Combo SSD: A Flexible and High-Performance Storage Solution for IPC Systems

Challenge

With advancements in CPU technology, whether to support micro SD cards has become a key consideration in industrial computer (IPC) design. Intel’s Alder/Elkhart Lake CPUs, which support OS boot functions via both SATA and USB, have increased the demand for integrated storage solutions. To streamline workflows, clients are increasingly leaning toward solutions that meet multiple storage needs in one. In response to the trend of IPC system miniaturization, the need for flexible, all-in-one storage solutions is also on the rise.

Customer Requirements

• Compact Design: The client needed the flexibility to decide whether to use a micro SD card based on actual needs and to facilitate card replacement.
• Improved Heat Dissipation: Inadequate heat dissipation within the IPC system could affect stability and lifespan, necessitating improvements in thermal management.
• Networking (Fanless Systems): Different roles for micro SD and SSD, ensuring long-term stability in low-power environments.

Solution and Technology

To meet these needs, we developed the CSD3K0E series Combo SSD, featuring a new patented design that integrates micro SD and SSD slots, allowing clients to flexibly configure the micro SD card as required. This design greatly enhances system flexibility and compatibility, while effectively addressing potential transmission conflicts between USB and SATA channels.

• Integrated Design: Combining storage spaces saves the limited space in IPC systems.
• New Enclosure Design: A metal housing replaces the original plastic casing, significantly improving heat dissipation and addressing thermal management issues in IPC systems.
• Flexible Configuration Management: Clients have the option to configure micro SD cards, which facilitates easy management and is cost-effective.
• Networking (Fanless Systems): The micro SD card handles large data storage, while the SSD is designated for system boot, ensuring stability.

Application

The CSD3K0E series Combo SSD fully meets the needs for compact design and flexibility by integrating micro SD technology, providing a high-efficiency, cost-effective solution for customers. With varied capacities ranging from 64GB to 512GB for both SSD and micro SD, and the option for TLC or pSLC NAND Flash technology, it offers enhanced durability with a Program/Erase (P/E) cycle of up to 30,000, significantly increasing card endurance and stability.

As an integrated storage solution, the CSD3K0E series Combo SSD not only meets the needs of miniaturized IPC systems but also adapts flexibly to the demands of fields like networking and gaming. Its metal casing provides exceptional heat dissipation, while the flexible combination of micro SD and SSD offers efficient, reliable storage and system boot support, making it an essential component in modern industrial computer systems.