SK Hynix Unveils High-Capacity SSD “PS1012 U.2” for AI Data Centers
On December 18, 2024, SK Hynix announced the development of its high-capacity enterprise SSD (eSSD), the PS1012 U.2, designed specifically for AI-driven data centers. With a 61TB QLC NAND-based storage capacity, the new SSD represents a leap in performance and capacity, aligning with the rapidly growing demands of AI-era infrastructure.
On December 18, 2024, SK Hynix announced the development of its high-capacity enterprise SSD (eSSD), the PS1012 U.2, designed specifically for AI-driven data centers. With a 61TB QLC NAND-based storage capacity, the new SSD represents a leap in performance and capacity, aligning with the rapidly growing demands of AI-era infrastructure.
Key Features of the PS1012 U.2
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Next-Generation PCIe 5.0
- PS1012 utilizes the latest PCIe 5.0 interface, doubling the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0-based products.
- Offers data transfer speeds of up to 32 GT/s (Giga-transfers per second) and sequential read speeds reaching 13GB/s (Gigabytes per second), twice the performance of the previous generation.
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High-Capacity QLC Technology
- Based on Quad-Level Cell (QLC) NAND, enabling higher storage density and efficiency.
- Initial capacity of 61TB, with plans to expand to 122TB by Q3 2025.
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OCP 2.0 Compatibility
- Supports Open Compute Project (OCP) 2.0, enhancing compatibility across a wide range of global AI-focused data center server hardware.
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Path to Ultra-High Capacity
- SK Hynix plans to incorporate its recently developed 321-layer 4D NAND flash technology to launch a 244TB SSD, setting a new benchmark for enterprise storage solutions.
Collaboration with Solidigm
SK Hynix has strengthened its collaboration with Solidigm, its subsidiary, which pioneered the commercial deployment of QLC-based enterprise SSDs. By leveraging Solidigm’s expertise, SK Hynix aims to maximize synergies, expanding its product portfolio to meet the diverse demands of AI-driven data centers.
This partnership positions SK Hynix and Solidigm at the forefront of enterprise SSD markets, combining cutting-edge technology with robust manufacturing capabilities to cater to next-generation computing needs.
Strategic Goals and AI Data Center Integration
The PS1012 U.2 SSD marks a critical step in SK Hynix’s strategy to become a comprehensive AI storage solution provider. With AI applications driving unprecedented data growth, the demand for high-capacity, high-performance SSDs has surged:
- AI Workloads: Massive AI models require storage solutions that balance speed, efficiency, and durability.
- Energy Efficiency: QLC-based SSDs deliver cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency, critical for scaling AI data center operations.
In addition to its AI-specific storage offerings, SK Hynix is focusing on long-term leadership in NAND flash solutions, with a robust roadmap targeting higher capacities and broader compatibility.
Leadership Commentary
Ahn Hyun, Chief Development Officer of SK Hynix, emphasized:
"We are bolstering our lineup of QLC-based high-capacity SSDs to reinforce our leadership in NAND flash solutions tailored for AI. By meeting the diverse needs of AI data center customers, we aim to solidify our position as a comprehensive storage provider for the AI era."
Future Roadmap
- 2025: Expand SSD offerings to 122TB, targeting major server manufacturers for evaluations and partnerships.
- Beyond 2025: Launch a 244TB SSD leveraging 321-layer 4D NAND technology to lead the ultra-high-capacity SSD market for data centers.
- Broader Compatibility: Enhance integration with diverse server architectures globally via OCP compliance.
Conclusion
The launch of the PS1012 U.2 SSD underscores SK Hynix's commitment to advancing AI-centric storage solutions. With its unmatched capacity, cutting-edge QLC technology, and next-gen PCIe performance, the PS1012 positions SK Hynix as a pivotal player in the future of AI data center infrastructure.
