OCZ's New Firmware Can Improve Performance, Realiability of 20nm-Class NAND Flash Memory

OCZ Technology Group on Monday introduced a new firmware technology for solid-state drives (SSDs) that can allow installation of inexpensive NAND flash memory manufactured using 20nm-class process technology into SSDs that require improved reliability.

Modern multi-level cell (MLC) flash memory that is produced using thin fabrication processors is generally less reliable than similar memory products made using older process technologies. However, manufacturers cannot keep using old manufacturing methods since they need to reduce their production costs. In a bid to maintain reliability, improve performance and lower manufacturing costs, new solid-state drive controllers and firmware technologies are needed.

OCZ Technology unveiled the Arowana Flash Translation Layer (FTL) from Indilinx. The firmware technology supports both existing and upcoming Indilinx controllers and can improve performance and enterprise capabilities and enables SSD suppliers to deploy cost-effective 20nm-class NAND flash memory.

The new Arowana FTL enhances performance of Indilinx controllers with HyperQueuing, which significantly increases sequential write speeds and random IOPS over the previous generation FTL. In addition, Arowana's support of 2xnm flash provides SSD suppliers with the ability to offer end users a more attractive product with lower cost NAND components. The new Arowana FTL also maximizes the life of low endurance flash with INXtend technology.

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