Delkin Blog

Compact Flash, or CF, memory cards offer high-endurance flash storage for a wide range of devices. Industrial grade CF cards are designed to operate in extreme conditions, including environments in which temperatures fluctuate or shock and vibration are higher than normal. For industrial applications, choosing an industrial CF card rather one designed for consumer use is critical. Only with industrial grade memory can you be sure that the storage will work in rugged conditions. Is industrial grade CF flash storage the right pick for your device? Here is what you need to know.

SLC Flash

Industrial grade CF storage features SLC flash technology. SLC, or single-level cell, describes flash storage in which one bit of data is stored per cell. When one bit of data is written to each cell, there is a lower risk of an error occurring during write operations. In addition, both read and write operations are extremely fast—faster than with any other form of flash memory. Additionally, storing one bit of data per cell creates less wear and tear on the memory card, so SLC flash offers a longer lifespan than other flash memory grades.

Commercial grade CF storage typically has MLC, or multi-level cell, flash technology. With this kind of flash, two bits of data are stored on each cell. Although this kind of memory is appropriate for some applications, it runs slower and has a shorter lifespan than SLC flash memory. It is also more prone to potential failures, making it the wrong choice for industrial applications that store critical data.

Extended Temperature Ranges

Industrial grade CF cards are ideal for use in environments in which temperatures are extreme. These CF cards can be used in temperatures ranging from -40 degrees C to 85 degrees C without any loss of function. They also work in environments in which temperatures can change rapidly.

Commercial CF cards are more sensitive to temperatures and temperature changes. As a result, they are not recommended for devices used in industries such as healthcare, automation, and transportation.

Locked BOM

The bill of materials, or BOM, for industrial grade CF cards is locked. This means that the critical components of a memory card will not be changed as long as its product number is active. If the design is changed, then a new product number will be issued. This feature prevents industrial applications from experiencing in-the-field failures caused by unexpected device changes.

Delkin offers industrial grade CF cards in a variety of capacities. If you need CF memory for an industrial application, contact our product team today.

ORDER DELKIN INDUSTRIAL FLASH STORAGE TODAY through our distribution partner Newark.