compairing iSLC, SLC & MLC Flash technologies.

1. Panel PC - Flash - Power supply - Embedded - Industrial PC/Monitor
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Comparing iSLC , SLC and MLC Flash Technologies and Structure
Overview
The possibility exists today to essentially double the capacity of flash memory within the same die by
allowing multiple charges per cell. Increasing capacity in this manner has trade offs that need to be known
by developers. This paper is an introduction into Single Level Cell (SLC), iSLC Multi Level Cell (MLC) flash
technologies highlighting the basic functions and benefits of each.
Comparison
iSLC SLC (Single-Level Cell) MLC (Multi-Level Cell)
Storage Two bits of data in one
memory cell.
One bit of data in one
memory cell
Two bits of data in one
memory cell
Program / Erase Cycle 30000~50000 times 100,000 3,000 ~ 10,000
Program / Erase time Program: 230 μs/page
Erase: 700us /block
Program: 230 μs/page
Erase: 700us /block
Program: 900 μs/page
Erase: 2 ms/block
Cell array to register 30 μs (max.) 25 μs (max.) 50 μs (max.)
Cost-per-bit SLC<iSLC<MLC Higher Lower
Density Lower Higher
Power Consumption SLC<iSLC<MLC Lower Higher
Generally, MLC Flash offers twice the capacity of SLC Flash in the same size device, and it
comes at a significantly lower cost-per-bit. Designers, however, do have to make some
trade-offs in terms of performance and reliability (SLC Flash is about three times as fast as
MLC Flash and offers up to 10 times the endurance). MLC Flash represents nearly 90% of all
NAND Flash shipments
iSLC Benefits
• Cost: 50% or less compare to SLC.
• Performance: Similar to SLC.
• Lifespan: 10 times better than MLC.
• Increase long-term reliability.