Samsung's arch-rival SK Hynix has launched its high-end PCB01 SSD, designed specifically for on-device AI PCs.
This PCIe Gen 5.0 SSD boasts impressive sequential read and write speeds of 14GB and 12GB per second, respectively, along with 4K random read and write speeds of 2 million IOPS.
The company claims that these speeds are fast enough for LLM training and inference tasks to be performed almost instantaneously, within one second. The SSD also reportedly offers more than a 30% improvement in power efficiency compared to previous generations, improving the stability of large-scale AI computing tasks.
Three capabilities
One of the most notable features of the PCB01 is the adoption of SLC caching, which improves performance. This technology places the single-level cell in some parts of the NAND cell, for a faster computing experience for both AI services and conventional tasks. The PCB01 also includes a root of trust (ROT) solution that prevents cybersecurity attacks and protects personal data.
The PCB01 is currently undergoing validation, and SK Hynix says it plans to mass-produce and ship the drive to enterprises and general consumers later this year in three capacities: 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB. Initially targeted at OEMs, these entry-level drives are part of the company’s new Alistar platform, which uses an 8-channel interface and 238-layer TLC NAND technology.
As this is an OEM product, it doesn't come with any extras, including a heatsink. Any model that does make it to stores will likely be cheaper than Crucial's ultra-fast T705 for this reason alone, but we don't have any indication of pricing at this time.
Ahn Hyun, Director of NS Committee at SK Hynix, said the company is seeing strong demand for new products from global AI PC manufacturers. “We will work to enhance our leadership as the world’s leading AI memory provider also in the NAND solutions space by successfully completing customer validation and mass production of PCB01, which will be the focus of attention,” he added.
