For embedded computing hackers, mass storage (like hard drives) is often the most frustrating piece of the puzzle, as the fragile and power-hungry spin of the hard drive is usually the last non-solid-state part in the whole deployment. And while most engineers will just use a Compact Flash card, sometimes the only option is an ATA (hard drive) connection; that’s where the IFD-iV flash memory parts from IO Data Device Corporation come in. Basically just flash memory drives, the defining feature of the IFD-iVs (besides fairly rugged operating specifications) is that they use the standard ATA connection of a hard drive, meaning they can be deployed in place of hard drives when necessary. Models up to 2GB in capacity will be available for around $2,100 — maybe we’ll just deal with the fragile hard drives instead.
Read – Flash memory ATA hard drive [TechJapan]
Update: Reader Tom Lee brings up a much cheaper option for hackers on a budget (after the jump.)
Tom writes: “I may be missing something, but your item on the IFD-iV flash drive confused me. CF-to-IDE adapters are available for around $20. You still have to shell out for the flash memory of course, but I’m not really getting why a $2100 non-upgradable alternative is better.”
I’m not really sure, either, but off the top of my head, I’m thinking that there may be a few advantages: a smaller, more compact package (barely); flash memory that is more tuned for lots of random, repeated access, unlike some CF/flash memory; huge corporate R&D budgets in need of easy padding. So yeah, good question. I’m not exactly sure what the real advantage is.
Tom also passes on this review of a CF-to-IDE adapter by Gizmodo favorite/arch-nemesis Dan’s Data.
Read – VME Systems CF-IDE CompactFlash IDE adapter [DansData]
