Answering Questions about Industrial Flash Storage for Aerospace Applications
The need for data security can hardly be higher than it is in aerospace applications. With these applications, it is necessary to combine inscrutable data security with rugged operability. As a result, aerospace applications require specialized solutions for flash memory. Initially, aerospace adopted flash storage slowly and cautiously. However, now that it is the preferred memory format, customized solutions for industrial flash storage for aerospace applications have been developed to meet the demands of the industry.
Because of the specialized needs that aerospace has for flash memory, it is common for designers, OEMs, and engineers to have questions. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we hear about industrial flash storage for aerospace applications.
What are the advantages of flash storage for aerospace applications?
Flash storage offers several advantages for all users. In the industrial grade format, flash memory is dramatically faster than HDD embedded storage. Solid state drive (SSD) flash memory saves data using a series of electrical charges, rather than using a spinning, magnetic disk, as HDD memory does. Without the moving parts that have to start up for every operation, SSDs are much faster.
The lack of moving parts also makes flash memory far less prone to data loss than HDD memory. In addition, flash memory has low power demands. Industrial grade flash memory is also able to withstand extended temperature ranges and high levels of shock and vibration. These features are critical for aerospace applications, where extreme temperatures and rugged conditions are very common.
Why do aerospace applications need industrial grade flash storage?
There are multiple types of flash storage that are designed for different uses. Industrial flash storage is designed with SLC, or single-level cell, flash technology. With SLC flash, one bit of data is stored per cell. This design allows SLC flash to offer the highest speeds and the highest level of data security.
SLC flash has the highest endurance of all NAND flash. SLC flash memory devices are rated for up to 100,000 Program / Erase (P/E) cycles. The higher endurance makes SLC more reliable for applications that demand storage devices to operate without issues. As a result, SLC is widely seen as the best option for aerospace applications.
What about the capacity and lifespan of industrial flash memory?
Flash storage generally has a smaller capacity than HDD storage. It also has a finite lifespan. However, these issues are not prohibitive for aerospace. Industrial flash storage for aerospace applications can be customized with wear-leveling algorithms and other features to ensure that it is being used as efficiently as possible within a specific device. When you work with a Delkin team member, they will take the time to understand the specifics of your aerospace application. Then, they will make sure that you get the capacity necessary for your device and its intended usage.
Industrial flash memory has the longest lifespan of all types of flash memory. It also comes with an important feature known as lifecycle management, which helps users plan for the transition to new memory when needed. Lifecycle management notifies users when a flash storage device is reaching the end of its useful life. With this information, users can make plans to replace the storage with a new memory card. This helps to minimize downtime and prevent unanticipated failures in the field.
Additionally, industrial flash storage comes with a locked bill of materials (BOM). With flash memory products created for the consumer market, manufacturers can replace components of the flash without warning. This can lead to compatibility issues. With industrial flash storage and a locked BOM, no flash component—including the controller—will be replaced without advanced notification and the issuing of a new product number. This allows users to certify new storage and solve any compatibility issues before they need to switch to the new storage device. In addition, thanks to the advance notification of flash storage discontinuations, customers can place final orders to stock up on flash memory cards as they make decisions about transitioning to a new format.
Delkin understands the specialized needs that aerospace has for flash memory. We provide industrial flash storage for aerospace applications that offers the highest possible level of data security and that meets stringent standards. Our team can work with you on a customized solution that protects critical data and can withstand even the most rugged operating conditions. Talk to one of our team members today about your requirements for embedded flash memory for your specific aerospace application.
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