SanDisk Ups the FlashDrive Ante

Low Power System Ideal for Vertical Application

SanDisk Corp, a leading manufacturer of mobile storage systems, recently introduced the world’s highest capacity Flash storage device. The new IDE FlashDrive has a capacity of 240MB and yet retains the industry standard 1.8 inch form factor. The 240MB FlashDrive, which is based on 64Mbit Flash semiconductor technology, will primarily be targeted at the OEM market.

“The new IDE FlashDrive has a capacity of 240MB and yet retains the industry standard 1.8 inch form factor.”

The FlashDrive offers several advantages over other storage devices and is applicable for use in a variety of situations. For instance, FlashDrive is considerably more rugged than rotating magnetic hard disks, and can be used in harsh environments that is likely expose the device to bumps or drops. FlashDrive carries a shock rating of 1,000 Gs, equivalent to a six foot drop to the floor. FlashDrive is also capable of operating under greater temperature and humidity extremes.

With the new card, SanDisk is finally able to address one of Flash’s most pressing shortcomings, namely storage capacity. And aside from the issues of portability and reliability, FlashDrive offers an additional advantages over hard drive systems: lower power consumption. SanDisk claims that FlashDrive consumes less than 10 percent of the power needed to operate a hard drive.

One important consideration remains however: cost. The new 240MB FlashDrive is expected to be available in June with a price of $1,699 for high-volume OEM purchases. Portability, ruggedness, and lower power consumption characteristics still carry a premium in the mobile computing world.