Independent advice for evaluating and implementing solid-state technologies
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In a relatively short time, solid-state storage has become a viable alternative for enterprise storage applications. It offers far superior performance that magnetic media while using much less power and creating little heat. Solid-state storage is, however, still considerable more expensive that spinning disk, so a cost-effective approach to implementation is required.
In this seminar, we’ll cover the key solid-state technologies and the specs that users need to know, along with the various implementation alternatives.
Session Descriptions
Part One: SSD Technology and Data Placement Strategies
In part one, Dennis Martin will explore the different types of solid-state technology that are used and discuss the use cases for each. He will delve into the physics of these technologies and compare them to spinning hard disk drives, and also discuss the performance and capacity characteristics of each. After examining the technology, he will describe data placement techniques, including caching and tiering, and explain how each of these work. Some solid-state storage products include features such as compression and involve other methods to help squeeze the most efficiency from these technologies. Topics addressed will also include:
- A brief definition of solid-state storage, including DRAM, NVRAM and NAND flash
- The three types of NAND flash—SLC, MLC and eMLC—including performance and endurance characteristics
- Key ways solid-state differs from conventional magnetic media
- Using auto-tiering to use solid-state storage cost effectively
- How built-in compression algorithms can lower the cost per GB ratio of solid-state storage
Part Two: SSD Form Factors and Implementation Alternatives
In part two, Dennis will focus on the specific implementation alternatives for solid-state storage. Solid-state storage is available in a number of form factors including those appropriate for installation inside a server or computer, and other types that are best suited for external, shared-storage implementations. He’ll also cover the pros and cons of each approach, as well as their specific benefits. Topics addressed will also include:
- Array-based solid-state storage, in mixed configurations with hard disk drives
- Server-based solid-state storage implementations using the PCIe interface
- All solid-state arrays
- Solid-state-based caching appliances
Some performance data from lab tests comparing solid-state storage and hard disk drive storage will be included in the sessions.
Attendance for this seminar is FREE for qualified IT professionals
But seating is limited to just 60 attendees in each city. To claim your complimentary seat today, apply by completing our quick online application or by calling Seminar Manager Chris Mullen at (617) 431-9338.
