Intel promises fix for 320-series SSD errors
updated 12:40 am EDT, Tue August 16, 2011
Intel: Firmware update promised in two weeks
Intel is promising a fix for its 320-series SSD drives within two weeks, in the form of a firmware update. Macworld reported today that the chipmaker has isolated the issue that saw a number of the 320-series solid state drives fail after a power outage, resulting in a Bad Context 13x Error. The firmware fix promises to avoid future issues but will not recover lost data for owners currently suffering from the issue. Intel has come under fire for its slow response to the issue, which was first reported months ago and acknowledged by Intel in late July.
Intel is recommending current owners take care to shut down their computers carefully and not cut power to a computer running the 320 SSD as well as recommending frequent backups.
Currently the primary fix has been to fully wipe the SSD with a secure erase, which destroys any data on the drive. Intel has also replaced disks for a number of customers. As all the solutions involve losing any data on the disks; back-up becomes even more necessary for current users. The firmware is currently in final validation testing according to Intel, which promised a two-week timeframe but did not specify a date for the release.
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Intel has come under fire for its slow response to the issue, which was first reported moths ago and acknowledged by Intel in late July.
This is the Apple way. Don't say anything until you can 'confirm' the problem, then tell people you'll have a fix out 'at some point'. Blame the rest on the user.