Delkin Blog

Comparing Commercial Grade and Industrial Grade Flash Memory

 

For OEMs and engineers looking for embedded flash memory solutions, one issue that is sure to pop up regularly is the differences between commercial grade and industrial grade memory. Both forms of flash memory have their place, but picking the wrong grade for your device can cause errors or inefficient operations. Here is a look at how these types of flash memory compare, so you can make an informed decision about using them in your device design.

 

NAND Flash Type

Commercial grade flash memory uses MLC flash storage. MLC stands for multi-level cell and refers to flash memory in which two bits of data are stored per cell. Industrial grade storage uses SLC flash memory. SLC stands for single-level cell. With this kind of flash memory, only one bit of data is stored per cell. SLC flash memory works for significantly more endurance cycles compared to MLC flash—as much as 20 to 30 times more. It is also more reliable for retaining data in extreme temperatures and other rugged operating conditions. Despite the advantages of SLC flash, the MLC flash featured in commercial grade memory is the right fit for many applications. MLC flash offers adequate speed and reliability for commercial use, and can stand up to the operating conditions required of commercial applications.

 

Firmware Algorithms

Firmware algorithms can ensure smoother operations and reduce the risk of unanticipated failures. Generally, the firmware in commercial grade memory does not contain these kinds of algorithms, because they are not relevant for the devices and applications in which the memory is used. On the other hand, industrial grade products have error checking and correction, defect management, and wear-leveling algorithms. These ensure reliable functions and provide operators with advanced notice about a potential failure within the memory before it becomes catastrophic.

 

Temperature Ranges

One of the biggest differences between commercial grade and industrial grade flash memory is the supported temperature ranges. Most industrial flash memory can withstand temperatures ranging from -45 degrees C to 85 degrees C. These extended temperature ranges are necessary for the applications in which industrial flash memory is found, where extreme temperatures and temperature fluctuations are common. Some commercial flash memory is not rated for temperature at all, and those products that are rated typically support operating temperatures ranging from 0 to 70 degrees C. This is because most commercial applications are not used in extreme conditions.

 

Delkin offers rugged embedded storage for industrial applications as well as high-quality commercial grade solutions. Contact us today and let our customer support team help you make the right selection for your design.

 

Contact

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Related Posts

Dashcard- Delkin Devices
Customer Success Stories: Industrial microSD for Rugged Operating Conditions

  Flash memory and storage SSD solutions have revolutionized the way industries develop and operate....

Delkin Flash Storage
Understanding NAND Flash-Based SSD Drives and the Flash Controller

  When you’re selecting industrial embedded storage for your application, having a thorough understanding of...

Transportation
Top Benefits of Industrial Flash Storage for Transportation Applications

  What Are the Top Reasons to Use Industrial Flash Storage to Power Transportation Applications?...

Delkin UTILITY ENDURANCE microSD Card
microSD Cards, the Industrial Applications Market, and One-of-a-Kind Storage Solutions for Rugged Environments

  The industrial storage industry has a unique set of demands when it comes to...

Spotlight: Delkin Customer Engineering Success

   Delkin Devices doesn’t only feature state-of-the-art, USA-designed flash memory and storage SSD cards for...

Industrial SLC SD for Automotive Applications

  When it comes to flash storage solutions for industrial OEM automotive applications, such as...

mSATA SSD
FAQs on Industrial mSATA SSDs

  The mSATA, otherwise known as the mini-SATA, is a slim drive format designed for...

Take a Closer Look at Embedded Memory Systems

  Embedded memory systems do excellent behind-the-scenes work, but at a conscious level, it’s not...

Life Cycle Management- SMART Commnands
Our Technical Success Stories: A Look at SMART Triggers

  No matter how high-quality or well-optimized your embedded storage is, it will eventually reach...

S316APG49-U3000-3 - SD - microSD - 16GB - MLC
Your MLC MicroSD FAQs, Answered

  Whether you’re searching for a reliable and high-quality flash storage solution for a commercial...