Machdyne’s FERRIT is a modular USB F-RAM storage device offering up to 256 MB capacity, ensuring data retention for up to 200 years with unlimited writes and high-radiation resistance. It expands on the earlier Blaustahl F-RAM storage device, which only had an 8KB capacity. FERRIT supports 8 MB to 256 MB storage by integrating up to 256 individual 16MB F-RAM ICs. The prototype is enclosed in a metal frame, resembling a traditional cluster solution.
FERRIT’s features include the following:
– FERRIT-CY controller using a Raspberry Pi RP2040 MCU with a USB-FS Type-C port.
– FERRIT-M8 removable memory cards up to 16MB capacity using 16x 1MB F-RAM ICs.
– FERRIT-16 backplane with slots for FERRIT-CY and 16x FERRIT-M8 connected via SPI/QSPI bus.
– Maximum capacity of 256 MB+ with up to 256 memory devices.
– Preserves data for up to 200 years, surpassing traditional storage media.
– Supports virtually unlimited write cycles.
– Radiation-resistant, maintaining data integrity in high-radiation environments.
– Host interface: USB-C Type-C, appearing as a mass storage device without special software requirements.
The German company suggests it’s perfect for critical documentation, historical records, cryptographic key storage, and archival collections. The project is open-source, with KiCad schematics, PCB layouts, C firmware, and documentation offered on GitHub under a “Lone Dynamics Open License.” Redistribution is allowed under specific conditions, primarily retaining the original copyright notice, conditions list, and disclaimer.
Currently, the memory modules are single-sided with eight 1MB F-RAM chips, limiting total memory to 128 MB. Dual-sided modules can increase this to 256 MB. The exact F-RAM chip model isn’t specified, but available data suggest using SOIC-16 parts. The MB85RQ8MXPF chip is a potential match, providing high endurance and long data retention but with reduced retention as temperatures rise.
The FERRIT doesn’t address previous concerns that elements like the Raspberry Pi RP2040 may not endure 200 years or that USB may become obsolete in over a century. However, it resolves the capacity issues of its predecessor. The system provides quasi-unlimited write cycles and long storage life, though whether it meets the 200-year full-system target is uncertain.
Prospective buyers can seek to reserve the FERRIT system. Pricing is determined by customer willingness to pay. For reference, the MB85RQ8MXPF chip is priced at $25.03 per unit, totaling approximately $6400 for 256 chips that comprise 256 MB of storage without additional elements like boards and chassis. Further details and reservation options are available on the product page.
Jean-Luc, who established CNX Software in 2010, initially part-time, expanded it to a full-time venture in 2011, providing daily news and reviews. Support CNX Software by donating via cryptocurrencies or becoming a Patron on Patreon, or by purchasing through Amazon or Aliexpress. Affiliate links in articles may earn commissions.