Solid-State – SSD flash memory computer disk drives are no longer just the future of data storage. SSDs are here today and can offer dramatic upgrades to your Apple Macintosh computer's performance. Solid-State drives use high-speed flash memory chips to store data.
With no moving parts, a SSD offers multiple benefits: Silent operation, shock resistance, and low-power requirements. But the most compelling reason to have one in your Mac is sheer speed. Current SSD's now deliver data read and write speeds that simply outperform any conventional spinning platter hard drive available. Some SSD's transfer data nearly three times as fast as the fastest convention hard drive you can buy; they're that fast! With no moving parts, the reliability of SSD storage is another real-world benefit. Conventional hard drives are notorious for wearing out, growing noisier over their lifetime, or simply dying from mechanical failure. SSD is so reliable, manufacturers offer warranty up to 5 years.
Most recent Macintosh computers use the widely used SATA II drive interface standard for maximum performance. Although you can find older ATA interface SSD drives for aging Macs, the ATA interface just can not fully deliver the speed throughput SATA II now offers. In fact, flash memory speeds are increasing so rapidly that even the SATA II 3GBps interface specification is beginning to limit the potential of SSD technology. The next generation of SATA III 6GBps Solid-state drives are just beginning to reach consumers. We expect Apple will adopt the new interface in its next-generation of Mac laptops and desks to keep their computer performance on the leading edge.
Many Apple computer models make it easy to swap in a solid-state drive. With the right tools to open your MacBook, iMac or Mac mini – a SSD drive swap can often be performed within minutes. Using any number of disk drive cloning utilities for OSX, you can then transfer your existing setup, programs and data onto the SSD. For those lacking the technical skills or courage to perform a do it yourself hard drive upgrade, the Apple Store online offers Build-To-Order SSD options. You can simply opt for an SSD drive to be installed when you place an order for a new Macintosh computer.
Capacities of Mac compatible SSD drives currently range from 32 Gigabytes up to 1 Terabyte of storage. The most affordable and practical sizes a Mac owner should consider being in the 128GB to 256GB range. There you'll find ample room to store your documents and media files without breaking your budget. Solid-State drives still command a price premium over conventional hard disk drives, so for those with Terabytes of data, the cost of the largest SSD's may not be practical. Many Mac owners opt for a smaller capacity SSD as a boot drive for the OSX operating system and applications. Others can then use an external USB or FireWire hard drive for additional storage of larger media files: The best of both worlds.
Breathe new life into your Macintosh with a Mac compatible SSD upgrade. Whether old or new, you'll find it delivers dramatic upgrades to EVERYTHING you do on your Mac. Faster boot times, rapid application launch, saving files instantly and quick program switching will prove the productivity value of Solid-State storage.