Flash memory mass storage technology tradeoffs

A large capacity mass storage system using solid state flash memory as the memory element is an advantage in severe environments. The relatively high density of the current flash memory devices supports the development of a large capacity mass storage system using this technology, however, the advantage of an entirely solid state system in severe environments brings some disadvantages. These disadvantages, relating to reliability, write thruput and cost can be minimized with the use of built-in spare capacity, array architecture, redundancy and modular components.