Introducing Stealth’s New Solid State Drives (SSD)
Rugged, Fast, No Moving Parts, Highly Reliable

SSD is the acronym for Solid State Drive. SSD’s are highly reliable storage devices that use solid-state memory (NAND Flash) to store data. Stealth Computer SSD products emulate a standard 2.5″ mobile hard drive and are a direct, no fuss plug-in replacement.

Typical capacities of SSD’s are currently 32GB, 64GB, 128GB and 256GB. Stealth offers SSD in two technologies, MLC and SLC. Please see our knowledge base to help you decide on the best SSD for your application Single Level Cell (SLC) or Multi Level Cell (MLC).

Justifying the use of SSD technology in today’s computer applications has become easy when you consider the benefits and features achieved. Stealth’s new Solid State Drives (SSD) are available in all Stealth products including Rack PC/Servers, LittlePCs, Panelmounts, rugged Portable PCs or you can purchase them as standalone devices directly from our on-line store at StealthDirect.com.

Contact us today to discuss your application with one of our product specialists. Toll Free: 1-888-STEALTH (1-888-783-2584) or order online and receive Free Shipping from our new secure e-commerce website, StealthDirect.com.

What are the advantages of Solid State Drives?:

• Cutting Edge Storage Performance
• Rugged, No Moving Parts, Highly Reliable
• Easily Interchangeable with Existing Hard Drives
• Extreme Read/Write Speeds in excess of 200MB/s
• Wide Temperature Ranges 0-70°C
• High Shock, Vibration and Altitude Ranges
• Operates in High EMI or Electric Magnetic Interference
• Silent (No Noise) and Lightweight
• Energy Efficient Low Operational Power
• Faster Application Launch Times
• 2.5″ Size Replaces Standard hard drives
• Available in sizes from 32GB to 256GB capacities

For More Information on Stealth’s Solid State Drives:

• Datasheet with full detailed specifications
• Stealth’s Knowledge base article on Solid State Drives
• Pricelist – Get pricing and buy online from our new e-commerce website, stealthdirect.com

What is a SSD (Solid State Drive)?

SSD is the acronym for Solid State Drive. SSD’s are highly reliable storage devices that use solid-state memory to store data. An SSD emulates a hard disk drive and is available in the typical interfaces IDE, SATA or SCSI.

Solid State Drives can withstand extreme shock, vibration, temperature, altitude and harsh environmental conditions while operating without compromising on data integrity. Since there are no moving parts involved, data access time occurs as quickly as 0.1ms compared to typical consumer hard drives with spinning disks that can take 10-15ms, on average.

Standard models operate in temperatures of 0 – 70° C. and special industrial models can withstand operating temperatures of -40 – 85° C. SSD’s are the same size and shape as traditional desktop hard drives (available in 1.8-inch, 2.5-inch, and 3.5-inch form factors) and utilize the same connectors making them easy to install in traditional PC based equipment.

What is the difference between SLC and MLC Solid State Drives?

There are two types of NAND Flash chips available in Solid State Drives. Single-level cell (SLC) and multi-level cell (MLC). Both are similar in design and even look the same but their differences are quite significant.

What is SLC?
Single Level Cell (SLC) flash outperforms Multi Level Cell (MLC) flash.

What is MLC?
Multi Level Cell (MLC) flash has low cost benefits, but performs at slower speeds.

Advantages of SLC over MLC

• SLC flash accesses and writes to the NAND flash chips much faster, by using “simpler” control logic with 1 bit versus the 2 bits used by MLC flash.
• The program operations in SLC chips last 100,000 cycles, ten times longer than MLC.
• At a first glance the SLC drives appear to be much more expensive than MLC. However, when you consider the increased performance, higher reliability and increased lifespan the aggregate cost is much lower for the SLC based units.

Advantages/Disadvantages of SLC and MLC based Solid State Drives

Features	SLC	MLC
High Density	Lower Capacities	Higher Capacities
Low Cost per Bit	Higher than MLC	Lower Cost
Endurance	100,000 cycles	10,000 cycles
Operating Temperature Range	(industrial, more rugged)	(commercial, less rugged)
Low Power Consumption	Low Power Better Performance	Not as efficient as SLC
Write/Erase Speeds	Best Performance	Not as good as SLC
Write/Erase Endurance	Best Performance	Not as good as SLC
Density	16Mbit	32Mbit/64Mbit
Block Size	64Kbyte	128Kbyte
Architecture	x8	x8 / x16

The above performance factors make SLC based Solid State Drives an excellent fit for mission critical and important applications where reliability, performance and long term support are desired. MLC based Solid State Drives are ideal for applications that are not as critical and where saving costs is a tradeoff for a bit less performance and long term reliability.

* Images courtesy of Toms Hardware

Solid State Drives (SSD) both MLC and SLC are optionality available in all our Stealth Computer products, click below to view products or contact us for more information.

