When should the decision be made?
Sometimes the product will dictate whether embedded or removable flash is best. A TV handset has embedded flash memory which stores all the information required to communicate with a TV when buttons are pressed. Users never need to access the flash memory itself. A digital camera has removable memory because users may want to select different cards depending on factors like the capacity and read/write speeds they require, and because they might want to use different cards for different tasks.
Sometimes the choice between removable and embedded flash memory is less clear cut, and a range of factors need to be taken into account.
Will performance levels be guaranteed?
When embedded flash is specified by the manufacturer it provides the end user with a guaranteed performance level. If removable storage is specified, the user can influence performance by choosing memory themselves, and may make their decision based on factors including price, capacity, read/write speeds and brand loyalty.
Most removable form factors are based on industry standards, making it easier for the end user to select a product that will work in their device. But end users might not always understand the complexities of different options. This is where the advice of an expert third party is very helpful.
Are end-user storage upgrades important?
Some devices make the ability of end users to add more storage a key selling point. Mobile phones that can accommodate flash memory take this approach. This may give devices a longer life as they can accommodate more data as a user’s needs change, but, as already noted, the device maker may not be able to guarantee performance levels associated with accessing the memory.
How does flash memory affect manufacturing costs?
Product development costs are often lower when removable flash storage is used because the manufacturer does not need to purchase memory. However the potential to reduce manufacturing costs should be set beside the lack of control over the quality and performance criteria of memory that users purchase.
Is data security important?
Data stored on embedded flash memory is easier to secure. Devices with embedded flash storage could be protected by passcodes, biometric fingerprint sensors or two factor authentication. Ensuring data is secured on a removable flash memory card is more challenging. Although it can be encrypted, one of the reasons for opting for removable storage is to allow end users to share data between devices, such as moving photographs from a camera to a computer. If data must be stored securely, then embedded flash memory could be the better option.
Is device size an important factor?
Embedded flash memory is often smaller than removable, and so could be a better choice if device size is important.
Are there servicing and repair implications?
If removable flash memory fails, the end user can replace it with a new memory card. If embedded flash memory fails, then the whole product becomes inoperable. In this case, will the manufacturer offer a warranty, device repair or replacement, and if end-user data is stored on-device, what will it provide in terms of data recovery services?
Key factors to bear in mind when deciding on flash or embedded storage
Production costs
Generally embedded is less expensive.
Control over reliability and quality
Generally embedded gives manufacturers more control.
Cost of product to end-user
Generally embedded has lower product cost, with the user deciding what they spend on flash memory.
Product support costs
Generally embedded requires higher support costs, if a manufacturer decides to provide end-user support for device failure.
Product size
Generally embedded memory is smaller.
Data security
Generally embedded flash memory is easier to secure, though data on removable memory can be encrypted. In some cases end users will not want their data encrypted.
How Cardwave can help
Cardwave provides consultancy services to help device makers select the right memory for their products. We help our customers find the right memory, in the right quantity, at the right price.
This includes helping customers understand how memory interfaces with the rest of their product, the importance of deciding between consumer and industrial grade memory and card read / write technologies, and, using our worldwide network of contacts, sourcing both memory and the other components required for its use.
