TDK eSSD integrates controller and flash memory in a single package

An SSD with serial ATA interface uses multi-chip technology to integrate the controller and 1 to 4 GB of SLC NAND flash memory in a single package. The eSSD series from TDK Corp. features the GBDriver RS3 controller for robust operation in industrial applications. The drives support read access speeds of up to 55 MB/s and write access speeds up to 30 MB/s. AES*128-bit encryption provides robust security. Incorporation of an ATA standard protection function allows customers to set and remove a password.

The GBDriver RS3 offers TDK’s global static wear leveling algorithm, which counts the number of times each memory block is rewritten (erased) and replaces blocks uniformly. Static blocks such as OS/FAT are also periodically leveled, which drastically improves the lifespan of the installed flash memory. The 4 GB type, for example, supports 786 million rewrite cycles. Even at a rate of 2.5 rewrites per second, this equates to an expected service life of 10 years.

A proprietary algorithm reduces the risk of collateral data errors such as corruption of data other than the data being written if power is interrupted when writing data. 15-bit error correction capability and an auto recovery function combined to correct bit errors automatically during repeated read operations (read disturbance errors). A data randomizer function invoked during the write process automatically randomizes data patterns to minimize the risk of bit errors that occur when the same data is written repeatedly.

The drives also feature clipping functions that allow the number of logical blocks allocated to a data area to be adjusted up or down in individual block units. SMART command support retrieves the number of times all memory blocks are rewritten (erased), which enables easy determination of the flash memory status and facilitates appropriate life span management.

Applications include industrial equipment, medical devices, automotive instrumentation, communications, POS devices, and consumer electronics.

The product is slated for availability in April. An evaluation kit includes an mSATA module and a mSATA-SATA converter board. Click here for more information.


Did you find this article of interest? Then visit the Memory DesignLine, where we update daily with design, technology, product, and news articles tailored to fit your world. Too busy to go every day? Sign up for our newsletter to get the week's best items delivered to your inbox. Just click here and choose the "Manage Newsletters" tab.