• Mini PCs / Little PCs
• Rack PC Servers
• Panelmount Computers
• Rugged Portable Computers

For More Information on Stealth’s Solid State Drives:

• Datasheet with full detailed specifications
• Pricelist – Get pricing and buy online from our new e-commerce website, stealthdirect.com

Flashback – 2009 Year in Review
Special Discount Offer & New Products Released in 2009

It’s hard to believe that 2009 is almost over (thank goodness) and what a whirlwind of a year it has been!

For many, it has been the most economically challenging year since the depression of the 1930’s. It was the type of year where we had to kick-in to overdrive and thrust ahead with tremendous optimism. We made up our minds early on to forge our way through the downturn by getting closer to our customers, releasing a myriad of exciting new products, and keep our staff engaged and focused with no layoffs.

So we are happy to celebrate thriving in 2009, and would like to thank you for your great support and confidence in us.

In celebration (yup – here’s the sales pitch part) we are offering a 10% discount off any of the new products we released in 2009 up until the end of December 2009. So take advantage of a deal on a Fanless PC, Rugged Notebook, High Bright LCD or a Waterproof Computer. Just mention our promo 10-For-Year-End and save.

Yes we are doing the social media thing too and you can find us on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and our StealthBLOG for up to date information. Stealth follows a strict privacy policy and we do not sell, rent or share your private information with anyone. We thank you for your time and continued support and of course always welcome your feedback.

p.s. Oh and we almost forgot … we are happy to announce we just turned 19 years old this past month – how time flies when you’re having fun. : )

November
	Our New Slim Fanless Rack Computers Space Saving, 2U, Noise Free Rackmount PC/Server Fanless by design, Stealth’s fanless rack PC is available in single or dual system designs all built-in to a slim 3.5″ high (2U) rack mountable steel chassis with locking front door. Stealth’s SR-2625F is a noise free rackmount Server/PC engineered with powerful Intel Core 2 Duo processors. Datasheet Pricelist – Single System Pricelist – Dual System
September
	Introducing our New Fanless Mini PC with Removable Hard Drive and Compact Flash The Stealth LPC-395F is a fanless noise free computer that utilizes Intel’s ATOM processor technology that offers plenty of horsepower without sacrificing energy efficiencies. Unique to the LPC-395F mini PC is the front loaded removable media slots for both Hard Drive and Compact Flash. Datasheet Pricelist
August
	Stealth Computer Releases their latest Notebook Warrior PC A Hybrid Rugged Notebook/Tablet Computer The all-new Stealth NW-2000 Rugged Hybrid PC provides the ultimate in mobile flexibility with the ability to quickly transform from a rugged notebook PC into a rugged Tablet PC. The Stealth rugged machine is built to handle demanding applications by meeting MIL-STD-810F specifications. Datasheet Pricelist
July
	Stealth’s Atom Powered Low-Cost Mini PC Low Cost – High Performance Mini PC. Not every application demands higher-end computational performance. The new Stealth LPC-385 small form PC offers a tremendous price-performance value in a robust little package. Datasheet Pricelist
June
	Stealth Computer Releases a Rugged Waterproof Fanless PC for Extreme Environments Sealed to IP67/NEMA 6 specifications. The new Stealth WPC-500F is a rugged PC that is completely water-tight, surviving liquids, chemicals, dust and dirt intrusion and meeting IP67/NEMA 6 environmental specifications. Datasheet Pricelist Witness the fully operational WPC-500F getting drenched in water while running.
April
	Introducing Our: High Bright LCD Monitor Family High Brightness, Sunlight Readable Monitors Stealth High Bright LCD monitors are designed to operate in extreme ambient light conditions. Our sunlight readable LCD’s outperform standard LCD’s that wash out in direct and indirect sunlight conditions. Products Overview Pricelist
March
	Stealth.Com Releases a Powerful Rugged Fanless Mini PC Fanless by design, Stealth’s new LPC-625F Fanless Mini PC operates without noisy cooling fans that can draw in dirt and dust causing potentially catastrophic failures. The highly reliable LPC-625F small PC is designed in a rugged extruded aluminum chassis that provides superior heat dissipation. Datasheet Pricelist
March
	Stealth Introduces a Water Resistant, Sunlight Readable, 8.4″ Rugged LCD Monitor for Demanding Applications Stealth’s Model: TT-840 is an 8.4″ high performance rugged LCD designed to survive demanding work environments. The sunlight readable, high brightness LCD is encapsulated in a rugged aluminum enclosure that has been sealed to IP68/NEMA 6P specifications making it totally water-tight. Power, Video and USB connections are provided through IP68 water-proof connectors directly on the unit. Datasheet Pricelist
February
	Stealth Computer Announces Company Rebranding and Domain Name Change to Stealth.Com Inc. Stealth Computer Corporation is pleased to announce that they are adopting Stealth.Com Inc. as their new corporate name. The Stealth.Com name change better reflects the company’s brand and establishes prominent brand identity as a leading manufacturer of Industrial Rugged and specialized computer products. Stealth.com Website
January
	Introducing the New: LPC-650 Series LittlePC, Our Fastest Mini PC Ever! The new Stealth LPC-650 small form PC offers tremendous power in a tiny package that measures 6.5″ x 6″ and less than 2″ tall. Engineered with the latest Intel Core 2 Duo processor, you’ll experience blazing speed performance that will handle your most processor intense applications. Datasheet Pricelist

