of its 1 TB external hard drive HDPC-AU. Available in five different colors (black, white, brown, blue and red), this external hard drive 2.5-inch format displays the dimensions of 75 x 112 x 14 mm and weighs 160 grams. It has a single USB 2.0 interface and is therefore silent on the USB 3.0 or eSATA.

Guaranteed for one year, the HDPC-TO 1 TB should be offered at a price of $ 195. It should make its appearance by the end of the month in Japan at first.

• Reactionary Mentions the Disqus Way (16/06/2011)
• Chizik: AU Had No Fears on Newton's Eligibility (16/06/2011)
• AU representative says crisis in Libya requires both short, long-term solutions (16/06/2011)
• Oh, Disqus, How I Loathe Thee (08/04/2011)
• Keep Your Visitors Hostage by Giving them What They Want (06/06/2011)

I-O Data (wikipedia)  Astronomical unit (wikipedia)  

Lifespan of SSD: Epilogue and Future (10)

On 20 December, we launched an interesting experiment: try to use a DSS to see if life really was a problem. For those who do not follow our adventures, we used a model based on MLC flash memory and 4x nm driven by a Barefoot home Indilinx. The SSD in question has survived for 4 months while we were writing continuously from a Velociraptor.

In total, we wrote about 650 terabytes of data before the SSD begins to cause problems with errors in the proofreading of written data. Ideally, we wrote between 500 and 1000 times more per day than what SSD manufacturers use it as a classic: the values announced vary from 5 to 10 GB for an average user and we were around 5 TB Two problems arose: first, sequential writes use less than the SSD random writes of small files (current standard in use), because of the very structure of flash memory, and secondly we realized that the updated firmware - in some cases - resetting the information on the wear of the SSD.

SSD SandForce to 556 Mb / s at OWC

The manufacturer has just launched the OWC Mercury Electra 6G, a 2.5-inch SSD based on a controller SandForce SF-2281 and boasting a 6 Gbps SATA interface. Shipping from MLC NAND flash memory etched in 2x nm, DSS supports NCQ and TRIM. OWC proudly announces that its new SSD, available in capacities of 120 GB, 240 GB and 480 GB is capable of reaching speeds of around 556 MB / s sequential read and 523 MB / s sequential write .

SandForce defective chips in the wild?

If SSDs are the best way to increase the performance of a computer, they are also criticized for their reliability. And after the performance issues (on JMicron models) or updates to some models that are transforming the SSD "brick" (Intel, Crucial), here SandForce defective chips. Indeed, it seems that a (small) part of SF-2281 SandForce chips on the market is problematic and causes blue screens in Windows.

Asus UX21: Sandisk SSD or SSD A-DATA?

Fun: Last week, we reported that A-DATA was selected by Asus to equip the UX21 with an SSD-based SandForce. However, SanDisk also announced equip the UX21 with SSD by a priori design house. In fact, SanDisk announced that it is the U100, the successor to the P4, which will be used in the UX21. This SSD SATA 6 Gbit / s is announced with speeds of 450 MB / s read and 340 MB / s write.

Sandisk announced a low power consumption, but does not indicate the number of IOPS that SSD can reach, the traditional weak point of the controllers of the firm. The fact that two manufacturers - with two different SSD - Announce equip the same machine is amazing, but not incomprehensible: Asus is a big company and work with two partners to the same component is a common practice in the industry.

1 TB with 500 GB platters in 2.5 "

Samsung has announced the SpintPoint M8, a 2.5-inch hard drive 1 TB who has the right idea to work with two 500GB platters, while other models use this ability three trays. The advantage of switching from three to two plates is the thickness: the majority of designs in three trays measuring 12.5 mm thick while the models with two trays merely 9.5 mm.

And with 9.5 mm, so it is compatible with virtually all models of laptops and external enclosures, while the models of 12.5 mm need to carefully choose the material. The hard drive running at 5400 rpm and has 8 MB of cache, while the interface is selected the SATA 3 Gbit / s. The increased density should allow this drive to come and tease the 7200 rpm models of the previous generation in terms of flows, although obviously they retain the advantage of access time.

Corsair recalls its SSD Force Series 3 120 GB

Bad news for recent purchasers of the Series 3 SSD Force Corsair (CSSD-F120GBG3-BK for short), in its 120 GB The manufacturer has indeed set up a reminder program because these SSDs actual performance below those advertised and expected. 60 GB versions and 240 GB, and GT Force are however not affected by this problem.

If you recently purchased one of these SSDs, then you should not make contact with Corsair, so that it replaces your product with a corrected model (both in hardware and firmware). The shipping costs will of course be borne by the manufacturer. It will be appreciated of course especially the reaction of Corsair face this problem ...

