SSD Defined - Part 2

Size Matters

To be a true plug-in replacement for HDDs, Flash-based SSDs are manufactured in standard.5" &.5" form factors..5" SSDs are normally used in laptops or notebooks while the.5" form factors are used in desktops, or in JBOD or other SAN/NAS/DAS configurations. They can often be used to replace traditional disks in storage arrays or in a server's internal disk bays. Flash-based SSDs definitely fit the storage needs of most embedded systems that need much smaller form factors.

Reliability

In terms of reliability, conventional HDDs pale when compared to SSDs. The absence of mechanical arms & spinning platters is the reason behind its reliability. In demanding environments, SSDs provide the type of ruggedness necessary for mobile applications. Unlike the HDD, SSD's can withstand extreme shock & vibration with knowledge integrity & without any danger of knowledge loss. This feature is important in industrial applications where exposure to highly flammable materials & electromagnetic radiation are typical. Their ability to deliver unnerving performance in extreme conditions also makes SSD play a vital role in military operations, be it in defense, aerospace or aviation applications. Military applications need, in most cases, an operating temperature range of -60�°C to +95�°C. Shock, vibration, & temperature ratings of HDDs cannot comply with military standards, only SSDs can.

Power Play

In addition to speed, reliability & mortality rate being positively affected by the SSD's non-volatility, they also consume much less power than traditional HDDs. No additional power is necessary to activate the platters or the mechanical arms present in most HDDs. Its power consumption is practically only a fraction of a hard disk drive.

Heat Dissipation

Along with the lower power consumption, there is also much lesser heat dissipation for systems using Flash-based SSDs as their knowledge storage solution. This is due to the absence of heat generated from the rotating/movable media. This definitely proves to be one of the main advantages of Flash-based SSDs relative to that of a traditional HDD. With less heat dissipation, it serves as the ideal knowledge storage solution for mobile systems such as PDAs, notebooks, etc. Users can do away with giant cooling fans, internal power supply & batteries for giant storage arrays in storage area networks.