Flash memory solid state disks

Flash memory is increasingly being used as a storage medium for mobile devices such as mobile phones, PMPs, and UMPCs because of low power consumption, fast random access, and high shock & vibration resistance. In this talk, first I will explain the basics and current trends of NAND flash memory, the type of flash memory used for storage applications. Second, I will introduce the concept of a flash memory solid state disk (SSD) that provides an interface identical to that of hard disk drive (HDD) out of flash memory. Third, I will explain the motivations, design, implementation, and performance evaluation of the Hydra solid state disk that our research group has developed. Finally, I will conclude with future research directions on flash memory in general and solid state disks in particular.