Windows 7 is now shipping on Stealth machines

Stealth.Com Inc. (Stealth Computer) is pleased to announce the availability of Windows 7 for presale starting today.

Systems are expected to begin shipping with Windows 7 on 10/30/2009.

Place your order now to ensure an early spot in our queue!

Billed as the “The Embedded Technology Gateway”, Stealth Computer was on hand as an exhibitor at the RTECC (Real-Time & Embedded Computing Conference) show in Toronto on September 15, 2009.

Stealth was showcasing our latest products across our entire product line including mini pc’s, rugged lcd monitors, rugged keyboards, fanless pc’s & rugged portable computers.

——

Website – RTECC (Real-Time & Embedded Computing Conference)

The all-new Stealth NW-2000 Rugged Hybrid PC provides the ultimate in mobile flexibility with the ability to quickly transform from a rugged notebook PC into a rugged Tablet PC. The Stealth rugged machine is built to handle demanding applications by meeting MIL-STD-810F specifications.

Encapsulated in a light-weight magnesium alloy chassis with IP54 level protection the Stealth Notebook Warrior is ideal for both field and plant environments.

Features:

• Feature Packed Hybrid Mobile Machine
  Converts from Notebook PC to Tablet PC quick and easy
• Rugged, light-weight magnesium alloy chassis
• 13.3″ Sunlight Viewable LCD TFT Display
• Resistive Touchscreen & Pen input w/stylus
• Backlit keyboard for night use
• Fingerprint recognition security sensor
• Shock Resistant Removable Hard Drive
• Built-in WiFi, Bluetooth, LAN, Modem
• Meets MIL-STD-810F, shock & vibration
• IP54/NEMA13 environmentally protected

For more information on the NW-2000:

• Datasheet with full detailed specifications
• Pricelist – Get an online customized quote

Mobile LittlePCs – Shipping Now!

We are pleased to announce the release our new Mobile Mini PCs with DC Power Input.

Stealth’s rugged mobile or in-vehicle PC’s are small form factor (SFF) computers that are designed for demanding mobile applications. Stealth’s in-vehicle PC operates with a 10-16VDC power input and includes a user selectable power up/down control. A lower powered Fanless model is also available.

Features:

• 10-16 VDC Operation, ideal for mobile
  (with lockable connection)
• Start Up / Shut Down Delay Feature
  (User Selectable Settings)
• Click here for the Mobile Features FAQ
• Powerful Intel Core 2 Duo Processors
  and Fanlesss, No noise configurations
• Solid State Hard Drives (SSD) optional
• Small Rugged Size for Easy Deployment
• Built-in Gigabit LAN, USB, Firewire,
• Audio, Serial, Video (16×9 Capability)

Model: LPC-450M – Mobile LittlePC Datasheet
Model: LPC-450FM – Mobile Fanless LittlePC Datasheet

Pricelist: LPC-450M – Click here to get an Online Customized Quote
Pricelist: LPC-450FM – Click here to get an Online Customized Quote

We have released our latest version of StealthBox called the StealthBox-Slim. For many years Stealth has built highly customizable computer workstations designed for people who require the power and expansion capability of a desktop PC in a portable package.

Today, many applications have migrated too much smaller devices however there are still many applications that require the benefits and features of a multi-slot portable PC.

StealthBOX-Slim is a high performance, rugged portable PC with built-in PCI expansion slots and removable storage options. The StealthBOX concept fills a niche by providing performance and expansion capability not found in Notebook and Laptop PCs.

The following are example applications that StealthBOX has been used in:

Over the years Stealth Computer has integrated WD or Western Digital Raptor hard drives into some of our high performance machines. Customers that perform video/audio editing, code compiling and other disk intensive applications easily benefit from the performance gains.

Western Digital is back with a new, ground-up design dubbed the “VelociRaptor.” The drive has a pretty unique and rugged appearance. It is a 2.5 inch drive integrated into a cast metal 3.5” enterprise class mounting frame which acts to dissipate heat. The marketing folks at WD are calling it “the world’s fastest SATA hard drive”. They claim the 300GB drive to be 35% faster then its previous fastest model.

