MZILT960HBHQ-00AH3 Samsung PM1643a 960GB SAS-12GBPS Internal SFF SSD

Samsung MZILT960HBHQ-00AH3 960GB SAS-12GBPS SC SSD

The Samsung MZILT960HBHQ-00AH3 PM1643a is a high-performance, enterprise-grade 960GB SAS-12GBPS Read-Intensive SC DSF Internal SFF Solid State Drive designed for modern data center environments. With a compact 2.5-inch Small Form Factor (SFF) and enterprise-optimized firmware, this SSD delivers exceptional reliability, superior read-intensive performance, and robust data protection features. It is ideal for demanding workloads such as high-traffic databases, virtualization, and enterprise storage arrays where low latency and high throughput are critical.

Performance and Speed Specifications

Read and Write Speeds

The Samsung PM1643a offers impressive read-intensive performance with sustained sequential read speeds up to 2,100 MB/s and write speeds optimized for enterprise applications. Leveraging the SAS-12GBPS interface, it ensures that critical applications experience minimal bottlenecks, providing consistent high-speed access to large datasets.

I/O Operations Per Second (IOPS)

Optimized for read-heavy workloads, the MZILT960HBHQ-00AH3 delivers remarkable IOPS performance, reaching up to 400,000 read IOPS. This makes it suitable for environments with intensive random read operations such as online transaction processing (OLTP), data warehousing, and large-scale analytics.

Low Latency Performance

Enterprise applications demand predictable low-latency storage, and the PM1643a excels in this area. With SAS-12GBPS connectivity and Samsung’s advanced controller technology, this SSD provides consistently low read and write latency, ensuring seamless data access for mission-critical workloads and minimizing application response times.

Reliability and Endurance

Enterprise-Grade Durability

Samsung designed the PM1643a with enterprise reliability in mind. Rated for up to 3 full drive writes per day (DWPD) over its 5-year warranty period, this SSD ensures long-term endurance and stable performance in 24/7 server environments. It features robust error correction, wear-leveling, and power-loss protection mechanisms that safeguard data integrity and prevent unexpected downtime.

Data Protection Features

The MZILT960HBHQ-00AH3 incorporates advanced data protection technologies such as end-to-end data path protection, RAID recovery support, and Power Loss Protection (PLP) capacitors. These features ensure that critical enterprise data remains secure and recoverable in case of power interruptions or unexpected system failures.

Storage Architecture and Technology

SAS-12GBPS Interface Advantages

The SAS-12GBPS interface used by the PM1643a provides higher bandwidth than traditional SATA drives, allowing for faster data transfer rates and improved efficiency in high-demand server environments. SAS drives also support dual-port configurations, enabling better redundancy and load balancing in enterprise storage arrays.

Read-Intensive Optimization

Unlike general-purpose SSDs, the PM1643a is engineered specifically for read-intensive workloads. By optimizing firmware and NAND cell management for frequent read operations, Samsung ensures that enterprise applications can benefit from faster data retrieval times while maintaining consistent performance under sustained workloads.

Small Form Factor (SFF) Benefits

The 2.5-inch Small Form Factor design allows for high-density storage deployments, making it ideal for servers, storage arrays, and blade server systems. This compact size maximizes available rack space without compromising on performance or capacity, allowing organizations to scale storage efficiently while maintaining high throughput.

Applications and Use Cases

Enterprise Servers

The PM1643a is highly suited for enterprise servers that require low-latency, high-throughput storage solutions. It seamlessly handles database operations, virtualization workloads, and transactional applications, providing reliable performance in multi-user environments.

Data Center Storage Arrays

When integrated into enterprise storage arrays, this SAS SSD enhances storage performance, particularly for read-heavy operations. Its high IOPS and low latency make it an ideal choice for backend storage solutions powering cloud services, virtualization platforms, and large-scale analytics.

Virtualization and Cloud Environments

Virtualized environments and private cloud deployments benefit from the PM1643a’s ability to handle multiple concurrent read requests without performance degradation. By delivering consistent performance at scale, it ensures virtual machines and containers can operate efficiently without I/O bottlenecks.

High-Performance Computing (HPC)

For HPC clusters, where large datasets need to be accessed rapidly, the Samsung PM1643a provides fast sequential read speeds and sustained performance across demanding workloads. Its robust architecture supports continuous data processing, making it an excellent fit for simulation, modeling, and data analysis tasks.

NAND Technology

The PM1643a utilizes Samsung’s enterprise-grade NAND flash technology, ensuring high endurance, consistent performance, and reliable data retention. This advanced NAND architecture minimizes write amplification and optimizes cell usage for enterprise read-intensive workloads.

Controller and Firmware

Powered by Samsung’s proprietary controller, the PM1643a features advanced firmware optimizations for read-intensive workloads. It intelligently manages data placement, error correction, and garbage collection, ensuring optimal performance and extending drive lifespan under continuous operation.

Power Efficiency

Enterprise SSDs must balance performance with energy efficiency. The PM1643a achieves this by using low-power design principles, reducing operational costs, and minimizing heat generation. Its efficient power usage contributes to sustainable data center operations while maintaining peak performance under load.

Hot-Swappable Design

Designed for enterprise environments, the SFF SSD supports hot-swapping, allowing IT administrators to replace or upgrade drives without shutting down the system. This feature is critical for minimizing downtime and maintaining continuous service availability in mission-critical deployments.

Compatibility and Integration

The PM1643a is compatible with a wide range of enterprise storage platforms, including SAS backplanes, RAID controllers, and server architectures. Its dual-port SAS interface ensures seamless integration and high availability within complex storage configurations.

Enhanced Security Features

Enterprise SSDs require robust security, and the PM1643a includes support for secure erase and firmware-based encryption. These features protect sensitive data from unauthorized access and ensure compliance with enterprise data security policies and regulatory requirements.

Comparison with Other Enterprise SSDs

Performance Advantages

Compared to SATA-based SSDs, the PM1643a delivers significantly higher sequential read/write speeds, lower latency, and improved IOPS performance. Its SAS-12GBPS interface enables it to outperform general-purpose SSDs in high-demand enterprise workloads, particularly in read-intensive environments.

Endurance and Reliability

While consumer SSDs may suffice for light workloads, the PM1643a is specifically engineered for continuous operation in enterprise settings. Its higher endurance rating, advanced error correction, and power-loss protection provide a level of reliability unmatched by standard drives.

Enterprise-Optimized Features

Unlike standard SSDs, the PM1643a offers features tailored for IT administrators managing large storage arrays, such as dual-port SAS connectivity, hot-swappable capabilities, and firmware optimized for read-heavy operations. These enterprise-grade features make it a critical component for data centers and high-availability storage systems.

Server and Storage Array Installation

Installing the PM1643a in a server or storage array is straightforward due to its standard 2.5-inch form factor and SAS interface. Dual-port capability allows for redundant connections to enhance reliability, while hot-swappable design ensures that drives can be replaced without system downtime.

Temperature and Environmental Considerations

The PM1643a is designed to operate reliably within enterprise data center temperature ranges. Its low-power design reduces heat output, and the robust enclosure protects against environmental stress, making it suitable for dense storage deployments where cooling efficiency is critical.