Photo by WD and FADU Join Forces to Revolutionize Enterprise SSD Technology
The world of enterprise SSD technology is about to take a significant leap forward, thanks to a new partnership between Western Digital (WD) and FADU, a Korean SSD controller manufacturer. The two companies have joined forces to co-develop the next-generation enterprise SSD technology, known as Flexible Data Placement (FDP).
Partners in innovation
FDP is a standard technology proposed by the Open Compute Project (OCP) and is a newly approved NVMe specification (TP4146) initiated by companies such as Samsung, Meta, and Google. This technology aims to reduce write amplification while simplifying the integration of the entire software ecosystem.
Enhanced Performance and Extended Lifespan
According to reports, FDP technology not only enhances SSD performance but also significantly extends SSD lifespan. By markedly reducing the phenomenon of write amplification, FDP can improve SSD write performance by 2 to 3 times and optimize data placement within SSD storage space. This innovation is particularly significant in massive data exchange environments of large-scale data centers.
A hub of data exchange
FADU: A Pioneer in Memory Efficiency
Founded in 2015, FADU is a fabless startup primarily developing advanced NAND flash technologies to meet the explosive growth of data storage needs in hyperscale, enterprise, and cloud data centers. FADU is committed to producing high-performance SSD controllers and designing chips for data centers. The company aims to increase its market share in the SSD controller field to 30% by 2026.
A leader in SSD controllers
Western Digital: A Global Memory Manufacturer
As a globally renowned memory manufacturer, Western Digital achieved revenues of USD 1.71 billion in 1Q24, a 2.4% increase from the previous quarter. However, due to a limited product line, Western Digital’s revenue in the Enterprise SSD sector for the quarter was USD 133 million, only up by 18.1% QoQ.
A global leader in memory manufacturing
Accelerating Enterprise SSD Product Development
Western Digital intends to accelerate Enterprise SSD product development to expand future growth momentum. The company is also aggressively pursuing shipments of high-capacity storage products, with plans to mass-produce 162-layer QLC SSDs. To accelerate the production of PCIe 5.0 SSDs, Western Digital is collaborating with third-party controller manufacturers, breaking its tradition of in-house IC development.
The future of data storage
In conclusion, the partnership between WD and FADU marks a significant milestone in the development of enterprise SSD technology. With FDP technology, the future of data storage looks brighter than ever, promising enhanced performance, extended lifespan, and simplified integration.
A new era in data storage
