Flash memory and storage
Top Stories
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News
13 Nov 2024
Micron, Solidigm bring new high-capacity SSDs to market
Micron and Solidigm are launching new high-density SSDs that add to a growing market. AI workloads and hyperscalers are driving the demand. Continue Reading
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News
11 Nov 2024
NetApp expands flash and hybrid arrays for edge and AI apps
NetApp aims new storage arrays at the mid-market and drops Astra data management into Trident. Continue Reading
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News
11 Nov 2024
NetApp expands flash and hybrid arrays for edge and AI apps
NetApp aims new storage arrays at the mid-market and drops Astra data management into Trident. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Oct 2024
What is SRAM (static random access memory)?
SRAM (static RAM) is a type of random access memory (RAM) that retains data bits in its memory as long as power is being supplied. Continue Reading
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News
30 Oct 2024
Scality aims to build speed for object storage with Ring XP
Scality's Ring XP utilizes all-flash storage hardware with a stripped-down software-defined storage platform. The service brings fast access times for object storage on-premises. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Sep 2024
What is wear leveling?
Wear leveling is a process that is designed to extend the life of solid-state storage devices. Continue Reading
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News
24 Sep 2024
NetApp integrates security, adds hardware for GenAI future
NetApp executives see a disaggregated future for its storage hardware and software into data management, but industry analysts question how storage admins will handle these duties. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Sep 2024
An intro to CAMM memory and how it compares with DIMMs
Compression attached memory modules, or CAMMs, are making news as a potential replacement for DRAM DIMMs. How big of a future do they have? Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Sep 2024
Compare 3 differences in self-managed and Open-Channel SSDs
Open-Channel SSDs can be beneficial but only in the right uses. There are three key differences to analyze with their management as compared to self-managed SSDs. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Sep 2024
AI model training drives up demand for high-bandwidth memory
Developed over a decade ago, high-bandwidth memory is experiencing a sharp uptick in popularity due to the demand for high-end GPUs from chipmakers like Nvidia. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Aug 2024
What is a transistor?
A transistor is a miniature semiconductor that regulates or controls current or voltage flow in addition to amplifying and generating these electrical signals and acting as a switch/gate for them. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Aug 2024
What is NetApp?
NetApp, formerly Network Appliance, Inc., is a multinational corporation in the computer technologies industry specializing in data storage hardware, software and cloud services. Continue Reading
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News
14 Aug 2024
Memory and storage experts share highlights from FMS 2024
Industry experts look back on the expanded FMS 2024, weighing in on the big takeaways and what discussions say about the future of the storage and memory markets. Continue Reading
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News
06 Aug 2024
Kioxia wins lifetime achievement for 3D NAND amid IPO plans
The flash storage industry wouldn't be where it is today without 3D NAND. To celebrate its invention, Kioxia is receiving a Future of Memory and Storage Lifetime Achievement Award. Continue Reading
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News
02 Aug 2024
Major changes could reshape the NAND flash market
The last few years have seen NAND prices crater before rebounding. The next few years may see the major players in the market go public, split or merge. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Aug 2024
How the key-value SSD promises to outperform block storage
Key-value SSDs show potential in performance and storage management, but how would they be implemented? What other advantages do they offer over block storage? Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Aug 2024
What is a partition in computers?
A partition is a logical division of a hard disk drive (HDD) that's treated as a separate unit by operating systems (OSes) and file systems. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Jul 2024
What is an embedded MultiMediaCard (eMMC)?
An embedded MultiMediaCard (eMMC) is a small storage device made up of NAND flash memory and a storage controller. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Jul 2024
What is an NVDIMM (non-volatile dual in-line memory module)?
An NVDIMM (non-volatile dual in-line memory module) is hybrid computer memory that retains data during a service outage. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jul 2024
What is NVMe over Fibre Channel (NVMe over FC)? Definition and Guide
Non-volatile memory express over Fibre Channel (NVMe over FC) is a technology specification designed to enable NVMe-based message commands to transfer data and status information between a host computer and a target storage subsystem over a Fibre Channel network fabric. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jul 2024
Micron brings its first PCIe 5.0 SSD to market with 9550
A late entry to the PCIe 5.0 SSD market, the Micron 9550 intends to set itself apart from the veterans in the Gen 5 arena, including Kioxia and Samsung. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Jul 2024
What is U.2 SSD (formerly SFF-8639)?
