OCZ today introduced release candidate firmware v1.4RC, which dramatically improves the performance of its Vertex 4 SATA 3.0 Series SSDs.
According to OCZ, v1.4RC nearly doubles sequential write
performance for lower capacity models, significantly
boosts sequential read performance at low queue depths,
and improves general performance under real-world
workloads comprising mixed reads and writes.
Compared to Vertex 4's original firmware
version v1.3, v1.4RC more than doubles sequential write
performance of the 128 GB model and boosts the 256 GB
model from 380 MB/s to 465 MB/s. "These gains
were achieved through proprietary algorithms which
orchestrate the sequence of physical NAND programming
operations to ensure that each NAND device is optimally
utilized at all times," said OCZ.
For the mainstream user, entry-level capacities of Vertex 4 can now achieve nearly the same sequential write performance as the 512GB model at a mere fraction of the cost.
OCZ has also responded to users' requests for higher
sequential read performance at lower queue depths. To
offset performance degradation resulting from the host
not utilizing NCQ or higher queue depth, firmware v1.4RC
has incorporated a predictive read algorithm which
anticipates and responds to commands not yet issued by
the host. In addition, v1.4RC performs more consistently
under mixed read-write workloads, increases general
stability, and improves compatibility with
less-prevalent host chipsets.
The v1.4RC firmware upgrade will be available today at the company's website, and Vertex 4 SSDs
will soon begin shipping to resellers with final v1.4
firmware in the coming weeks. In addition to the release
of the enhanced firmware, OCZ is also broadening the
Vertex 4 Series with the introduction of a
new 64 GB capacity, which is ideal for mobile
applications, boot drives, and users requiring high
speed at a more affordable price point. Vertex 4 64 GB
drives will become available over the next few weeks
through the company's global channel.