• Corsair F120 SSD Overview (09/04/2011)
• Corsair Force Series 3 SSDs: SandForce speed for modest money (17/05/2011)
• Ask Ars: Do solid state drives cause problems with sleep mode? (01/06/2011)
• Corsair brings out extra-fast Force Series 3 SSDs (16/05/2011)
• Webinar Q&A: flash SSD performance & reliability (07/06/2011)

Solid-state drive (wikipedia)  

SandForce and SATA III for Mushkin Chronos

The manufacturer Mushkin has just announced the launch of its first SSD enjoying a 6 Gbps SATA interface: the Chronos and Chronos Deluxe. Controller-based SandForce SF-2281 and using NAND flash memory chips in 25 nm MLC engraved, these SSD 2.5-inch format. A priori available in capacities of 120 GB and 240 GB SSD would be under these Mushkin capable of reaching speeds sequential order of 560 MB / s read and 530 MB / s write.

SSD in all forms Sandisk

The manufacturer SanDisk has recently announced several new products based on flash memory, especially for SSD ultraportable, pills and other mobile devices. Available in sizes SATA "half-slim, and MSAT MSAT Mini, the U100 has a 6 Gbps SATA interface. Capable of reaching maximum speeds of around 450 MB / s sequential read and 340 MB / s sequential write, this SSD is available in capacities ranging from 8 GB to 256 GB rates for these different versions are not yet known.

G. Skill: Pheonix II in the pro version

After presenting his Phoenix II SSD in March, at CeBIT, the manufacturer took advantage of Computex to unveil version "Pro" of the same SSD. Based on the same controller (one SandForce SF-2281), the latter uses NAND flash memory chips etched into 25 nm and has a SATA 6 Gbps. Compared to the classic version, the pro model performs better in random writes (up to 60,000 IOPS).

Read and sequential write, the Phoenix II Pro reached speeds of around 550 Mb / s and 510 Mb / s. Available in 120 GB and 240 GB SSD that has not yet prices.

• Pheonix Schmeenix! It wasn't breast trip I've ever been on! (22/04/2011)
• Philosophorum: Notes on the Pheonix (27/04/2011)
• AT&T's Not So Dynamic Duo: The LG Thrive And Pheonix (12/04/2011)
• T-ara joins Global Starcraft League's 'May BIG EVENT' (20/04/2011)
• Ask Ars: Do solid state drives cause problems with sleep mode? (01/06/2011)

G.Skill (homepage)  G.Skill (wikipedia)  

XM11: SSD "bar" A-DATA

The UX21 from Asus, the first "Ultrabook" is a clone of the MacBook Air in terms of appearance, but at some hardware solutions. Indeed, the SSD of the machine is close enough to the format used by Apple Asus chose to use a "bar" instead of a standard such as the MSAT. Currently, there are SSDs in traditional formats, legacy hard drives, but the market tends to gradually adapt the format to the technology.

Thunderbolt is shown at Computex

Thunderbolt, the standard range of Intel, Apple proves (finally) at Computex. At Computex, watch boxes Pegasus Promise R4 and R6, two external models compatible Thunderbolt and differ on one point: the first accepts four storage devices and the second can receive six. The boxes offer two connectors Thunderbolt, which allows you to chain devices, and RS232, which is a priori for maintenance.

The test model introduced at Computex is equipped with high-end Intel SSD, X25-E equipped with SLC memory, but the final versions should - as LaCie - use Intel SSD 510 (based on Marvell controllers) or simple hard drives. The tests are quite encouraging, with 735 MB / s write, Thunderbolt is the fastest interfaces, the general public, well ahead of USB 3.0, eSATA or FireWire.

Four SATA SSD 6Gbps at Kingmax

The manufacturer Kingmax has announced the imminent arrival on the market of several new models equipped with a SSD SATA 6 Gbps. Still on 2.5-inch SSD support these course NCQ and the TRIM command. Probably based on MLC NAND flash memory, the SSD show a MTBF of 1.2 million hours and are guaranteed for three years.

The controller used is unknown, however. As for performance, Kingmax announced that all models achieve 415 MB / s sequential read. The writing speeds are different depending on their storage capacity of SSD: 95 MB / s for the 64GB model, 175 MB / s for the 128 GB version and 260 MB / s for models 256 GB and 512 GB Unfortunately the manufacturer has not yet indicated the rates of these SSDs.

• Buffalo's 256GB SSD comes with 6GBps SATA interface, silly price tag (26/05/2011)
• Intel 320 Series 120GB SATA 2.5″ Internal SSD for $197 + free shipping (31/05/2011)
• Kingmax MicroSD card hits 64GB mark (25/05/2011)
• SanDisk outs faster U100 and i100 SSDs for ultra-portables and tablets, we go hands-on (31/05/2011)
• Sandisk updates SSD line with SATA III models (31/05/2011)

Serial ATA (wikipedia)  Solid-state drive (wikipedia)  

The "return" in JMicron SSD?

JMicron, the "star" of the first consumer SSD, is not dead. If JMF602 is infamous for its random write performance very low, which brought the "freezes" the machine from users, and JMF612 JMF616 have been used by some manufacturers - like Kingston - without making waves. And for good reason: Controllers, without being bad, are not the thunders of war.