A U.2 SSD is a high-performance data storage device designed to support the Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe) interface using a small form factor (SFF) connector that is also compatible with standard SAS and SATA-based spinning disks and solid-state drives (SSDs). Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Jul 2024
What is SSD RAID (solid-state drive RAID)?
SSD RAID (solid-state drive RAID) is a methodology commonly used to protect data by distributing redundant data blocks across multiple SSDs. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jul 2024
What is a CompactFlash card (CF card)?
A CompactFlash card (CF card) is a memory card format developed by SanDisk in 1994 that uses flash memory technology to store data on a very small portable device. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jul 2024
JEDEC
JEDEC is a global industry group that develops open standards for microelectronics. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jul 2024
SSD caching
SSD caching, also known as 'flash caching' or 'flash memory caching,' is the temporary storage of frequently-accessed data on NAND flash memory chips in a solid-state drive (SSD) to improve the drive's input/output (I/O) performance and allow data requests to be met with improved speed. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Jul 2024
SSD TRIM
SSD TRIM is a command for the Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA) interface that enables an operating system (OS) to inform a NAND flash solid-state drive (SSD) which data blocks it can erase because they are no longer in use. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jul 2024
RRAM or ReRAM (resistive random access memory)
RRAM, also known as resistive random access memory or ReRAM, is a form of non-volatile storage that operates by changing the resistance of a specially formulated solid dielectric material. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Jun 2024
cache memory
Cache memory is a chip-based computer component that makes retrieving data from the computer's memory more efficient. Continue Reading
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News
19 Jun 2024
Pure Storage adds AI and automation, extends SLAs
Pure Storage is introducing new AI features, including a new copilot aimed at providing efficiency, ease of use and security, while expanding SLAs for data protection and recovery. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jun 2024
erasure coding (EC)
Erasure coding (EC) is a method of data protection in which data is broken into fragments, expanded and encoded with redundant data pieces, and stored across a set of different locations or storage media. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2024
3D XPoint
3D XPoint is memory storage technology that was jointly developed by Intel and Micron Technology. The two vendors intended for the technology to fill a gap in the storage market between dynamic RAM (DRAM) and NAND flash. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2024
hybrid hard drive (HHD)
A hybrid hard drive (HHD), sometimes known as a solid-state hybrid drive (SSHD), is a mass storage device that combines a conventional hard disk drive (HDD) and a NAND flash memory module. Continue Reading
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News
07 Jun 2024
WD unveils storage for AI framework alongside new drives
As the focus for enterprise AI spreads beyond compute, Western Digital introduces a new SSD and HDD. It also released an AI framework that outlines what storage should be used when. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jun 2024
memristor
A memristor is an electrical component that limits or regulates the flow of electrical current in a circuit and remembers the amount of charge that has previously flowed through it. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 May 2024
form factor
In computing, form factor refers to the size, configuration, shape, weight or physical arrangement of a computing device. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 May 2024
SAS SSD (Serial-Attached SCSI solid-state drive)
A SAS SSD (Serial-Attached SCSI solid-state drive) is a NAND flash memory-based storage or caching device designed to fit in the same slot as a hard disk drive (HDD) and use the SAS interface to connect to the host computer. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 May 2024
TLC flash (triple-level cell flash)
TLC flash (triple-level cell flash) is a type of NAND flash memory that stores three bits of data per cell. Continue Reading
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News
14 May 2024
NetApp freshens storage hardware with AFF A-Series flash
A new line of flash storage hardware focused on high availability and performance headlines NetApp's new offerings along with several storage software updates. Continue Reading
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News
26 Apr 2024
IBM offers storage hardware subscription program
IBM Storage Assurance offers a new subscription model centered around on-premises hardware, while FlashSystem 5300 introduces an entry-level all-flash array to the portfolio. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Apr 2024
software redundant array of independent disk (software RAID)
Software RAID, also known as virtual RAID, is a form of RAID (software redundant array of independent disk) performed on an internal server. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2024
How Software-Enabled Flash could aid SSD management
