Delkin Blog

Single-layer cell (SLC) solid state drives (SSDs) are extremely popular, even though OEMs can also choose from multi-layer cell (MLC) and triple-layer cell (TLC) flash storage. SLC SSD drives are an excellent choice for a wide range of industry applications, including healthcare, embedded automotive solutions, aerospace, and military.

The Remarkable Longevity of SLC Designs

Single layer cell technology has a well-deserved reputation for longevity and reliability, making it the ideal choice for a wide range of enterprise applications. SLC is designed to store one bit of data on a single cell. The bits are stored with one of two voltage levels: one or zero. It’s important to note that all types of flash memory will degrade over time—each time a voltage is applied, the transistor’s gate traps a charge, and the memory cell undergoes a permanent alteration. A memory cell can only endure a finite number of program/erase (P/E) cycles before it will inevitably fail. However, SLC SSD drives are so widely used because they feature the longest possible lifetime and are able to endure the most P/E cycles before failure. On average, an SLC SSD can handle about 100,000 P/E cycles.

A Look at the Features of SLC SSD Drives

Although the main focus of SLC SSD designs is on longevity, they also offer robust data capacities. On the lower end of the scale, an SLC SSD drive can store 16GB of data. OEMs and developers who require greater capacities can choose from devices with capacities of 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB. Industrial grade SLC technology also offers rugged reliability, with generous operating and storage temperature ranges. This feature is particularly beneficial in enterprise applications that expose the SSD to challenging environments, such as the automotive and aerospace fields. An SLC SSD can also be relied upon to withstand significant shock and vibration.

High-performance SLC SSD drives are available from Delkin, with capacities ranging from 16GB to 256GB. These rugged data storage solutions offer versatility where it’s needed most, with operating temperature capabilities ranging from -40 to 85 degrees Celsius and a storage temperature range of -50 to 100 degrees Celsius. Get in touch with Delkin today if you have any questions.