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At the heart of every STEC flash memory device is a state-of-the-art memory controller. Analogous to a computer processor (with embedded core logic), the flash controller manages the interface to the host device (e.g. PC) and flash memory array. Proprietary firmware (e.g. software) is programmed into the flash controller to assist in the interface to the host system as well as management of the flash array.
Each controller is carefully designed to meet the needs of target OEM and industrial applications, whether in a networking application with heavy small-sector reads and writes or a data center application with high inputs/outputs per second (IOps) demands. Not only is performance important in these applications but high quality and reliability is also critical in many mission-critical type applications such as in-flight data recorders.
STEC designs and manufactures each controller to the highest quality standards and incorporates the latest and most relevant technologies to deliver the highest value to OEM and industrial customers. Controller design becomes even more important when considering the many specialized host systems and applications that require customized firmware support to optimize performance and reliability in the given application. Similarly (as with most technology), the rate of innovation and change amongst flash memory suppliers continues to increase and the flash controllers need to be flexible enough to change in step with them. STEC controllers are extremely well positioned to manage custom applications and rapid flash technology changes.
Another important element of controller design is how well it manages the flash memory array. Many host applications can be very hard on flash memory devices so it is important that the controller not only manage the data with accuracy but also the flow of data to the flash memory array so as to maximize flash memory's endurance. Endurance and data integrity are functions of the controller and firmware, specifically in the areas of error-checking and correction (ECC), wear-leveling and block management.
STEC has taken all of this into account and has architected its controllers to provide customers with the highest data reliability and flash memory endurance available in the market.STEC has taken all of this into account and has architected its controllers to provide customers with the highest data reliability and flash memory endurance available in the market.
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