It is a type of storage device that uses flash memory to store data, as opposed to traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), which use spinning magnetic disks. SSDs are faster, more reliable, and durable compared to HDDs, making them a popular choice for both laptops and desktops.
Key Concepts of SSD
No Moving Parts:
Unlike HDDs, SSDs have no spinning disks or moving read/write heads. This design makes SSDs more shock-resistant and less prone to physical damage.
Flash Memory-Based:
SSDs use NAND-based flash memory, similar to USB drives, which enables fast data access and retrieval speeds.
Faster Read/Write Speeds:
SSDs can access data almost instantaneously, greatly reducing load times for applications, operating systems, and files. Some SSDs can be 10 times faster than traditional HDDs.
Built-in DRAM Cache
You may ask there is a cache in SSD as SSD itself a cache right for the processor?
- Yes, it is like a faster cache for the system compared to slow, mechanical storage. However, SSDs themselves still benefit greatly from having a cache (like DRAM) because SSDs are not as fast as the system memory (RAM) or the processor’s own cache.
What is stored here and where?
In most systems, the C: drive is where the operating system (like Windows) and main applications are stored.
1) Operating System files:
It has essential system files and libraries that enable your computer to boot up and function.
2) System Applications and Programs:
By default, most installed programs, like Microsoft Office, browsers, games, and utilities, are stored on the C: drive, specifically in the “Program Files” or “Program Files (x86)” folders.
3) User Data:
Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, and other personal folders are usually saved in the “Users” folder on the C: drive.
4) Page File / Virtual Memory:
Windows creates a page file on the C: drive to use as virtual memory, which acts as overflow memory when your RAM is full.
Types of SSDs
1) SATA(Serial ATA) SSDs:
- It connect via the same interface as HDDs, which limits their speed to SATA’s bandwidth (~500 MB/s).
- They are slower than NVMe SSDs but still much faster than HDDs and generally more affordable.
2) NVMe(Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs:
- It connect via the PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) interface, allowing for speeds up to several GB/s.
- They are faster than SATA SSDs and are popular in high-performance applications.
NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) Drives
It connects directly to the motherboard via the PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) interface, usually through an M.2 slot or U.2 connector.
M.2 NVMe Drives
- It is a compact, stick-like design that slots directly into the M.2 connector on the motherboard.
- Since they connect directly to the motherboard, they don’t need a data or power cable.
U.2 NVMe Drives
- U.2 drives resemble traditional 2.5" drives but connect to the motherboard with a U.2 cable.
- They are often used in servers and high-performance workstations where NVMe performance is needed but M.2 form factors may not be ideal.
PCIe Slot NVMe Drives
- Some NVMe SSDs come as PCIe add-in cards. These connect directly to a PCIe slot on the motherboard, like a graphics card.
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