NVDIMM

A non-volatile dual in-line memory module (NVDIMM) is a type of random-access memory for computers. Non-volatile memory is memory that retains its contents even when electrical power is removed, for example from an unexpected power loss, system crash, or normal shutdown. "Dual in-line" identifies the memory as using the DIMM package. NVDIMMs improve application performance,[1] data security, and system crash recovery time. They enhance solid-state drive (SSD) endurance and reliability.[2][3]

"Non-volatile" products may use volatile memory during normal operation and dump the contents into non-volatile memory if the power fails, using an on-board backup power source. Volatile memory is faster than non-volatile; it is byte-addressable; and it can be written to arbitrarily, without concerns about wear and device lifespan. However, including a second memory to achieve non-volatility (and the on-board backup power source) increases the product cost compared to volatile memory.

Types

There are three types of NVDIMM implementations by JEDEC Standards org:[4]

  • NVDIMM-F: DIMM with flash storage. System users will need to pair the storage DIMM alongside a traditional DRAM DIMM. NVDIMM-F has been available since 2014.
  • NVDIMM-N DIMM with flash storage and traditional DRAM on the same module. The computer accesses the traditional DRAM directly. In the event of a power failure, the module copies the data from the volatile traditional DRAM to the persistent flash storage, and copies it back when power is restored. It uses a small backup power source for this.
  • NVDIMM-P specifications will be released by JEDEC around 2018[5] It will allow storage inside computer main memory, using ReRAM technology, and a DDR5 interface. A NVDIMM-P has persistent DRAM, and can access external block-oriented (flash memory) drive for memory cache.

Non-Standard NVDIMM implementations:

  • NVDIMM-X: DDR4 DIMM with NAND Flash storage and volatile DRAM on the same module, developed by Xitore.

As of November 2012, most NVDIMMs used NAND flash as the non-volatile memory.[6] Emerging memory technologies aim to achieve NVDIMM without a cache or two separate memories. Intel and Micron have announced use of the 3D XPoint PCM technology in NVDIMM-F.[7] Sony and Viking Technology have announced an NVDIMM-N product based on the ReRAM technology.[8] In 2015, Samsung and Netlist announced a NVDIMM-P product, possibly based on Z-nand.[9]

Backup power

NVDIMMs evolved from the BBU (battery backed up) DIMM, which used a backup battery to sustain power to a volatile memory for up to 72 hours. However, batteries are disfavored in computer components because they have a limited lifespan, they may be regarded as hazardous waste, and they contain heavy metals which violate RoHS compliance.

When the module includes non-volatile memory, backup power is required for only a short time after the computer's main power fails, while the module copies the data from volatile to non-volatile memory. Therefore, modern NVDIMMs use on-board supercapacitors to store energy.

Interface

A few server vendors, such as Supermicro, still make products using the DDR3 interface to the computer, but standardization work in 2014 and 2015, such as at JEDEC[10] and ACPI,[11] was based on the DDR4 interface.

Uses

The BBU DIMM was originally designed for use as the cache of RAID HBAs (host bus adapters) or systems, to enable data in the cache to survive a power failure. NVDIMMs have moved beyond RAID applications into fast storage appliances or in-memory processing for the data center and cloud computing.[12]

See also

References

  1. ↑ "Whole-system Persistence with Non-volatile Memories". microsoft.com. Retrieved 2014-05-08.
  2. ↑ "The Bleak Future of NAND Flash Memory". microsoft.com. Retrieved 2014-05-08.
  3. ↑ "SSDs Risk Massive Data Loss". Storagenewsletter.com. 2013-03-11. Retrieved 2013-09-06.
  4. ↑ "Welcome to the era of NVDIMM Cards". plexistor.com. Retrieved 2015-08-23.
  5. ↑
  6. ↑ http://www.storage-switzerland.com/Blog/Entries/2012/10/2_Does_DRAM_Storage_Still_Make_Sense.html
  7. ↑ "Intels crazy fast 3D XPoint Optane memory heads for DDR slots but with a cache". PCWorld. Retrieved 2015-08-21.
  8. ↑ Gil Russell (11 August 2015). "Viking technology and Sony in ReRAM memory mashup". TechEye.net. Retrieved 2015-08-11.
  9. ↑ Netlist And Samsung Partner To Deliver NVDIMM-P
  10. ↑ "JEDEC announces support NVDIMM hybrid memory modules". JEDEC. Retrieved 2015-05-26.
  11. ↑ Michael Larabel. "ACPI 6 Non-Volatile Memory Device Support NFIT libND For Linux". Phoronix. Retrieved 2015-05-21.
  12. ↑ "John W. Verity - Non-Volatile DRAM Is Poised to Give Apps a Big Boost". Datacenter Acceleration. Retrieved 2013-09-06.
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