IBM uses decades-old trick to cram 11TB onto 5TB SSD

After Samsung’s SmartSSD, it’s IBM flip to disclose that it’s engaged on an enterprise storage resolution based mostly by itself proprietary expertise. It’s known as FlashCore Module 2 (or FCM2) and marries some very outdated ideas (as outdated as computing itself) with some leading edge options in an SSD.

The latter comes within the form of Everspin’s magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM), which gives an inherently non-volatile write cache that’s as quick as system reminiscence present in smartphones or computer systems.

The different important transfer is using 96-layer QLC moderately than 64-layer TLC, which could be a step too far for purists who imagine QLC doesn’t provide sufficient endurance/knowledge retention.

As for the old-turned-new idea, FCM2 compression is analogous to Doublespace in MS-DOS or compression software program Stacker (do not forget that?).

Again, right here, Big Blue uses expertise that comes from its IBM Z mainframe line; line-rate clear compression permits it to obtain a median compression ratio of about 2.28:1, in contrast to 2.5:1 for LTO tape and three:1 for Samsung’s SmartSSD.

IBM will ship FlashCore modules with capacities starting from 4.8TB to 38.4TB, with rated compressed capacities between 11TB and 88TB. Given that Micron has introduced 178-layer NAND with 200+ layers on the horizon, FC modules with capacities past 100TB are throughout the realms of chance.

IBM’s FlashSystem storage home equipment can pack up to 24 drives in a 2U rack, providing up to 0.76PB native capability with a throughput of 40GBps. A 42U cupboard ought to subsequently ship a complete capability of 12.13PB, albeit with a watch watering price ticket.

Via AnandTech