Flash memory and SSD. The difference between consumer and industrial grades

Durability and reliability

Temperature range

Depending on the intended use of the device and the environment in which it operates, components are characterised by certain standard parameters. For example, consumer devices such as desktops, laptops and smartphones are usually equipped with memory that operates in a temperature range of 0°C to 70°C. Industrial applications often operate under very different conditions. Specialist equipment may operate in environments where there are large temperature fluctuations or where it is constantly cold or hot. The same applies to humidity, where high levels can adversely affect electronics. Industrial grade memory is designed to work efficiently and reliably even when exposed to these factors. This is made possible by the use of specialised, appropriately sorted components, from the PCB to the passive components to the controller or memory chips. Flash memory for industrial applications uses the additional distinction of temperature grade. In most cases, the customers chooses one of two solutions: the first, which can operate in temperature ranges of -25°C to 85°C, or the second, designed for the most demanding applications, guaranteeing operation in the -40°C to 85°C range.

Reliability index

The most commonly used parameter in the electronic sector to determine the average time between failures is the MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures), usually expressed in hours. The higher the value, the more reliable the equipment. In other words, the MTBF determines how often, statistically, a system or component will fail. Industrial products are characterised by a higher MTBF value, typically from 2 million hours and above, compared to commercial products whose MTBF is usually around 1,500,000 hours.

Construction quality and resistance to external factors

DRAM modules, SSDs or Flash memory for consumer applications typically operate in a safe environment, i.e. one that is not exposed to the extremely low or high temperatures, shocks and intensive vibrations. The opposite are conditions in which industrial memory is often operated – these can be locations with high exposure to sunlight, moisture, vibration, shock, radiation or pollution. For this reason, it is necessary to use components or safeguards in production that ensure the correct operation of the memory in the target device, which are not found in consumer applications. Solutions that increase the resistance of devices to harsh conditions include confromal coating, anti-corrosion coating, gold finger or side fill.

Flash memory technologies

SSDs, SD/microSD cards, eMMC, USB Flash drives, CFast or CFexpress are all based on NAND Flash memory. This in turn is divided into several types. They differ in the number of bits that can be stored in each memory cell. This characteristic translates into the key differences between NAND types, which are endurance, capacity and manufacturing cost. Based on the structure and the way information is stored in NAND Flash memory cells, memory chips can be divided into:

• SLC (Single-Level Cell) – one bit of information is written to one cell. SLC memory has the longest read and write life cycle. SLC can be found in the most demanding industrial and server solutions.
• MLC (Multi-Level Cell) – two bits of information are written to a single cell. This technology allows higher capacities than SLC, but is less rugged and slower. Many consumers choose MLC because it offers a good balance between price, performance and endurance.
• pSLC (Pseudo-Single-Level Cell) – offers a compromise between SLC and MLC, providing higher endurance than MLC but at a lower cost than SLC. It also has one bit per cell. This is achieved by reprogramming the MLC memory to simulate the operation of an SLC.
• TLC (Triple-Level Cell) – three bits of information are written to a single cell. Vertical TLC chips (3D TLC) are already on the market and are gaining the confidence of industrial customers as their quality improves.
• QLC (Quad-Level Cell) – four bits of information are written to a single cell. This technology is unacceptable for industrial applications due to its lower endurance. However, it is an economical choice for users who are looking for an affordable data storage solution. The use of QLC memory in NAND Flash consumer products is becoming increasingly popular.

In summary, 3D TLC and QLC solutions are predominantly used in consumer electronics, offering higher capacities at lower cost, but with lower endurance and reliability compared to SLC, MLC and pSLC, which are used in industrial applications.

Features and functionality

Goodram Industrial products use the latest technology to ensure reliability up to a certain TBW (Total Bytes Written) value. These are the most important features of memory for industrial use.

Industrial grade

• Advanced error correction code (ECC) and wear leveling mechanism: SSDs and Flash memory are equipped with ECC and wear-leveling algorithms to extend their lifespan and ensure data integrity.
• Fixed Bill of Materials (BOM): Ensures consistency of product performance and quality. Each unit in the batch has the same components, ensuring reliability in subsequent production cycles and deliveries to customers.
• Product Management: Includes comprehensive technical documentation, market monitoring and customised solutions to ensure long-term support and stability.

Consumer grade

• Basic error correction and wear levelling: Although consumer grade equipment includes error correction and wear levelling, these features are typically less advanced than in industrial grade products.
• Variable bill of materials: Components may vary between production batches.
• Standard product lifecycle: Consumer products typically have shorter lifecycles with less emphasis on long-term support and product management.

Applications

As this article shows, depending on the type of Flash memory, it can be used in a wide range of applications and devices, depending on its capacity, endurance and speed. Let’s take a look at the industrial and consumer applications of NAND Flash memory.

Industrial grade

• Harsh environments: Ideal for use in industrial automation, aerospace, military and other applications where conditions are extreme and reliability is crucial.
• Critical systems: Suitable for systems that require high reliability and long-term support, such as medical devices, telecommunications infrastructure and data centres.

Consumer grade

• Consumer electronics: Designed for everyday use in devices such as smartphones, laptops and digital cameras where the operating environment is controlled and less demanding.
• General Purpose: Suitable for applications where cost efficiency is more important than extreme reliability and durability.

The choice between consumer and industrial grade Flash and SSDs depends largely on the application. Industrial-grade products offer superior durability, reliability and consistency, making them essential in harsh and demanding environments. Consumer-grade products, on the other hand, provide cost-effective solutions for everyday electronics, balancing performance with affordability. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right type of memory for your specific needs.