Delkin Blog

SATA is a popular SSD choice for industrial embedded systems that need storage for data, applications, and operating systems that won’t fail, even in rugged environments. Because of the varied system characteristics of these applications, SATA SSD modules are available in a number of different form factors. A range of sizes also allow SATA SSD modules to be used in applications with only a small amount of space. Here is a look at some of the most popular SATA SSD module choices for industrial use.

mSATA

mSATA, or mini-SATA, is a smaller version of the full-sized SATA SSD that can be used in devices with space constraints, such as netbook and notebook systems. These embedded SATA modules are designed with pads at the end, which allow them to be mated to the female connectors in the host system. Despite the small design of mSATA SSD modules, users get high performance and uncompromising reliability. They are even reliable in the face of power losses.

CFast

CFast offers a combination of the compatibility of CompactFlash with the speed of SATA interfaces. The CompactFlash Association outlines the specifications for CFast modules, so they have similarities to the familiar CompactFlash form factor. However, CFast SATA SSD modules feature a smaller design, so they are more widely usable in the small spaces typical of modern industrial applications. By using the SATA interface, this module is able to offer faster operating speeds than standard CompactFlash designs. The demand for CFast is growing, particularly in the industrial market, since it combines compatibility, reliability, and speed with a small size.

2.5” SATA

The 2.5” SATA SSD module is ideal for industrial designs that don’t require a small size for embedded storage. This full-size SATA SSD offers the reliability and speed associated with all SATA designs and can be easily integrated into most applications. Although the 2.5” SATA is available in both commercial and industrial grade designs, most industrial grade system designers will want to stick to the SLC NAND flash version. This is because it offers the reliability associated with SLC storage, as well as the features designers expect from this grade of product, including a controlled BOM and full customization options.

If you have questions about choosing a SATA SSD module for your industrial application, contact Delkin. Our product team can guide you through the choices and explain customization options, such as additional testing to find a device-specific solution for your needs, as well as unique formatting, over-provisioning, and labelling.