Acronyms and Abbreviations

R

RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) A computer architecture that reduces chip complexity by using simpler instructions. RISC compilers have to generate software routines to perform complex instructions that were previously done in hardware by CISC computers. In RISC, the microcode layer and associated overhead is eliminated.

S

SLC Single-Level Cell A flash memory technology that stores one bit of data per memory cell; supporting only two states: erased (1) or programmed (0).

SMART (Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology) An “early warning system” for anticipating pending drive problems. The drive’s integrated controller works with various sensors to monitor several aspects of the drive's performance. Using this status information, SMART determines if the drive is behaving normally or not, and then makes the information available to software that probes the drive.

SSD (Solid State Disk) Disk drive that uses memory chips instead of rotating platters for data storage. Used in battery-powered handheld devices as well as desktop computers and servers, solid state disks (SSDs) are faster than regular disks because there is zero latency (there is no read/write head to move). They are also more rugged than hard disks and offer greater protection in hostile environments.

T

True-IDEFlash memory devices (such as CF cards) have a pin that when connected to the proper voltage at power-up selects the “True-IDE” mode of operation instead of the “PC-CARD-ATA” mode of operation. This is the mode used in the interface.

U

Ultra ATA An enhanced version of the IDE interface that transfers data at 33, 66 or 100 Mbytes/sec. These enhancements are also called “Ultra DMA,” “UDMA,” “ATA-33,” “ATA-66,” “ATA-100,” “DMA-33,” “DMA-66” and “DMA-100.”

Ultra DMA (see Ultra ATA)

Zeus Ultra DMA Solid State Drives

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