Introduction
Mushkin has been around for many years as a leader in DDR memory solutions, so it's not a surprise that they are also heavily involved with SSDs and other types of flash storage. Being based in the United States, they pride themselves for the excellent performance and reliability of their products.
Their value-oriented Chronos 240 GB SSD is built around a SandForce SF-2281 controller and comes in capacities of 60, 120, 180, 240, and 480 GB. So no matter your requirements, the right size will be available.
Today, we are testing the Mushkin Enhanced Chronos 240 GB (not the Deluxe version).
Specifications: Mushkin Chronos 240 GB |
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Brand: | Mushkin |
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Model: | Chronos 240 GB |
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Controller: | SandForce SF-2281 |
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Flash Type: | Rebranded Toshiba-TH50 MLC, 19 nm PF556 AL |
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Form Factor | 2.5" |
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Capacity | 240 GB (223.6 GB usable) 16 GB overprovisioning |
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Interface: | SATA 6 Gbps |
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Firmware: | 5.04 |
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TRIM supported: | Yes |
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NCQ supported: | Yes |
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Warranty: | 3 Years |
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Packaging
You will receive:
- The SSD
- 3.5" mounting kit
- Screw package
The Drive
The drive conforms to the dimensions set forth by the 2.5" form factor. It is made of metal, which improves its durability.
Like most recent SSDs, the Mushkin Chronos uses the SATA 6 Gbps interface. It is compatible with any older SATA standard, but will, in such a case, work at reduced performance.
You will find the SSD controller and just four flash chips on the PCB. You can see the solder pads for additional chips, but my guess is the drive's whole capacity has been consolidated into four chips to reduce cost. Fewer chips mean less channels for the flash controller to use at the same time, which may affect performance.
Mushkin uses a SandForce SF-2281 controller on their drive.
The four flash chips seem to be rebranded Toshiba chips, but sources online say they've seen other chips as well.