Although long known as a RAM producer, Micron has only just introduced its first SSD flash drives, the RealSSD line. Coming in 1.8- and 2.5-inch sizes, the drives are limited to 32 or 64GB capacities, but bring with them a few distinguishing traits. They use a native SATA II interface instead of a bridge chip for example, and can be removed from a computer without turning off power beforehand. They also consume a mere 2W when active, and less when idling or in standby. Plastic casing is said to cut weight by at least 50 percent over similar-sized HDDs.

The drives are expected to begin production in the first quarter of 2008. Also in development are 1 to 8GB drives meant to be embedded into USB interfaces -- allowing servers and industrial computers, for instance, to fit an entire operating system in the smallest possible space. Companies will also be able to order modules in different sizes with custom form factors.