A new development in flash storage could be a flexible option for any large-scale installation, as well as systems with custom software that's tuned for optimum performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Mar 2024
IOPS (input/output operations per second)
IOPS (input/output operations per second) is the standard unit of measurement for the maximum number of reads/writes to noncontiguous storage locations. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Mar 2024
Pure Storage
Pure Storage is a provider of enterprise data flash storage products designed to substitute for electromechanical disk arrays. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Mar 2024
solid-state storage
Solid-state storage is a type of computer storage media that stores data electronically and has no moving parts. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Mar 2024
removable media
Removable media is any type of storage device that can be removed from a computer while the system is running. Removable media makes it easy for a user to move data from one computer to another. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Mar 2024
RAID 50 (RAID 5+0)
RAID 50, also known as RAID 5+0, combines distributed parity (RAID 5) with striping (RAID 0). It requires a minimum of six drives. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Mar 2024
NVRAM (non-volatile random access memory)
NVRAM (non-volatile random access memory) refers to computer memory that can hold data even when power to the memory chips has been turned off. Continue Reading
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News
05 Mar 2024
HPE GreenLake for File Storage update aimed at AI
HPE GreenLake has utilized new CPUs and denser SSDs to bring more AI and data lake workloads to customers looking for an alternative to the public cloud. Continue Reading
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News
05 Mar 2024
NetApp deepens storage offerings, security for AI buyers
New data protection and ransomware recovery features headline the latest NetApp updates. The vendor is also expanding its Nvidia partnership to ensure its offerings are AI-ready. Continue Reading
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News
27 Feb 2024
IBM FlashSystem update focuses on ransomware detection
IBM FlashSystem builds on the ransomware fight in primary storage by adding AI to its FlashCore Module storage media and to Storage Defender, its data protection SaaS. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Feb 2024
RAM (random access memory)
Random access memory (RAM) is the hardware in a computing device that provides temporary storage for the operating system (OS), software programs and any other data in current use so they're quickly available to the device's processor. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2024
The promise of CXL still hangs in the balance
With AI pushing at the limits of hyperscaler environments, CXL offers a way to alleviate the memory problem. But it still requires a killer app if it's going to gain ground. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Feb 2024
7 causes of SSD failure and how to deal with them
Although SSDs are a reliable storage technology, they are still prone to occasional failure. Here are some best practices to keep your SSDs humming along. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Feb 2024
How can flape storage help my organization?
While flape was a concept coined by Wikibon back in 2012, now might be the time to employ the combination of flash and tape for a multi-tier storage system. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Feb 2024
computational storage
Computational storage is an IT architecture in which data is processed at the storage device level to reduce the amount of data that must move between the storage plane and the compute plane. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Feb 2024
How to employ conventional SSD management
In the conventional style, admins manage SSDs within the SSD. Best practices include using the trim command and occasionally checking the SSD's SMART attributes. Continue Reading
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News
05 Feb 2024
Cloudian HyperStore 8 unites file, object storage
Cloudian's latest release of HyperStore lets hybrid storage deployments seamlessly swap between file and object. Analysts speculate how it will compete in a crowded market. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jan 2024
A pseudo-SLC flash primer: Benefits and drawbacks
Regardless of its use, pseudo-SLC represents a credible option for organizations considering multibit flash over SLC flash. The technology makes MLC and TLC function like SLC. Continue Reading
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News
23 Jan 2024
Nexsan adds data protection to NV6000 unified storage
Nexsan's new unified array, the NV6000, adds immutable snapshots that create an 'unbreakable' backup when combined with the vendor's Assureon backup appliance. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jan 2024
SSD write cycle
An SSD write cycle is the process of programming data to a NAND flash memory chip in a solid-state storage device. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Jan 2024
How AI in SSDs could help enterprises
Several vendors are equipping SSDs with artificial intelligence. An AI SSD could help enterprises in such areas as management, performance and security. Continue Reading
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News
