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.

Key Features of the PS1012 U.2

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.