At the recent Flash Memory Summit in 2024, Phison provided an update on their client flash solutions. While the E31T Gen 5 mainstream controller has been making appearances at various trade shows since Computex 2023, and the USB4 native flash controller designed for high-end PSSDs was unveiled at CES 2024, the spotlight was on the new E29T Gen 4 mainstream DRAM-less controller. Phison is confident that there is still room for performance improvement on the Gen 4 platform with this cost-effective DRAM-less solution.
In comparing Phison’s NVMe SSD controllers, we see the E29T positioned for the mainstream consumer market, with a 12nm manufacturing process, a single Cortex R5 CPU core, and 7th Gen LDPC error correction. Unlike some of its counterparts, the E29T does not include DRAM and operates on a PCIe 4.0 x4 interface. Despite these differences, the E29T is capable of reaching sequential read and write speeds of 7.4 GB/s and 6.5 GB/s, respectively.
One of the key upgrades from the previous E27T model is the utilization of a newer LDPC engine in the E29T, which not only enhances the SSD’s longevity but also ensures compatibility with the latest QLC flash technology. Additionally, the controller comes with improved power management features.
During the event, Phison also showcased a U21 USB4 PSSD reference design, featuring a MagSafe-compatible enclosure, and shared benchmark results using CrystalDiskMark. It was revealed that PSSDs based on the U21 controller are nearing availability in retail channels.
Phison has built a reputation for being at the forefront of introducing SSD controllers that leverage cutting-edge interface technologies such as PCIe 4.0, PCIe 5.0, and USB4. While some top-tier vendors may choose to develop their controllers in-house, Phison remains competitive by offering solutions tailored to meet market demands. With the E29T controller, Phison is targeting the mainstream Gen 4 market by incorporating the latest LDPC engine and supporting high-speed NAND flash configurations.
In a rapidly evolving industry where performance and efficiency are paramount, Phison continues to innovate and adapt to emerging trends. By focusing on delivering reliable and high-performing storage solutions, Phison remains a key player in driving the advancement of client SSD technology. With the introduction of the E29T Gen 4 controller, Phison is poised to meet the growing demand for cost-effective and efficient SSD solutions in the mainstream consumer market.