07 Dec 2023
Generative AI fuels demand for hybrid cloud storage in 2024
Object storage remains an important component of generative AI creation and training, driving enterprise IT teams to consider hybrid cloud storage for lower costs and more options. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Dec 2023
HDD form factor (hard disk drive form factor)
HDD form factor (hard disk drive form factor) is the size or geometry of a data storage device equipped with one or more magnetic-coated spinning platters and one or more moving actuator arms with magnetic heads to read and write information. Continue Reading
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News
17 Nov 2023
Nashville Electric selects Pure Storage to provide power
A Nashville-based power company decided to migrate off an outdated, ill-fitting Dell storage system to something more modern and more reasonable. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Nov 2023
Tier 0
Tier 0 is a level of data storage that is faster, and perhaps more expensive, than any other level in the storage hierarchy. Continue Reading
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News
30 Oct 2023
Western Digital to split flash, HDD business units in two
Western Digital will spin off its flash storage business into a separate company by the second half of 2024, leaving hard drives under the WD banner. Continue Reading
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Opinion
26 Oct 2023
NetApp aims to boost all-flash consolidation with ASA C-Series
NetApp's ability to deliver multi-cloud capabilities with Google and other cloud providers rather than as a storage-as-software deployment might accelerate multi-cloud operations. Continue Reading
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News
24 Oct 2023
NetApp adds new flash hardware, debuts VMware DR service
The enterprise storage vendor continues its hybrid cloud portfolio push with capacity flash for the ASA hardware family and bolts a VMware DR service to its BlueXP console. Continue Reading
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News
17 Oct 2023
Micron first to bring 232 layers to mainstream SSDs
The 7500, Micron's latest SSD, uses the company's 232-layer NAND technology to support a broad set of use cases at a lower price point than its high-end counterparts. Continue Reading
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News
02 Oct 2023
What a Western Digital-Kioxia merger might mean for NAND
Speculation that Kioxia and Western Digital could combine their NAND businesses is making rounds again. Analysts consider what it may mean for the flash memory market. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Sep 2023
How SSD encryption can protect enterprise data
It's easy for an SSD to fall into the wrong hands. Encryption, which is common in SSDs, is a powerful tool to protect mission-critical and personal data. Continue Reading
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News
19 Sep 2023
Infinidat offers all-flash within a hybrid array
Infinidat places a virtual all-flash array in its hybrid storage system while doubling the capacity of InfiniBox SSA and carving it up for easier consumption. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Sep 2023
RAID 4 (redundant array of independent disks)
RAID 4 (redundant array of independent disks) is a RAID configuration that uses a dedicated parity disk and block-level striping across multiple disks. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Aug 2023
forward error correction (FEC)
Forward error correction (FEC) is a method for obtaining error control in data transmission in which the source (transmitter) sends redundant data and the destination (receiver) recognizes only the portion of the data that contains no apparent errors. Continue Reading
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News
22 Aug 2023
SSD, flash memory advances to see slow walk to market
New SSDs and CXL memory modules were on display at the 2023 Flash Memory Summit, but it might take market adjustments, new infrastructure and time to reap the benefits. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Aug 2023
RAID 6
RAID 6, also known as double-parity RAID, is one of several RAID schemes that work by placing data on multiple disks and enabling I/O operations to overlap in a balanced way, improving performance. Continue Reading
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News
11 Aug 2023
MemVerge, XConn, Samsung, H3 unite to show benefits of CXL
Four vendors combine technologies to demonstrate CXL memory pooling at the Flash Memory Summit and tout its benefits to use cases like generative AI. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Aug 2023
semiconductor fab
A semiconductor fab -- short for fabrication -- is a manufacturing plant in which raw silicon wafers are turned into integrated circuits (ICs). Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Aug 2023
serial peripheral interface (SPI)
A serial peripheral interface (SPI) is an interface commonly used in computers and embedded systems to facilitate short-distance communication between a microcontroller and one or more peripheral integrated circuits (ICs). Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Aug 2023
Computational storage SSD options vary in benefit level
Computational storage SSDs come in two major formats: programmable and fixed-function. They have stark differences in feature set and market acceptance. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jul 2023
