SanDisk to Improve SSD Speeds by 100x

A new file system from the company could improve random write speeds by 100 times, according to SanDisk.

Existing solid-state drives are fast. The next generation of such drives could perform up to 100 times faster, though, thanks to a new flash-specific file system from SanDisk. The company unveiled its new ExtremeFFS file system on Wednesday.

According to SanDisk, ExtremeFFS could improve random write speeds by up to 100 times by storing it in a more efficient way, rather than actually changing up the hardware. When data needs to be written, the drive will merely file it away in the most convenient and efficient location on the drive, rather than in a fixed location as an old file system would. The result: a massive boost in speed, and endurance too.

As part of the announcement, the company is also calling for new measurements in SSD drive speed and longevity. The terms vRPM and LDE will compare SSD speeds to those of conventional hard drives and the data lifespan of an SSD, respectively. SanDisk will begin adding the specs to all of its new drives, and is encouraging the rest of the industry to follow suit.

SanDisk will begin selling ExtremeFFS-equipped drives in 2009, though it hasn’t yet announced product details.