SanDisk Announces Smallest 64GB Embedded SSD

Size is one of the most common themes in the tech industry. Usually, the smaller a device can be made without sacrificing too much performance, the better. This is especially true with regards to memory, as the physical size of memory can make or break the user experience. The memory business is also subject to rapid change, as physical size, speed, and capacity are never at a stand still. Following that trend, flash memory manufacturer SanDisk has released the fastest embedded Solid-State Drive (SSD) in its size.

Just how small is the SSD? With dimensions of 16 x 20 x 1.85 mm and weighing in at less than a gram, it is roughly the size of a postage stamp. Using conventional Serial ATA (SATA), the SSD is actually an Integrated SSD (ISSD) that can be embedded into other devices. Therefore, it’s not an external drive or a flash memory card, but is an actual integrated circuit (IC) that can be soldered directly onto a motherboard. It should be noted that you won’t actually be able to go out and buy one of these, however, this same technology might soon be introduced into many different types of devices. Some of those devices include smartphones, tablet computers, netbooks, and even routers.

In terms of capacity, the drive ranges from 4GB all the way to 64GB. Taking a step away from conventional drives, the embedded drive approach seems more promising, especially in mobile applications. The tradeoff between capacity and size is really unbeatable. Normally, 64GB SSD drives come in lengths between 50-76 mm long. In comparison, the ISSD has a length of only 16mm, making it almost 4 times smaller. Of course, when comparing disk drive sizes, there’s absolutely no contest. A 64GB hard-disk would dwarf an ISSD. Not to mention, there is a significant weight reduction as well compared to other drives making ISSD a perfect replacement.