For 2011 and 2012, the company will offer new controllers, JMF605, JMF606, JMF66x and JMF62x, chip a bit special. The controller is JMF605 entry-compatible SATA 3 Gbit / s and with 4 channels for memory. The expected rates are 160 Mb / s read and 130 MB / s write. The JMF606, its evolution is expected in 2012: still 4 channels, but with a SATA 6 Gbit / s.

SSD SandForce in MSAT

The MSAT, mainly driven by a standard Intel Will he finally "take" among manufacturers? Computex can believe with reference designs for SSD-based controllers SandForce. MSAT is the umpteenth variation of the SATA interface, in a very compact physical format. The SSD makes MSAT resume form (and connector) card Mini Card, PCI-Express Internal laptops.

MSAT SSDs are very similar visually maps Wi-Fi laptops, but are incompatible: the Mini Card interface line PCI-Express and USB 2.0 while the MSAT works SATA 3 Gbit / s. Currently, the few machines that accept MSAT MSAT SSD in the slot, but Intel has shown that it is possible to make hybrid connectors, capable of adapting to the card inserted.

The stock prices of SSD: buy a classic SandForce

In our new point on the price of SSDs, we changed our entire product range. We decided to restrict the products to a single capacity: 120 GB (or 128 GB depending on the brand). The reason is simple: it is sufficient capacity for many people and the average price is correct. This type of DSS is perfect for a mid-range machine.

Models of 256 GB and more are still too expensive for most buyers and SSD of 64 GB and less limited interest in technology allowing only install the OS and some programs. Moreover, they distort the comparison, with a higher price per GB because of the unavoidable costs (controller, etc..).

Buffalo SSD 256 GB SATA III

The Buffalo manufacturer has unveiled a new model of SSD 2.5-inch format: the SSD-N256S/MC400. With a capacity of 256 GB, it features a SATA 6 Gbps, gets 256 MB of cache and uses NAND flash memory chips MLC. The controller used is unknown, however. Supporting NCQ and the TRIM command, the SSD is as Buffalo capable of reaching speeds of around 405 MB / s read and 223 MB / s sequential write.

The random access performance have not yet been reported. Expected shortly in Japan, this SSD should be offered at a price of 72,200 yen, equivalent to 620 euros HT (3.5-inch adapter included).

• Gigabyte mobo packs mSATA for use with an on-board SSD (25/05/2011)
• Addonics SATA adapter turns six CF / CFast cards into one SSD (13/04/2011)
• SSD Flex connector to SATA (08/03/2011)
• Review: OCZ Vertex 2 SSD (17/05/2011)
• Intel's upcoming 2011 SSD lineup leaked -- five new series includes PCIe-based drive (01/05/2011)

Serial ATA (wikipedia)  Solid-state drive (wikipedia)  

A 480 GB SSD for the MacBook Air

The manufacturer Mach Xtreme Technology has announced the launch of a new range of SSDs in low-profile format: MX-Katana. Compatible with MacBook Air 2010 Apple (but alas not with previous models), these SSDs are available in capacities of 60 GB, 120 GB, 240 GB and 480 GB Equipped with a SATA 3 Gbps, they use the MLC NAND flash memory.

Performance-wise, the manufacturer proudly announces that its SSDs are able to achieve 275 MB / s read and 225 MB / s sequential write, while reading / writing random 4K peak at 20,000 IOPS. Guaranteed for two years, the MX-Katana SSD should be presented at Computex. It remains to know the price ...

• MacBook Air SSD upgrade provides big storage, mixed speed results (25/05/2011)
• Macworld experiences mixed results with MacBook Air SSD upgrades (24/05/2011)
• twelvesouth introduces BookBook for Macbook Air (25/05/2011)
• Lab Report: Mixed results for MacBook Air SSD upgrades (24/05/2011)
• SSD's in MacBook Air may be slower than the stock drive (24/05/2011)

MacBook Air (homepage)  MacBook Air (wikipedia)  Solid-state drive (wikipedia)  

Ramsan-70: An SSD PCIe 900 MB

The manufacturer TMS (Texas Memory Systems) has unveiled a new model of SSD for the professional market: the Ramsan-70 PCI-Express. As its name suggests, the SSD uses a PCI-Express 8x here. With a maximum capacity of 900 usable GB (450 GB on the card, and an additional 450 GB on a daughter card), the Ramsan-70 uses NAND flash memory chips in 32nm SLC engraved by Toshiba and carries two controllers based on Power of the PC 7.

Arowana makes SSDs Indilinx 5x Faster

OCZ Indilinx owner since the beginning of the year, announced a breakthrough technology. Flash Translation Layer Arowana named, it would multiply by 5 performance SSD controller Indilinx. This technology could be added to the firmware of the controllers Indilinx existing and future. It will be a priori limited to OCZ but given "immediately" to all of cliens Indilinx.

Arowana improve performance in sequential write and random access via a technology HyperQueuing. It would also increase the lifespan of flash memory with INXtend. Finally, Ndurance improves the management of wear, the support of TRIM and functionality Garbarg Collector "companies" and make them compatible controllers with flash memory in 25 nm.