New PCIe Gen 5 SSD Controllers for AI/Cloud Markets

Data center technology is constantly evolving to keep pace with the rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). According to Pete Hazen, vice president of Microchip’s data center solutions business unit, the fifth generation Flashtec NVMe controller is at the forefront of meeting the increased demand for high-performance, power-optimized SSDs. Hazen emphasized that the NVMe 5016 Flashtec PCIe SSD controller is specifically designed for deployment in data centers to support cloud computing and business-critical applications.

The Flashtec NVMe 5016 SSD controller is tailored to meet the requirements of enterprise applications such as online transaction processing, financial data processing, and database mining, which are highly sensitive to latency and performance. It also caters to the escalating AI needs by offering higher throughput for handling large data sets used in model training and inference processing. With a sequential read performance exceeding 14 GB per second, the NVMe 5016 controller optimizes compute resources in both traditional and AI-accelerated servers, especially under demanding workloads.

Aside from its support for the latest NVMe host interface standard, the NVMe 5016 controller boasts a high random read performance of 3.5M IOs per second and a power-efficient profile tailored to the needs of modern data centers. Delivering over 2.5 GB of data per watt, the controller leverages advanced node technologies and incorporates power management features like automatic idling of processor cores and autonomous power reduction capabilities. It also ensures compatibility with various Flash memory technologies, including QLC, TLC, and MLC NAND, by providing robust Error Correction Code (ECC) capabilities.

The flexibility and scalability of the NVMe 5016 controller contribute to reducing the total cost of ownership by maximizing PCIe resource utilization through advanced virtualization capabilities. Developers can leverage features like single root I/O virtualization (SR-IOV) and Flexible Data Placement (FDP) to enhance performance, efficiency, and reliability of Flash resources on the SSD. Additionally, Microchip’s Credit Engine enables dynamic resource allocation, facilitating reliable on-demand cloud services.

Security is a paramount concern as data storage volumes expand, leading to an increased risk of security threats. The Flashtec NVMe 5016 SSD controller prioritizes enterprise-level integrity and dependability by incorporating comprehensive data protection measures, ensuring uninterrupted operations and safeguarding confidential information. Security features such as Secure Boot, dual signature authentication, encryption for data-in-transit and data-at-rest, and stringent key management practices are integrated into the controller to maintain the integrity of firmware and data throughout their lifecycle.