Specs: 10,000 RPM, SATA 3 GB/s interface and a 16 MB cache

We have not had the opportunity to get our hands on one of these babies yet however they are expected to ship later this month.

For the Western Digital Product overview Click Here

Yesterday Microsoft announced it is delaying the release of Windows XP Service Pack 3 due to a newly uncovered glitch.

Microsoft said there is a “compatibility issue” between the XP service pack and Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management System, a retail chain management program for small and midsize businesses.

Microsoft has finalized the code for release for SP3 last week and had planned to make it available starting April 29^th..

“In order to make sure customers have the best possible experience, we have decided to delay releasing Windows XP SP3 to Windows Update and Microsoft Download Center,” the company said in a statement.

The delay is expected to be a very short one; however it does add to the list of delays experienced as far back as 2006.

Seagate announced today that it is the first company to have shipped 1 Billion hard drives. This would equate to about 79 million terabytes or 158 billion hours of digital video or 1.2 trillion hours of tunes. Seagate has said it took 29 years to reach the 1 billion milestone, however its next billion in less than five years away. Digital content has exploded in recent years creating a huge growth in demand for storage.

Well its patch Tuesday, so if you will excuse us we have to download the latest XP updates.

News Release

Flash based hard drives are being offered on a regular basis now from the top tier notebook manufacturers. There have been lots of recent reports saying that the failure rates have been extremely high with a 20 to 30% return rate.

Stealth has been providing flash based solid state drive solutions for more than 10 years. It has been our experience that the drives we have used have had extremely low failure rates. In fact it is rare that we ever see any returns at all.

So what is happening?

Although we don’t have actual manufacturing data regarding the failures, it is our opinion that the returns are a result of performance versus costs issues. SSD options are not cheap and if your expectation is that your OS will boot up in a few seconds then you are in for a huge disappointment.

Over the years Stealth Computer has supplied many customers with solutions utilizing integrated solid state drive technology. SSD’s are always chosen based on the actual needs and demands of the application itself. Extreme shock and vibration, extended temperature ranges and the ability to operate in strong magnetic fields are ideal reasons on why a Solid State Drives should be specified and deployed. Not because they have become the latest gadget to have.

See the Stealth Computer FAQ on SSD

Microsoft releases SP1 and here are the release notes – that have been anticipated for while now.

They are mostly bug fixes and performance tweaks, but the sheer volume of them is certainly something to behold.

SP1 includes 23 security updates and 550 hotfixes resulting in a 434.5MB download (726.5MB for the 64-bit version).

SP1 is available for download now via Microsoft’s sites, with an auto-update rollout scheduled for next month

Back in November, we donated an XO Laptop to a child in a developing country as part of the One Laptop Per Child (OLPC) project. The concept was to give one – get one free allowing us the opportunity to take a close look at this revolutionary PC. The ultimate goal is to get a low cost entry level machine into the hands of a child who normally would not have the opportunity.

As expected the notebook is extremely basic in design and performance. What did surprise us is just how rugged the construction is. We have seen expensive notebooks less sturdy then this little baby.

The LCD screen works in both direct sunlight and darkness. When compared to any entry level notebook the visuals do fall short in terms of viewing angles, contrast ratio, brightness and color. Overall the unit is pretty impressive when you weigh in the price vs. what you get. It certainly won’t provide any performance or productivity benchmarks however.

See the detailed review and inside look on the Notebookreview.com site

Specifications:

• Processor: 433MHz AMD Geode
• Display: 7.5″ LCD 1200×900 (black and white)/800×600 (color)
• RAM Memory: 256MB DDR333
• HD/Storage: 1GB Flash with SD Expansion slot
• Wireless: 802.11b/g and 802.11s Mesh
• Ports: 3 USB, Headphone, Microphone
• Battery: 3.1Ah 6.5v
• AC Adapter: 12VDC @1.42A, 100-240VAC
• Dimensions: 9.52 x 8.97 x 1.26″
• Weight: 3lbs 2.2oz, 1.4kg
• Price $400 with the “Give One, Get One” program ($200 per laptop)

For a more detailed review and tear down of the unit please check out Kevin O’Briens article on the Notebookreview.com site

Watch for the emergence of the new USB 3.0 standard to unfold in 2008.

Intel and partners plan to release a new version of the Universal Serial Bus technology in the first part of 2008 with a data transfer rate of 10 times as fast as the current USB 2.0.

The third-generation USB interconnect will transfer data at speeds up to 4.8Gbit/s, ten times faster than USB 2.0’s 480MBit/s. It will be backwards-compatible with USB 2.0, and the first USB 1.1

Presently most devices won’t require that much data transfer however as larger storage devices, flash readers and blue ray optical devices become more popular the need will arise.

For more information visit USB.org or the USB Wiki