Advantech Introduces SQF-SD flash-based solid-state drive

　　The Industrial Automation Group of Advantech expands its SQFlash range with a new SATA Disk on Module (DOM) model called SQF-SDM. This new SATA-7 pin DOM utilizes a SATA interface in a vertical module configuration. SQF-SDM provides excellent shock and vibration resistance and is an ideal and reliable storage solution for industrial PCs, embedded systems, gaming machines, POS, medical devices, automation systems, and networking infrastructure.

　　High Reliability Controller and Flash

　　The SQF-SDM is the smallest flash-based solid-state drive available and uses SLC NAND flash memory, making it ideal as an embedded SSD solution. SSD comprises of flash memory that stores data and a controller that controls the flash memory. SQF-SDM uses the SSD controller developed by TDK which provides high-speed, high-reliability storage functions. The TDK controller spreads the wear-leveling across the entire drive allowing all blocks to participate and distributes the data so that all blocks are worn evenly. SQF-SDM SLC NAND flash memory module is rated for up to 5,000,000 program/erase cycles.

　　Value-added Security Features Enhance Applications

　　The SQF-SDM provides security features designed specifically for embedded industrial applications. The Flash Lock utility can lock the SQFlash to a corresponding platform so it cannot be accessed by another platform. Flash Security ID can check with the API which helps protect and prevent intellectual property from being copied. Life Monitoring can check the health of the flash, provide an early-warning mechanism to the user, and the Emergency Erase utility can quickly erase all data and control firmware at any critical moment.

　　The SQF-SDM, with standard 7-pin interface, can easily be installed into any board with a SATA interface. Also, compared with most SATA storage devices which require an additional power cable for voltage supply, an optional SQF-SDM has an internal VCC supply through pin 7 to overcome this problem. The SQF-SDM is also designed with a hook mechanism to increase vibration resistance up to 1500G (peak/0.5 ms) and help users who need a highly stable connection to integrate with their applications better.

　　The SQF-SDM is an ideal and reliable storage solution for all kinds of applications and it is fully compatible with all major operating systems such as Windows XP, Linux, Win CE, DOS, and VxWorks. The SQF-SDM comes in 2 to 32 GB capacities.

　　Advantech Corporation, Industrial Automation Group - Founded in 1983, the Industrial Automation Group of Advantech Corporation is a pioneer in eAutomation technology; combining connectivity, flexibility and ruggedness with today's most reliable PC-based automation technologies. Product offerings include: Open HMI platforms, Industrial Ethernet, Automation Controllers, Automation Software, Embedded Automation Computers, Distributed I/O Modules, Plug-in I/O, and Industrial Communication solutions for a wide array of industries. With more than 20 years experience in providing a full range of products to different vertical markets, the Industrial Automation Group is proving to be a globally leading Automation Product and Services provider. US operations for the Industrial Automation Group are based in Cincinnati, OH.