floating gate transistor (FGT)
A floating gate transistor (FGT) is a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology capable of holding an electrical charge in a memory device that is used to store data. Continue Reading
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Opinion
24 Jul 2023
IBM FlashSystem 5045 aids access to storage cyber resilience
As ransomware and other cyber attacks persist, enterprises should prioritize cyber resilience. IBM's FlashSystem 5045 improves accessibility for that protection. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jul 2023
flash memory card
A flash memory card -- sometimes called a storage card -- is a small storage device that uses non-volatile semiconductor memory to store data on portable or remote computing devices. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Jul 2023
NVMe over Fabrics (NVMe-oF)
NVMe over Fabrics, also known as NVMe-oF and non-volatile memory express over fabrics, is a protocol specification designed to connect hosts to storage across a network fabric using the NVMe network protocol. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Jul 2023
DreamWorks Animation taps NetApp in transition to cloud
DreamWorks Animation built a microservices-focused hybrid storage architecture by combining NetApp flash storage and software with Microsoft Azure cloud services. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jul 2023
SmartNICs and the need for evolving network infrastructure
SmartNICs can meet the increasing demand for high performance, low latency and secure data transfer. But the implementation of smartNICs requires reliable network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jul 2023
all-flash array (AFA)
An all-flash array (AFA), also known as a solid-state storage disk system or a solid-state array, is an external storage array that supports only flash media for persistent storage. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jul 2023
SAS vs. NVMe: The future of 2 key storage interfaces
In SAS vs. NVMe, both interfaces play significant roles in enterprise storage. See how they stack up in terms of performance, scalability, flexibility and manageability. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jul 2023
Explore benefits, tradeoffs with SLC vs. MLC vs. TLC and more
Learn the important capacity, performance and reliability differences among multilayer flash types, including SLC vs. MLC vs. TLC, and typical uses for each. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jul 2023
Flash memory guide to architecture, types and products
Flash memory, a staple of consumer electronics, is playing a wider role in enterprise storage. This guide offers an overview of flash, from current use cases to future directions. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jun 2023
flash storage
Flash storage is any type of drive, repository or system that uses flash memory to write and store data for an extended period. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2023
EEPROM vs. flash memory: What's the difference?
Even though there might be a 10 million-to-one price-per-gigabyte difference between EEPROM and NAND flash, each memory type makes sense in its own role. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jun 2023
PCIe SSD (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express solid-state drive)
A PCIe SSD (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express solid-state drive) is a high-speed expansion card that attaches a computer to its peripherals. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jun 2023
NVMe (non-volatile memory express)
NVMe (non-volatile memory express) is a transfer protocol created to accelerate the transfer speed of data in solid-state storage devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jun 2023
QLC vs. TLC SSDs: Which is best for your storage needs?
QLC flash memory is best for most read-intensive workloads, while TLC is suited to write-dominant workloads. Discover how QLC vs. TLC NAND are coexisting in the data center. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jun 2023
A primer on SSD response time, other performance benchmarks
Consider several SSD performance benchmarks, including SSD response time, as key units of measurement. Also, note the difference between benchmarks and load generators. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jun 2023
M.2 SSD
An M.2 SSD is a small form factor solid-state drive (SSD) that internally mounted storage expansion cards use. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jun 2023
flash memory
Flash memory, also known as flash storage, is a type of nonvolatile memory that erases data in units called blocks and rewrites data at the byte level. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jun 2023
hybrid flash array
A hybrid flash array is a solid-state storage system that contains a mix of flash memory drives and hard disk drives. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Jun 2023
Flash memory vs. RAM: What's the difference?
Even though vendors refer to flash memory and conventional RAM -- the main memory of a PC or server -- as solid-state memory, these two memory types are significantly different. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jun 2023
Charge trap technology advantages for 3D NAND flash drives
Flash drive cells based on charge trap technology have several advantages over older floating gate cells. However, take note of potential reliability issues. Continue Reading