Delkin Blog

Like most parts of modern life, security and lighting systems have gone high-tech. Whether for home users with residential security needs or commercial or government locations that contain highly sensitive information and materials, today’s security and lighting systems involve much more than a simple alarm that sounds when a boundary is breached. Today, video cameras, smart lighting, and other systems not only have to operate flawlessly, but they also have to keep data safe and secure.

In addition to an increase in the technological capabilities of security and lighting systems, today’s systems are also following another trend in technology: smaller sizes. Modern security control and lighting systems are smaller than ever before. This means that the flash storage used in them has to be designed for a small form factor. That is where industrial microSD cards enter the picture. These flash storage cards offer industrial grade reliability in the familiar SD format—but in a reduced size that is appropriate for systems that have small dimensions but still demand powerful memory. Here is a closer look at how industrial microSD flash storage is making an impact on security and lighting systems.

What is microSD flash storage?

SD cards are one of the most recognized and widely used forms of flash memory on the market. They were launched in 2000 by the Secure Digital Association, which is a nonprofit organization that was formed by three major names in the digital storage market: SanDisk, Toshiba, and Panasonic. The cards were designed to meet some very specific needs that were emerging in the tech market for embedded memory that was reliable, small in size, and compatible across a range of devices. Since then, SD cards have gone through a number of redesigns in accordance with priorities determined by the Secure Digital Association. Any card that is called an SD card, regardless of the manufacturer, has to meet the specifications set by the Secure Digital Association.

One aspect of the evolution of the SD card was the diversification into different sizes and formats. One significant design change was the introduction of the microSD card. These cards were introduced to the market in 2005 and are the smallest version of SD cards available. Since they were first introduced, the memory capacity of microSD cards has increased dramatically. The cards are also available in a variety of different speed classes, and maintain the same performance standards as full-size SD cards.

Why is industrial grade storage important?

Not all microSD flash cards are industrial grade. When it comes to cards used in security and lighting systems—particularly in commercial and government establishments—getting the reliability of industrial grade flash is critical.

One of the most important features of industrial grade flash is that it is designed with single-level cell, or SLC, flash memory. SLC flash memory is flash in which one bit of data is stored on each cell. This design provides the highest possible level of data security, along with the fastest possible speeds for read and write operations. When security footage is being recorded or a smart lighting system operation needs to be executed, speed is of the essence, making SLC NAND flash the right fit. Similarly, safely storing any kind of security data is critical, so choosing flash memory with the highest degree of reliability is crucial.

Industrial microSD has other advantages as well. SLC flash memory has a significantly longer lifespan than other grades of flash memory. It also comes with a locked BOM, which means that none of the components that could affect device compatibility will be changed without advanced notice to the customer and the creation of a new product number. Both of these factors allow a particular model of industrial microSD card to remain compatible for as long as possible. This helps to prevent unanticipated failures when microSD cards are changed. It also enables the device designer to manage the lifespan of the device and anticipate when cards are likely to need replacement. This reduces the likelihood of unanticipated downtime for security and lighting systems.

Why are industrial microSD cards ideal for security and lighting systems?

Typically, security systems need to have 24/7 uptime, which means that they are recording a massive amount of high-quality video. Although SD cards are recognized for their ability to store high-resolution videos and images, microSD cards that are designed for the consumer market—such as those used in digital cameras and personal-use video cameras—cannot meet the storage demands of advanced security systems. Industrial microSD cards, however, can perform these tasks easily, ensuring that security is not compromised by poor quality video, interruptions in recording, or data loss.

Whether they are integrated into security systems or are independent smart systems, lighting systems also require the improved capabilities of industrial grade microSD cards. Lighting systems need memory with low power consumption, which microSD cards provide. They also require storage that won’t be affected by higher than normal levels of heat. Industrial microSD cards offer an extended temperature range. All of these capabilities are available in a storage device that is small enough to fit into smart lighting systems in residential, commercial, and government properties.

At Delkin, we know that there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution for embedded memory. Every device comes with its own set of demands and challenges. Our customer support team is accustomed to working with clients who need storage solutions for complex systems in rugged environments with high data security needs. Let our team help you consider your options for embedded memory, from industrial microSD cards to industrial embedded USB flash drives. We’re ready to answer your questions and help you find the right fit for your needs and budget. Get in touch with us today for additional information, engineering samples, and more.

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