- Western Digital introduces AI Data Cycle framework for optimized storage in AI applications.
- Launches DC SN861 SSD for AI model training checkpointing with up to 16 TB capacity.
- Unveils DC SN655 SSD, expanding capacity to 64 TB in U.3 format.
- Enhances DC HC690 HDD to 32 TB capacity with SMR technology.
- Sampling underway for SSD models, with volume shipments expected in the near future.
Main AI News:
In a bid to revolutionize storage for AI applications, Western Digital has unveiled a cutting-edge framework known as the AI Data Cycle, accompanied by the launch of two groundbreaking SSDs and a disk drive tailored to its specifications.
The AI Data Cycle comprises six pivotal stages: archival of raw data content, data preparation and ingestion, AI model training, interface and prompting, AI inference engine, and new content generation. Each stage demands specialized storage solutions for optimal performance and efficiency. High-capacity disk drives are essential for stages 1 and 6, while high-capacity SSDs are imperative for stages 2 and specific requirements within stages 3, 4, and 5.
Rob Soderbery, EVP and GM of Western Digital’s Flash Business Unit, emphasized the critical role of data in driving AI advancements, stating, “Data is the fuel of AI. As AI technologies become embedded across virtually every industry sector, storage has become an increasingly important and dynamic component of the AI technology stack. The new AI Data Cycle framework will equip our customers to build a storage infrastructure that impacts the performance, scalability, and deployment of AI applications.”
Western Digital’s latest offerings include three additions to its renowned Ultrastar-brand storage drives lineup:
- DC SN861 SSD: Engineered for fast checkpointing and caching, this PCIe Gen 5 SSD is tailor-made for AI model training run checkpointing. Offering up to 16 TB capacity across E1.S, E3.S, and U.2 formats, the SN861 promises unparalleled performance with up to 3x random read performance increase compared to its predecessors. Sampling of the E1.S version is already underway, with the U.2 model set to follow suit in July and volume shipments expected in the third quarter.
- DC SN655 SSD: Addressing the high-capacity SSD requirement, Western Digital has expanded its PCIe Gen 4-connected SN655 SSD to support an impressive 64 TB capacity using TLC NAND in a U.3 format. Sampling is currently ongoing, with further details slated for release later this year.
- DC HC690 HDD: Building upon its existing SMR technology, Western Digital has boosted the capacity of its HC680 series from 28 to 32 TB. Featuring a ten-platter design utilizing shingled magnetic media (SMR) with OptiNAND energy-assisted PMR (ePMR) and triple-stage actuator (TSA) in a helium-filled enclosure, the HC690 HDD ensures enhanced performance and reliability. Notable features include the ArmorCache write cache data safety feature.
This latest announcement sees Western Digital aligning itself with industry trends, positioning itself as a frontrunner in AI-optimized storage solutions. With these innovative offerings, Western Digital aims to empower businesses across diverse sectors to unlock the full potential of AI technologies.
Conclusion:
Western Digital’s strategic move to introduce AI-optimized storage solutions marks a significant advancement in the market. With the unveiling of the AI Data Cycle framework and the launch of innovative SSDs and HDD, Western Digital solidifies its position as a leader in catering to the evolving needs of AI-driven industries. This initiative is poised to drive substantial growth opportunities for Western Digital, enabling businesses to harness the full potential of AI technologies while ensuring enhanced performance, scalability, and efficiency in their storage infrastructure.
