Samsung 470 Series in Detail
There are three versions available that range in capacity and include 64GB, 128GB and 256GB models. All three feature the same impressive 250MB/s read performance, while the 256GB and 128GB versions claim write throughput of 220MB/s, and the 64GB version is slower at 170MB/s.
The Samsung S3C29MAX01 controller chip is utilized accompanied by two 128MB Samsung DDR2-667 cache chips (serial code "K4T1G164QE"). This cache is intended to improve small write performance and eliminate any 'stuttering' issues. We were surprised to find two cache chips, one on either side of the PCB, as every SSD we have seen so far only includes a single cache chip.
The PCB used is very small and it would appear that Samsung could easily release a 1.8" version of the 470 Series. We haven't heard of any plans about moving in that direction, but with smaller 1.8" drives currently fetching a price premium it might prove a smart move.
As mentioned before, the flash NAND memory used on this drive is also manufactured by Samsung. Our 256GB review unit carried Samsung memory labeled K9HDGD8U5M. This memory utilizes 30-nanometer technology and in total there are 16 chips with each IC having a 16GB density.
Samsung claims a MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) of 1.5 million hours. This is a typical estimate that most manufacturers label their SSDs with. Additionally, Samsung claims that the drive will withstand 1500G shock resistance, also standard amongst SSDs.
Like all solid-state drives the 470 Series drives are very conservative when it comes to power consumption. At idle all three models use just 0.14 watts and a staggering 0.24 watts when active. The active power rating is amazing as comparatively many of the best SSDs that we have seen to date use between 2 and 4 watts of power when active.
The Samsung 470 Series drives measure 100 x 69.85 x 9.50mm and weigh just 68 grams, thanks to their slim 2.5" design they are ideal for both desktop and laptop computers. They are designed to work in RAID if you choose to purchase more than one, and are backed by a limited 3-year warranty.