TRIM, Conclusion, Pricing, and Final Thoughts
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TRIM:

TRIM and fragmentation over time performance was identical to that in our last OCZ RevoDrive. Sandforce controllers behave extremely well on random writes, even in the face of heavy fragmentation. The big advantage of SandForce controlled flash is its excellent handling of fragmentation. Even without TRIM at play, these chips can still maintain full write speeds after the most challenging write patterns have taken place.

Conclusion:

OCZ Ibis High Speed Data Link (HSDL) 240GB SSD Review - Storage 35
PROS: 
  • Another notch up from the already highly competitive RevoDrive. 
  • Good IOPS scaling at higher queue depths.
  • HSDL link enables half height PCIe adapter (greater mounting flexibility for rack mount chassis). 
CONS: 
  • Cost/GB still up there, but improving.
  • HSDL cabling may be confused with mini-SAS cabling unless clearly marked.

Pricing:     

OCZ Ibis introductory pricing is as follows:
  • OCZ3HSD1IBS1-960G $2799 ($2.92/GB)
  • OCZ3HSD1IBS1-720G $2149 ($2.98/GB)
  • OCZ3HSD1IBS1-480G $1299 ($2.71/GB)
  • OCZ3HSD1IBS1-360G $1099 ($3.05/GB)
  • OCZ3HSD1IBS1-240G $739   ($3.08/GB)
  • OCZ3HSD1IBS1-160G $629   ($3.93/GB)
  • OCZ3HSD1IBS1-100G $529   ($5.29/GB)
The pricing spike at lower capacities likely reflects the added cost of the HSDL components. Shipments are expected *soon*.

Final Thoughts:

OCZ took their already excellent RevoDrive, kicked the performance up even further, and externalized it using an entirely new type of interface. The Ibis is a well executed demonstration of how excellent bang for the buck can be achieved with a unique mixing of pre-existing physical standards.

But…

While I love sinking my teeth into new technology just as much as any other die hard enthusiast, I can’t help but wonder if HSDL will really catch on. The cabling matches that used by SASS RAID soltions, but is not electrically compatible with HSDL. This potentially adds a layer of end-user confusion that might lead to roadblocks in adoption by OEM’s.
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