Since there's a B key, it means that ssd can only run at x2. B+M is only for installing it in a M key socket. If a key indicates narrower bandwidth is present, the wider one doesn't matter.
I think it is interesting that each of the models has a separate package size (table on-site says "TBW" but the attached pics say "Package Size"). I'd have expected using the same die/controller and just disabling/fusing off unneeded features for product segmentation to avoid having to pay tape out and manufacturing on 3 different chips.
Regardless -- based on the heritage of the Maxio IP (JMicron), they're going to have to demonstrate that they can deliver their stated performance without major tradeoffs or issues - even if they're just looking to fill the value segment.
They really should start integrating some sort of SSD into modern laptop motherboards.
Otherwise, I don't get the appeal of these low end controllers, at least for the end user. SSD pricing still seems to be 99% NAND, so at the capacities I look at (500GB to 2TB), the cheapest SSDs are the ones from known brands with good to great controllers. The NVME x2 SSDs or cheap JMicron SSDs with 4 channels are often not cheap enough to justify the performance and unknown reliability drawbacks. And the normal controller SSDs are on sale so often that it really doesn't make sense to buy an SSD with this kind of controller yourself. Now for OEM use, I guess the story might be different. And we're at a point where I expect any SSD to perform significantly better in most circumstances and not worse in any than a traditional HDD, regardless of vendor.
Lower, mid, high end tiers. The segregated lines that enable a company to charge x, y, as well as Z. have a range pf products that sell well, release a 'supposedly' cheaper part and then increase the price of the latest and greatest which doesn't offer much above the last higher end part.
We’ve updated our terms. By continuing to use the site and/or by logging into your account, you agree to the Site’s updated Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
7 Comments
Back to Article
MajesticTrout - Friday, June 7, 2019 - link
That drive with the blue pcb is labeled as PCIe 3.0 x4, but isn't it keyed for x2?Death666Angel - Saturday, June 8, 2019 - link
B+M doesn't have a distinction between x2 and x4. M only would be x4 and B only would be x2 (as well as A and E).erinadreno - Saturday, June 8, 2019 - link
Since there's a B key, it means that ssd can only run at x2. B+M is only for installing it in a M key socket. If a key indicates narrower bandwidth is present, the wider one doesn't matter.MrCommunistGen - Friday, June 7, 2019 - link
I think it is interesting that each of the models has a separate package size (table on-site says "TBW" but the attached pics say "Package Size"). I'd have expected using the same die/controller and just disabling/fusing off unneeded features for product segmentation to avoid having to pay tape out and manufacturing on 3 different chips.Regardless -- based on the heritage of the Maxio IP (JMicron), they're going to have to demonstrate that they can deliver their stated performance without major tradeoffs or issues - even if they're just looking to fill the value segment.
zepi - Saturday, June 8, 2019 - link
Cheapest model doesn’t require pins for external DDR and only the best model has all nand-channels + DDR interface.I suppose that for laptop and tablet customers who might integrate this to motherboards, every square-mm is worth something.
Maybe smaller packaging even saves them a penny on each chip.
Death666Angel - Saturday, June 8, 2019 - link
They really should start integrating some sort of SSD into modern laptop motherboards.Otherwise, I don't get the appeal of these low end controllers, at least for the end user. SSD pricing still seems to be 99% NAND, so at the capacities I look at (500GB to 2TB), the cheapest SSDs are the ones from known brands with good to great controllers. The NVME x2 SSDs or cheap JMicron SSDs with 4 channels are often not cheap enough to justify the performance and unknown reliability drawbacks. And the normal controller SSDs are on sale so often that it really doesn't make sense to buy an SSD with this kind of controller yourself. Now for OEM use, I guess the story might be different. And we're at a point where I expect any SSD to perform significantly better in most circumstances and not worse in any than a traditional HDD, regardless of vendor.
damianrobertjones - Wednesday, June 12, 2019 - link
Lower, mid, high end tiers. The segregated lines that enable a company to charge x, y, as well as Z. have a range pf products that sell well, release a 'supposedly' cheaper part and then increase the price of the latest and greatest which doesn't offer much above the last higher end part.Business. Ripping us off all day long.