MLC-based storage units compatible with the SATA 3.0 Gbps interface

Jun 14, 2010 08:15 GMT  ·  By

Ever since solid state drives first started selling, hardware makers have been on a constant lookout for technologies that could not only enhance their performance, but also ensure that said performance does not degrade over time. The TRIM command took care of the latter by providing algorithms that clean up deleted data, freeing up occupied sectors. When it comes to performance though, there is really just one component that can make a noticeable difference.

SSDs can be built with either SLC (Single-Level Cell) or MLC (Multi-Level Cell) NAND Flash memory chips, each affecting the overall performance in their own way. What determines how fast a unit can read or write, however, is the SSD controller. Super Talent decided to use the popular SandForce in its TeraDrive CT Series.

The TeraDrive CT employs the SF 1222 controller, which allows them to read at 285MB/s and write at 275MB/s. These data transfer rates are considerable, especially since the SATA 3.0Gbps, not the SATA 6.0Gbps interface, was implemented. Additionally, the drives are constructed out of MLC NAND Flash chips, support the aforementioned TRIM, have built-in Garbage Collection capabilities and a MTBF of over 1 million hours.

"The TeraDrive CT is now our fastest desktop/laptop upgrade SSD. It has an amazing feature set combined with exceptional sequential and random transfer speeds and best-in-class reliability," said Joe James, Director of Marketing at Super Talent.

The only so-called 'drawback' of Super Talent's newest creations is that, despite being called TeraDrive, they don't exactly come close to a terabyte of storage space. In fact, the units boast capacities of 60GB, 120GB and 240GB, with respective prices of $199, $349 and $669. It is also implied that a 480GB version will make it out soon, though it is not exactly clear when this will happen.