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There are many reasons why industrial application designers and engineers opt for SLC flash memory. This industrial grade of flash offers the highest level of data security available, as well as the longest lifespan of any kind of flash memory. The temperature range of SLC is also significant to industrial device designers. SLC flash memory has to operate in rugged conditions in which temperature extremes or wide temperature fluctuations are possible without compromising the integrity of the data or the functionality of the device. Many people have questions about SLC temperature ranges when contemplating their options for flash memory. Here are the answers to some of the questions designers and engineers often have.

What exactly is SLC flash?

SLC stands for single-level cell. With SLC flash, only one bit of data is stored per cell. One benefit of SLC flash is that it is faster than other forms of flash memory. Because it only has to read and write one bit of data per cell, there is only one electric charge required. This allows for fast operations.

There is also a lower risk of write errors occurring because of a power failure when only one bit of data has to be written. The lifespan of SLC flash is longer than that of other forms of flash because writing one bit of data per cell allows for maximum efficiency in block usage. SLC flash is also more tolerant to shock and vibration than other flash grades. However, the most important advantage for many users is the temperature range available with SLC flash.

What is the SLC temperature range?

Typically, SLC flash has an operating temperature range of -40 degree C up to 85 degrees C. This range is larger than that of other flash grades. SLC flash memory devices will not degrade or become less reliable within this temperature range, and they can also tolerate rapid temperature swings. Because industrial applications are often used in environments with extreme temperatures, it is essential for the flash memory to accommodate these temperatures without loss of functionality.

Is SLC the only flash technology with this temperature range?

Industrial temperature ranges are found in some MLC flash products. Usually, these MLC flash products are utility grade. This means that they have MLC capacity combined with temperature ranges typical of SLC flash. Industrial users should verify that the SLC temperature range is included in any MLC flash product they are considering.

Delkin can help you navigate decisions about industrial storage for your device. Our team is available to answer your questions about SLC temperature ranges and other aspects of rugged storage.

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