Delkin Blog

Embedded computing—computer systems that perform a specific task within a larger system—demands adequate storage for optimum performance. The applications of embedded computing range from personal devices to heavy-load industrial aviation and telecommunication networks, so industrial embedded storage needs vary significantly across systems. When selecting an industrial embedded storage product, consider the operating environment and the durability of the system as a whole when evaluating options.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Industrial Embedded Storage

Although the specific needs for industrial embedded storage are highly variable, finding the right storage system comes down to a few factors. Here’s what to consider when choosing embedded storage:

• Costs of the storage system and embedded computing system
• Durability of the embedded computing component
• Durability of the whole computer system
• Storage and operating temperature requirements
• Operational requirements/operating environments

It is also necessary to consider the viability of embedded storage updates. By choosing industrial embedded storage rather than commercial products, you can count on the stability of the firmware, flash, and controller and avoid the disruption of the frequent updates that come with commercial products.

Industrial Embedded Storage Options

There are many options for embedded storage, so finding the right fit for your network and budget is easy. Here is a closer look at some of the available embedded storage solutions:

• Industrial SD Memory Cards—reliable NAND flash storage for industrial applications that use the Secure Digital interface.
  • 128MB – 32MB capacities
  • SLC flash (MLC flash available in the utility version
  • SD 3.0, Class 10 or SD 2.0, Class 6 speeds
  • -40 to 85 degrees C operating temp
  • 10 year data retention
  • 25MB/s read and 21MS/s write speeds
  • , SDNC, microSD, and SDXC formats available

• PATA—Evolved from IDE and replaced by SATA, but still in use in foundational technology in many industrial embedded storage spaces, thanks to the based of legacy hosts.
  • PCMCIA cards with 128MD – 4GB capacities
  • -40 to 85 degrees C operating temp
  • 10 MB/s read and 6 MS/s write speeds

• Industrial CF—CompactFlash memory cards with high-endurance SLC NAND Flash and optional MLC NAND Flash, based on the PATA interface.
  • 128 MB – 4GB capacity
  • -40 to 85 degrees C operating temp
  • 40 MB/s read and 30MB/s write speeds
  • > 2 million MTBF (hours)

• Industrial mSATA SSD—created a drive format for netbooks, laptops, and other slim systems that need solid state storage that is smaller than a 2.5” SS with easy mechanical integration and multiple configurations. Can be used as a boot drive or for critical data.
  • 4GB – 64GB capacity
  • -40 to 85 degrees C operating temp
  • 145MB/S read and 130MB/s write speeds

• Industrial Embedded USB—also known as eUSB, offers small storage for hosts that cannot accommodate SSD or HDD form factors, with multiple 10-pin heads available to match processing boards.
  • 128MB – 32GB capacity
  • -40 to 85 degrees C operating temp
  • 32MS/s read and 30MB/s write speeds
  • > 2million MTBF (hours) when operated at 0-25 degrees C

Delkin is committed to helping industrial customers find customized industrial embedded storage solutions that meet their system needs as well as their budgets. Our controlled bill of materials means that we guarantee your firmware, flash, and controllers will not need to be upgraded as long as the parts numbers are active, and we offer comprehensive customer support on all of our products. Contact us to see how we can build a customized embedded storage solution for your needs.