I reported in an early blog post that I foresaw computers with less moving parts. Flash memory, like those used in geek sticks, stores information faster. Unfortunately there is a limit to the number of times you can write to flash memory. Using a technology called load leveling, flash memory makers are designing hard drive replacements that have no moving parts. Here is a picture of a TDK designed 32GB drive. This drive has a standard IDE interface (just like older hard drives!) and can be hooked up in almost any PC. They are expensive right now ($500), but I see prices coming down as more are made. Notebook computers look to be the first place you'll see them. No moving parts for better reliability, better speed, less heat and very light weight will make this technology a winner!
Geek sticks (USB Flash memory drives) are also getting bigger. Standard size now is 2GB with 4GB and 8 GB drive available. The larger sized drives aren't as cost competitive as the 2GB price point, but they too will get reasonable as production ramps up.
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