IBM Adds 2.5-Inch 128GB and 256GB 6Gb SATA MLC SSDs

The new 128 GB and 256 GB SSDs from IBM Corp. employ cost-effective MLC NAND technology to bring an affordable, but performance-driven solution for read-intensive applications.

The new SSD drives will each be available in a 2.5-inch SFF with both simple-swap and hot-swap options.

These SSDs use a single-chip controller with a SATA interface on the system side and n-channels of Micron NAND Flash internally. Packaged in an HDD replacement enclosure, these SSDs integrate easily in existing storage infrastructures. They are targeted at applications that require high I/O performance in random read operations in applications such as web or video serving, or content delivery.

Providing that additional peace of mind, the 128 GB and 256 GB MLC SSDs are covered under IBM warranty. These drives carry a 1-year limited warranty, or when installed in a System x server, these drives assume system’s base warranty. Solid-state devices do have finite write or P/E cycles and are listed as Total Bytes Written (TBW).

Features and functions of SSDs for IBM System x:

2.5-inch industry standard form factor
Utilization of industry-leading 25 nm MLC
Cost-effective MLC NAND technology with high read performance
MLC SATA drive specifically designed to fulfill customer needs in the entry space
Enterprise Data Path Protection
Energy-saving 2.5 – 3.5 watt power consumption per drive
The absence of moving parts reduces potential failure points in the server.

Key prerequisites
IBM System x or BladeCenter system with SATA capability.

Planned availability date
February 28, 2012