Features & Design
Like the OCZ Vertex series, the new Agility EX makes use of the Indilinx 'Barefoot' controller, which has proven to be every bit as good as Samsung's controller. Indilinx claims the IDX110M00-FC 'Barefoot' chip can achieve a maximum read speed of 230MB/s with capacities as large as 512GB using multi-level cell (MLC) NAND flash.
The controller chip is supported by a 64MB cache designed to improve small write performance and eliminate any 'stuttering' issues. As mentioned before, OCZ specifications for the Agility EX 60GB drive include sustained read and write speeds of up to 255MB/s and 195MB/s, respectively. The claimed write performance is much higher than that of its Vertex counterpart, something we will certainly be looking into once we begin benchmarking.
Whereas OCZ used Samsung K9HCG08U1M-PCB0 (MLC) memory for the Vertex, and Intel 29F64G08FAMCI (MLC) memory for the original Agility series, the Agility EX is loaded with Intel 29F32G08FANC1 (SLC) flash memory chips. Featured within this particular SSD are 16 chips, each with a 4GB capacity for a total drive size of 64GB, though OCZ markets it as a 60GB drive.
The Agility EX also has a claimed MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) of 1.5 million hours. This is a more conservative estimation than what many manufacturers offer. However, with a 3 year warranty backing the drive, OCZ gives buyers some peace of mind. Additionally the drive is built to withstand 1500G shock resistance which is the industry standard.
The Agility EX SSD measures 99.8 x 69.63 x 9.30mm and weighs just 77 grams. Its slim 2.5" design makes it ideal for both desktop and laptop computers. OCZ has used the same enclosure design as their Vertex and original Agility drives, which is constructed from aluminum, looks good, and appears to be very durable.