Swissbit introduces small, high-reliability PCIe M.2 SSD modules for industrial applications

Swissbit has announced the N-20m2 SSD module, which is very small in size at M.2 2230 but is capable of delivering the performance of a high-speed PCIe SSD. The module incorporates Swissbit's recently introduced EN-20 PCI-BGA device to minimize PCB space requirements while offering multiple storage capacities of up to 480 GB while conforming to the PCI-3.1 4x and NVMe-1.3 standards. The storage solution is aimed at small embedded systems and routers, for which the N-20m2 is the ideal boot device. In addition to the M.2 2230 size, 2242 and 2280 standard sizes are also available.

This new product family uses industrial grade 3D-NAND and can support ambient temperatures from -40°C to +85°C. The SSD module combines a high grade NAND flash memory chip, a powerful PCIe controller, and firmware for demanding applications. The PCIe 4x interface operates according to the latest PCI-3.1 standard and is backward compatible with 1x and 2x, providing up to 1600 MB/s continuous read speed and 770 MB/s continuous write speed. Random read and write performance reached 145,000/130,000 IOPS, nearly double that of SATA SSDS.

Robustness of the product

In order to achieve low power consumption without sacrificing performance, the new Swissbit SSD module N-20m2 uses the HMB (Host Memory Buffer) function, which uses system DRAM memory to store flash address translation tables. Intelligent temperature management ensures long-term stability of the controller, maintaining speed even at maximum operating temperatures of 85°C. Other reliability and security features include end-to-end data path protection (ETEP), AES-256 encryption, LDPC error correction with full-page fault recovery, and sudden power failure protection. In high-temperature environments, data service management provides additional protection for stored data. To ensure long-term mechanical stability, the N-20m2 uses a 30-microinch gold-plated connector.

Designed for extended service life

The NVMe protocol makes efficient use of bandwidth by using a native command set of non-volatile memory, resulting in ultra-low latency.
This enables Swissbit to deliver a high-performance, highly reliable and economical true industrial-grade SSD with a durability of up to 1 DWPD (full write times per day). For higher durability requirements, the N-26m2 can achieve 10 times the write volume in full pSLC mode.

Solutions for demanding markets

"The N-20m2 is our purpose-built solution for the latest PCI-based industrial and network communication systems that require improved performance without sacrificing stability, heat dissipation and durability. With the EN-20 BGA as the cornerstone, our designers have created a module that is small in size but powerful and robust. Comprehensive, detailed SMART information combined with our monitoring tools makes it easy for users to monitor the useful life status of SSDS and schedule maintenance. You get a product that meets the requirements of the next generation of IoT systems." Roger Griesemer, General Manager of Storage Solutions at Swissbit AG, explains.