SSD (for Solid-State Drive) revolutionized the PC field. It seemed that hard drives had reached a performance limit set by physics. Pushing them into the void had turned them into a burden for the computer. It has freed computers from this ballast. It has also advanced their evolution. As a result, we now have computers with better performance and optimization. Installing an SSD is now the best way to boost your computer’s performance.
What is an SSD?
Most likely, if you are reading this article and thinking about buying SSD, you will know roughly what it is. Even if you don’t know, we are going to tell you. SSDs use a cluster of memory chips called NAND Flash. These are the same as those in RAM and USB drives. Unlike traditional hard drives, SSDs don’t use superimposed magnetic disks.
When using this type of media as memory, mobile elements are not used. So, they are much faster than conventional ones.
Improve the performance of your computer.
The advantages are so obvious that it’s almost unfair to compare both memory systems, even though we did it in the article above.
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On a computer with an SSD, not a magnetic disk, the speed of the startup stands out most.
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Since the computer starts, the operating system’s startup time drops. But, it speeds up even more when the programs and files start almost instantly.
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This increase in speed is due to the absence of mechanical elements of the SSD disks. The hard disk must signal the reader’s head to read or write a batch of data to a position on the disk. This must guide the reader’s arm to a point on the turntable to perform the operation.
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The SSD reduces this to an electrical impulse that carries out the assigned task.
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This minimizes the SSD’s wait (latency) times.
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Users notice a speed boost when replacing a hard drive with an SSD. In laptops, the battery lasts longer and there is no “scratching” of hard drives. It’s better.
Architecture of memories
Since its start, SSD memory technology has evolved. It has changed the organization and structure of the memory chips that store data.
The SSD disks’ NAND Flash memories consist of small, aligned cells that store data. The first SSDs used Single-Layer Cell (SLC) architecture. They store only 1 bit per cell. This means that writing the info in a 10 Kb file needed many cells that occupied physical space. So, there was a limit to the number of cells. For this reason, the first SSD drives had very little capacity.
MLC (Multi-Level Cell) architecture doubles cell capacity and allows 4 states. This has cut SSD memory prices. But it may increase errors due to increased data density per cell. Manufacturers are developing Triple Level Cell (TLC) technology. It triples storage density, so it has higher capacity but slower read speeds. Tests are needed to compare these systems, as they are typically not noticeable in normal use.
Connecting the SSDs
The SSD’s connection type is key to its most performance. But, it’s up to the computer’s motherboard.
If your computer is new, it will likely have SATA3 connectors. They allow for 6 GB/s data transfer. These connections have the bandwidth to fully use the hard disk’s read and write speeds.
Replace an old computer’s disk with an SSD for a significant upgrade. But, it will likely have SATA II connectors. This could limit the transfer speed and underutilize the SSD.
Even if this is your case, switch to an SSD. It is a huge speed increase over traditional hard drives. Even if you hit the 3 GB limit of the SATA2 connection, you will be satisfied with the improvement. The disk can go faster, but it won’t matter.
SSD format
The SSD’s arrival and the end of rotating disks have opened the door to new storage formats with different connections and sizes.
The most common SSD type is the 2.5-inch form factor. It matches the size of the drives when mounted in laptops.
This 2.5″ SSD disk format has three thicknesses: 5 mm, 7 mm, and 9.5 mm. This is important for laptop installs where every millimeter counts. An error in thickness may mean the component won’t fit.
So before buying the new SSD, make sure it’s the same thickness as the one you removed.
If the disk is for a desktop, you will not have many problems. Most desktops have slots and shelves for this disk size. If yours doesn’t have these slots, you can add an adapter to your purchase to install the SSD in a 3.5″ slot.
Also, some shape changes will help laptops and all-in-ones. These are the so-called M.2 or mSATA disks.
These types of disks are the ultimate expression of SSD miniaturization.