CFexpress™ PCIe Cards

Swissbit implements pSLC (pseudo-SLC) mode to deliver SLC-like endurance from MLC and TLC NAND. By operating multi-level cells in single-bit mode, we achieve 10-to-25-fold endurance improvement over native TLC operation. For MLC, this means using only the lower page. For TLC, true single-bit operation. The result: applications requiring 10,000-50,000 write cycles can use affordable 3D TLC instead of expensive SLC, while still meeting industrial endurance requirements. pSLC operations also execute faster than MLC or TLC modes, improving system responsiveness.

Various effects threaten data reliability: read disturb from repeated reads of neighboring cells, charge loss over time affecting retention, temperature stress on stored data. Swissbit implements Data Care Management algorithms that monitor NAND health and proactively refresh data before corruption occurs. Our firmware tracks read counts per block, identifies blocks approaching read disturb limits, and relocates data preventively. Temperature monitoring triggers data refresh cycles when environmental conditions risk retention degradation. These background processes maintain data integrity without user intervention.

Operating across -40°C to +85°C requires engineering beyond selecting temperature-rated NAND. Swissbit validates NAND behavior at temperature extremes and through thermal cycling. We design PCBs with solder paste selection and component placement that withstand mechanical stress from thermal expansion. Our industrial-grade products specify operational temperature ranges validated through testing across the full range, not extrapolated from room temperature measurements. Products with extended temperature range are tested at the spec corners in our Berlin facility.

Swissbit implements end-to-end data path protection using CRC checksums and ECC validation from host interface through NAND storage. This detects silent data corruption from electrical interference, firmware bugs, or NAND cell failures. Traditional storage verifies data integrity only at NAND interface; errors in controller processing, buffer RAM, or interface logic go undetected. End-to-end protection validates data integrity at every stage, ensuring data read from NAND matches data written by host.

Swissbit implements LDPC (Low-Density Parity-Check) error correction for superior data recovery compared to BCH or Reed-Solomon codes. LDPC corrects more bit errors per page, enabling reliable operation of NAND with higher error rates, extending drive lifespan as cells degrade. This is particularly important for MLC/TLC NAND and high-temperature operation where error rates increase. LDPC's computational complexity requires hardware acceleration; our controllers implement dedicated LDPC engines for real-time correction without performance penalty.

Swissbit designs storage for shock and vibration specifications exceeding consumer products by orders of magnitude. We validate products to 1,500g shock (0.5ms half-sine) and 20g vibration (5-2000Hz). Component selection, solder paste formulation, PCB thickness, and mechanical strain relief enable survival of impacts and vibration that would destroy consumer drives. This ruggedization supports transportation applications (railway, automotive, aerospace), industrial automation with reciprocating machinery, and mobile equipment experiencing constant vibration and occasional drops.

Swissbit implements comprehensive S.M.A.R.T (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) for predictive maintenance. Our storage reports detailed health metrics: total bytes written, remaining endurance percentage, bad block count, temperature history, power cycle count, unexpected power loss events. This enables condition-based maintenance rather than time-based replacement. System integrators monitor S.M.A.R.T data to predict end-of-life and schedule replacement during maintenance windows, preventing unexpected failures in production environments. Our Device Manager software provides visualization and analysis tools.

Swissbit storage supports TCG Opal 2.0 specifications for standardized encryption key management and secure erase functionality. Opal enables pre-boot authentication, user-based access control, and compliance with data protection regulations requiring hardware-encrypted storage. IT administrators manage encryption policies centrally without custom software per storage vendor. Opal's locking ranges enable partitioning storage into encrypted and unencrypted regions, supporting use cases requiring both protected data and unencrypted boot partitions.